…at International Volunteers Day parade
Over 1000 representatives from various local and international organisations Saturday participated in a national parade in observance of International Volunteers Day 2010.
This year the event was celebrated worldwide in expression of appreciation for the contribution made by volunteers and its impact on human development in countries where they work. Minister of Labour, Manzoor Nadir, performing the duties of Minister of Foreign Affairs Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, in her absence, highlighted the importance and significance of volunteerism, especially in developing countries and those affected by disasters.
He stated that the parade is in support of volunteerism and is aimed also at increasing awareness of the programme.
He commended the volunteers for their resourcefulness in helping people, especially those affected by tragedy such as the earthquake in Haiti and the Pakistan flood.
He further added that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government is in full support of volunteerism and the country has had a long tradition of volunteerism.
United Nations Development Programme Officer, Meguni Ito, also emphasised the importance of volunteerism and lauded the participants for becoming involved in the exercise. She said it is a day when volunteers celebrate themselves for the hard work they do to promote development.
Phillipino volunteer Renato Gonzalez, who is involved in organisational development, said he believes in the power of human beings to promote development in any part of the world and he is happy to be volunteering in Guyana.
Shameit Bali, a United Kingdom volunteer, said that although many volunteers chose to work in Asia or Africa, he chose to come to Guyana because he believes he can be of, service to this country.
The parade, which started at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, South Road, was one of the many activities to celebrate International Volunteers Day.
Various youth groups, such as those from Diamond and Soesdyke on the East Bank Demerara also participated in the event. (GINA)