Latest update January 28th, 2025 12:59 AM
Oct 18, 2013 Sports
By Rawle Welch
Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, in delivering the feature remarks at the launching of the 53rd National Schools’ Cycling, Swimming and Track and Field Championships, highlighted the need for all to provide the platform for the youths of our society to become well-rounded individuals.
Manickchand, speaking yesterday at the occasion, said it is the clear view of the Ministry that the focus must not only be on students attaining high academic standards, but similar attention must be given to areas that could ensure that in addition to students doing well in the academic sphere, the other aspects to support the development of well-rounded citizens are not overlooked.
The Minister posited that to produce such an individual must not only be the sole responsibility of the Government, but also that of parents, teachers, the corporate community and other related organs within the society.
She said that the Ministry has been playing its part in leading the way to give every student a chance to become that individual and gave examples of the Spelling Bee and Elocution competitions as among some of the initiatives to have been undertaken.
Manickchand stated how happy she was with the turnout of officials directly related to the event, while also acknowledging the input of the business community, who she pointed out, have stepped up and honoured their corporate duty.
The Minister was adamant that the private, public partnership must continue, adding that such a joint venture is the best scheme to adequately serve the children’s interest.
She also spoke of the ongoing discussions between the Ministry and the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) pertaining to the best period to stage all the sports disciplines.
The Minister disclosed that the Ministry has budgeted between $10-15 million for the event, while GTU President Colin Bynoe revealed that the total expenditure to host the championships falls within the vicinity of $23 million.
Meanwhile, Bynoe in his presentation thanked the members of the business community who’ve been on board for some time now and those also who’re coming on board for the first time.
Special mention was extended to Digicel, who Bynoe referred to as being the leading entity in terms of sponsorship and support.
Banks DIH under its Malta brand, Courts (Guyana) Inc., Giftland Office Max under its Asics brands are also on board and are companies that have contributed significantly to the event.
Bynoe revealed that the championships will be held from November 19-22 at the National Stadium and took the opportunity to pay recognition to the overwhelming support that is always given by the Management and Staff of the facility.
He reminded that the event could not have been possible without the support of the business community.
Bynoe said it is the fervent hope of the Organisers that out of the Championships will come athletes with the potential to represent Guyana at the 2016 Olympics.
Region 4 Chairman Clement Corlette in brief remarks said that the body was extremely proud that the Championships is being held once again in the Region, adding that they are looking forward to giving a good account of themselves and preparations to do so has started.
He closed by wishing that the Championships is rewarding and successful.
Digicel Sponsorship & Events Manager Gavin Hope in his remarks spoke of the Company’s steadfast commitment to the event which according to him is in its third year, while disclosing the overriding factor for their involvement.
According to him, the Company is all about the development of young people and the mere fact that they are involved is testimony to that vision.
He said he is glad that the National Stadium was chosen and is keenly looking forward to four days of keen competition among the best young athletes in the country.
He too echoed similar sentiments offered by Manickchand about the importance of parents being involved in the children’s development.
Among the other influential officials that were present yesterday were Digicel Head of Marketing Jacqueline James, Ministry of Education CEO Olato Sam, GTU Field Officer Lance Baptiste, Deputy Chief Education Officer/Administration Donna Chapman, Banks DIH Non-Alcoholic Manager Clayton McKenzie and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education Delma Nedd.
Jan 28, 2025
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