–to sustain development in Guyana via culture

THE Janus Cultural Policy Initiative (JCPI) project, which was initiated with the theme of ‘Culture and Development’ and which seeks to foster sustainable development in Guyana, has had an all-day pre-conference launch at the National Library Conference Room last Friday.The JCPI project, which is based in Georgetown, offers editorial consulting services, and publishing and public policy research and development. Project leader Ruel Johnson, speaking about the initiative, underscored that “culture, in all its dimensions is a fundamental component of sustainable development…” and by means of consolidation, there is refinement followed by the usage of arts and skills, which will then lead to creative industries. Hence there will be sustainable development in Guyana via culture and development.

Johnson further emphasized, sourcing from UNESCO, that this sector is one of activity via both perceptible and impalpable heritage, artistic industries, and various forms of inventive expressions, since culture is a dominant supplier to economic development, social stability and environmental protection.

The conference accommodated various aspects on culture and development from prestigious speakers like Sara Bharrat, Ede Tyrell, Subraj Singh and Shameza David. They spoke on topics such as human and social development, culture and the environment, human rights and freedom in relation to culture, conflict and culture, and other scenarios that would enhance cultural development in Guyana in the most theoretical and practical ways.

The project seeks to focus on the cornerstone of culture, hence with ‘Culture and Development’ being conquered, and with the audience incorporating their perceptions, August will feature ‘Culture and Ethnicity’; September will highlight ‘Our Cultural Heritage’; October will focus on ‘Culture and Human Rights’; November will stress on ‘Cultural and Creative Industries’; December will aim to tackle ‘Culture in Education’; and finally, consultations will be accommodated in January 2015.

The principle behind creation of the JCPI assumes that Guyana’s political and other challenges in development have their basis specifically in cultural divisions and ethno-politicization. It is believed that in order to seek sustainable and effective cultural solutions to the socio-political and developmental dilemma, it is vital to establish a ‘proper cultural policy environment.’

Therefore, the prime objective of the project is to establish a comprehensive and functional national cultural policy regime in Guyana.

(Shivanie Sugrim)