By Shirley Thomas

THE Nigerian Student Association of Guyana (NSAG) last Saturday hosted an exciting day of learning, caring and sharing with the children of Joshua House at their church’s Thomas Street residence, Georgetown, leaving them with a brand new perspective on life and empowered to play their part in shaping their own career paths.The visiting team comprised about 35 medical doctors and nurses in training at various universities in Guyana, with a passion for ministering to the needs of less fortunate children, who would,

from time to time visit and make donations to targeted cases.

This time around, the programme took a twist, beginning with a cheerful ‘getting-to-know-you’ exercise; after which the team conducted highly interactive health education sessions for them. Gifts were distributed to those correctly answering questions.

Chaired by newly installed President, Belemo Afenfia, the programme opened with the singing of ‘Jesus Loves the Little Children’ and ‘You are My Sunshine’. Outgoing President is Innocent Jarrel.

Topics covered included: Healthy Lifestyle Practice; Hygiene; environmental health; counselling on Self Esteem and ‘Saying No’ to alcohol and narcotics. Facilitators included: Ruby Reason Onya; Esther Ndibueze; Maximus Saloo; and Ebani Omamofe.

The day’s activities culminated in a gala, ‘Nigerian-style Party’ with lots to eat and drink; upbeat Nigerian music and games such as ‘musical chairs’.

And not least, there was a huge mouth-watering birthday cake, specially baked by the medical team and beautifully iced green and white. It was prepared in honour of those persons who would have celebrated birthdays during the week.

It was a day well spent, with the members of the association teaming up with the staff of Joshua House and volunteers to provide quality service and cheer to the less fortunate children, who by the end of the day had learnt the importance of realizing their true potential, and setting high goals. Many of them are now aspiring to become doctors and soldiers.