ANOTHER World Challenge Day which was organised by Social Service of Commerce in Brazil in partnership with the Trim and Fitness International Sport for All Association (TAFISA) was observed on Wednesday at the Guyana National Stadium (GNS), Providence. Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCYS) Dr Frank Anthony made a countrywide plea to the citizens of Guyana to exercise more and alleviate the risks of developing non-communicable diseases.
Dr Anthony who is a strong advocate for the prevention of non-communicable diseases in Guyana, said too many Guyanese both young and old are overweight, giving rise to diabetes, hypertension and heart diseases, among others.
He emphasised that the time for talking is long gone, and declared that these diseases would not see a decline in numbers unless persons become active and adopt healthier life and eating practices.
He made a call on the persons present to exercise at least 30 minutes per day and they will be surprised to see the transformation it makes in extending their life while pointing out that parents can play a role in passing on healthy lifestyle tips to their children who he feels will embrace same if they see the adults trying to be healthy.
Prime Minister Hinds said he was pleased with the turnout of the schoolchildren, and pointed out that a healthy society will benefit the entire country.
He was also concerned with the alarming rate of non-communicable diseases among citizens, calling on the students to “develop the habit of various physical activities that will promote a healthy lifestyle”.
According to Director of Sport Neil Kumar, who, along with Prime Minister Hinds, Dr Anthony and Permanent Secretary within the MCYS, Alfred King, participated in the exercise programme. 25 000 students were invited to the event.
“I think the day has served its purpose and it’s good to see the enthusiasm of the kids. We also appreciate the fact that the Allied Arts Department of the Ministry of Education is looking to push sports in schools, which lines up with the vision of our ministry,” Kumar commented.