THE Indian Science and Technology Exhibition was officially declared open yesterday at the National Cultural Centre.
The exhibition which was also held in Trinidad and Tobago is a venture between the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport in collaboration with the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), Ministry of Culture, and Government of India. The High Commissioner of India to Guyana, Mr. Puran Mal Meena, noted that science has played a major role in shaping Indian culture and society. According to him, today India has one of the largest scientific and technical manpower in the world. He said that he believes that the exhibition will be of great benefit to the people of Guyana, particularly the students. Mr. Puran said that he hopes that persons will enjoy the exhibition, which showcases India’s contribution to science and technology, as much as they enjoy Bollywood movies.
After the opening ceremony at the National Cultural Centre, the audience stepped over to the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, where President Donald Ramotar declared the exhibition open, and himself along with other Government officials toured the exhibition site.
Director General of the NCSM India, Mr. G.S. Rautela, expressed gratitude to the Government of Guyana, particularly President Donald Ramotar and the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony, for making the exhibition come to fruition in such a short period of time. He also conveyed his appreciation to the Indian High Commission in Guyana for the support they extended to his team, during their execution of the plans for this very important project.
Mr. Rautela noted that India is well known for its rich and vibrant cultural diversity, and has made a very significant contribution to science and technology. This exhibition covers over 7,000 years of India’s history and the very diverse contributions the country has made to the global scientific arena, aiding in the understanding of the progress made in science and technology over the years. The Director General said that India has various scientific institutions and industries, and that the science and technology manpower is a force to be reckoned with.
According to him, master craftsmen will be at the exhibition to provide onsite demonstrations of some of India’s finest world renound craft technologies. Mr. Rautela said that ‘science is fun’ and ‘learning is enjoyable’ are some of the key words for twenty five of the attractive exhibits. He noted that he looks forward to further relations between India and Guyana that will strengthen their relationship and aid in the development of both countries, while benefitting its people.
The exhibition will be held up until the 30th September, and showcases approximately 150 exhibits, along with daily science demonstrations, shows and cultural performances for the Guyanese viewing public. It will be opened Monday to Friday- 10:00am- 7:00pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 2:00 pm- 8:00 pm at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, Homestretch Avenue. Based on research, this is the first known exhibition of its kind in Guyana.