THE Region 2 administration has released its programme of activities for Mash celebrations. According to the programme, the Department of Education will kick off Mash celebrations on Monday, January 23, with its colourful Dramatic Poetry and Calypso competitions. Reports from the Education Department said preparations are in progress, and students from nursery, primary and secondary schools across the region are expected to participate in the various competitions, which will be held on 23rd, 25th and 27th January at the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground.
Meanwhile, Regional Development Officer, Mr Dhaneshwar Gangoo, the Coordinator for Mash celebrations in Region Two, said preparations are in progress for the children’s Art, Essay, Debate and Impromptu Speech competitions.
Mr. Gangoo said the Best Neighbourhood Democratic Council competition is also in progress, and Amerindians of the nine communities will be involved in Mash activities that will focus on self-help work to clean and brighten their villages for the country’s republic anniversary.
He said other activities in the region will include Art gallery at the Anna Regina Town Hall, Differently-abled Competition, which will involve members of the Community-Based Rehabilitation Programme (CBR) of Queenstown, and Melody King and Queen competition  (English and Indian), along with the Best Decorated and Illuminated Building competition.
Mr Gangoo also reported that the flag-raising ceremony will be held on February 23, at 07:00 hrs at the Anna Regina Fire Station tarmac, and a grand colourful float parade and road show with revellers will be held on Republic Day on the roadway.
Several private businesses in the region are expected to participate in the float parade and road show.
A big cultural show will also be held on Mash Day at the Anna Regina Community Centre ground.