-book launched to preserve country’s history
THE National Trust of Guyana, in collaboration with the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo),  celebrated International Day for Monuments and Sites on Friday last under the theme, “Agricultural Heritage”.

At the event, a booklet titled “Monuments and Sites in Guyana” was launched at the National Cultural Centre.

International Day for Monuments and Sites provides the opportunity to raise awareness among Guyanese about the diversity of the world’s heritage and the efforts that are required to protect and conserve it.

Chief Executive Officer of National Trust, Nirvana Persaud, said  Guyana’s heritage is based mainly on plantation agriculture which expanded during the period of industrialisation.

This contributed to the historic character of the cities, towns and villages and the old buildings on sites that all form Guyana’s rich and diverse heritage.

Persaud noted that the exhibition is aimed at showcasing  the evolution of the sugar industry from past to present and will provide viewers with a conceptual link with the agricultural heritage and the day for monuments and sites.

“Without a heritage there is not identity,” Persaud said.

Chief Executive Officer of GuySuCo, Errol Hanoman said it was a great pleasure to reflect on the sugar industry, the nation’s main socio-economic and agricultural heritage.

Hanoman noted that the contribution of the industry to Guyana has been immeasurable and that its evolution over 300 years ago to present reflects progression from slavery and indentureship to workers’ empowerment, nationalisation and modernisation. 

Some of the monuments in Guyana represent the direct struggle for existence and recognition and a source of inspiration for the future and its developments.

Director of Culture, Dr. James Rose officially launched the publication entitled, “Monuments and Sites in Guyana,” which contains over 100 Monuments, including the 1763 monument and the New Amsterdam Hospital.

The National Trust’s mission is to target monuments, which are part of the nation’s heritage and must be protected and promoted since they belong to all Guyanese.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Alfred King, who formally declared the exhibition opened, said monuments represent the common struggle, purpose and achievements of fellow Guyanese.

King noted that the book will enlighten both the current and future generations of students.

The idea of an International Day for Monuments and Sites was made a reality in 1983 when it was approved by the UNESCO General Conference, which passed a resolution at its 22nd session in November declaring April 18, each year, International Monuments and Sites Day. (GINA)

PHOTO saved in Graphics file as Museum Day
CAPTION: Students observe the operations displayed at GuySuCo booth at the National Cultural Centre.