The National Trust of Guyana on Monday launched its annual Heritage Exhibition, under the theme, “Promoting Heritage, Fostering National Pride.”
The event is taking place at the Technical and Vocational Training Centre, Mahaicony, Region 5. Minister within the Ministry of Education, Department of Culture, Youth and Sport, Nicolette Henry, declared open the exhibition. In her address, Henry thanked the National Trust of Guyana for preserving and promoting national heritage and once again hosting the Exhibition. Minster Henry noted that heritage is the business of everyone. “This year’s theme of Promoting Heritage, Fostering National Pride, is indeed a fitting one at this time, as it not only encapsulates the diversity in our heritage and showcases what we ought to be proud of today, but it encourages us to respect and appreciate this rich national legacy, so that our present and future generations can learn from it, and sustain it with pride,” the minister said.
Henry also emphasised that all tangible and non-tangible aspects of Guyanese heritage are aimed at encouraging national pride. She pointed out that the national monuments play a big role in recognizing Guyana’s history, as they highlight the achievements of the Guyanese people. To this end, the minister called on Guyanese to contribute to the preservation of their heritage in whatever way they can, while at the same time encouraging others to do the same. She asked Guyanese to join in the celebration of the country’s 50th Independence anniversary, which comes up next year.
Minister Henry explained that the celebration is expected to last throughout the year 2016, and would be used to sensitise Guyanese about their rich and diverse heritage. Also speaking at the opening of the exhibition was Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of National Trust Guyana, Nirvana Persaud. Persaud pointed out that the exhibition is aimed at increasing heritage awareness in Guyana. She stated that, “No society could survive without the culture that defines its identity.”
Minister Henry urged members of the public to come out and view the exhibition, as they will be learning a lot about the Guyanese heritage. The Heritage Exhibition remains open until October 2, 2015. Henry noted that due to the number of schools, rehabilitation of the sports facilities in schools will definitely have to be done in phases. She added, “There is a ground enhancement project which will see schools in each of the regions being rehabilitated to the extent that we can have sports activities occurring on the grounds.”
Henry said that her ministry is currently in the process of identifying the schools that will be benefiting from the project this year. “We will continue this process until all the schools are fully functional with regards to having their grounds up and running” said Minister Henry. Director of Sports, Christopher Jones, pointed out that the National Sports Commission (NSC) is already in the process of identifying coaches for various disciplines. “Once we are ready to roll out that into the school’s curriculum, the National Sports Commission has within, personnel who can be sent to the various schools to aid with the process,” Jones stated. (GINA)