Minister of Sport keeps promise to Carifta athletes

Aug 07, 2022 Sports

A promise in an effort to make a dream an actuality, which was made by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Honourable Charles Ramson Jr to the 2022 Carifta Games athletes, was realized yesterday, as the Ministry played a fundamental role in the acquisition of scholarships for national athletes Adriel Austin, and Anisha Gibbons.

Sports Minister Charles Ramson Jr. (left) and Director of Sports Steve Ninvalle (right) meet with the 2022 Carifta Games athletes and their mothers.

Gibbons, who won gold in the Javelin at the prestigious championships held in Kingston, Jamaica, secured a studentship to New Mexico Junior College, USA. Similarly, bronze medalist Austin, will attend Hinds Community College in Mississippi, USA. Both scholarships are two years in duration, and will be partially funded by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.

Minister Ramson Jr during the feature address at the simple but significant press ceremony held at the entity’s main street headquarters, articulated that the marriage between academia and sporting excellence is the vision of his ministry, which aligns with the mantra of the Government of Guyana.

According to Ramson, who is an attorney-at-law by profession, the acquisition of the scholarships is an indication or signal that the athletes are on the pathway to advancement athletically, which is also conduit for the progression of their academics.

He pronounced, “I am using this portfolio and office that I have, to help young people to improve and advance their talents and education, which is something that I view and see as important. It is important for the vision and mission of the President.”

Ramson Jr disclosed, that he is also a product of the scholarship dogma, adding that the existence of such avenues and programmes are for top performers and “Once you do that you are a top performance and you have indicated that you possess this trait, more avenues will be opened and the road to greatness will be unlocked by you.”

He further added, “On behalf of his Excellency and the Government of Guyana and the people of Guyana, we want to say that we are so proud of you and wish you all the best.”

Similarly, Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle, uttered that the promise made by the Ministry via the Government of Guyana, highlights the value and importance in the development the country’s human capital, noting that the entity under the guidance and stewardship of Minister Ramson Jr, is action oriented, as evident by its continued commitment to athlete scholastic and athletic growth.

Meanwhile, Austin praised the Minister for ensuring that her dream and aspirations came to fruition, adding that she is eternally indebted for the opportunity to further her studies and improve athletically.

Likewise, Gibbons extolled Minister Ramson Jr, and the National Sports Commission for fulfilling their promise, which illustrates their objective and aim of developing a student athlete culture. “It is a dream which has now been realized which can aid in bettering myself academically and athletically”, she added.

Also, Joylyn Beaton, mother of Austin, showered praises on the Ministry for ensuring that the pledge was realized, adding that she is appreciative, as this opportunity provides the possibility for her daughter to evolve academically and competitively.

Additionally, Linda Johnny, mother of Gibbons, stated that she was overwhelmed by the acquisition of the scholarship which was made imaginable by Minister Ramson Jr, who kept this promise in ensuring that this dream became a reality.