EDUCATION Minister, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine declared the National Schools Physical Display Championships open yesterday, with over 500 children from primary and secondary schools across Guyana giving vibrant displays of gymnastic talent.The event, which was established in 1992 for the Children’s Mashramani celebrations, was staged yesterday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
Dr. Roopnaraine noted that this year, a lot of energy will be focused on the upcoming celebration of Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary in May 2016.
“Next year,” he said, “we are going to be placing a lot of emphasis on Independence celebrations, this is not to downplay Mashramani but we are going to concentrate most of our energy on Independence.”
NATIONAL RECONCILIATION
In addressing his intentions as the newly-appointed Minister of Education, Dr. Roopnaraine said that under his leadership, he intends, through the Ministry of Education and particular programmes, to bring about a “national reconciliation”.
In this light, he wants to ensure that the rest of the population who did not vote for the new government would feel free to participate in the programmes and developments cultivated by the new administration.
Dr. Roopnaraine noted that former Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand had made a good start in the Ministry of Education. He said that he intends to continue with all the programmes that worked well by intensifying them and adjusting and fixing those programmes that are not functioning well enough.
In relation to the gymnastic event, he noted that the activity is a test for coordination, integration and real physical skills which are all vital for development in children. He then advised the children on seeking the right academic path as he assured that he will continue to host such programmes to benefit their welfare.
“This activity is believed to be very crucial to children’s development and is an essential instrument which we are going to use in uniting and building our country,” said Dr. Roopnaraine.
The event yesterday saw unique jump-rope activities and other fitness displays from all the participating schools.
The objectives of the exercise are to expand the scope of Physical Education in schools; promote good sportsmanship among students and teachers; display the talents of children of primary and secondary schools from all Regions; and to commemorate the 49th Independence Anniversary of Guyana through expressive arts. The coordinating team this year is the Unit of Allied Arts.
The activity will conclude today at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. (Shivanie Sugrim)
