DUBBED Child Protection as everybody’s business, the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) commenced a series of Cricket West Indies (CWI)/UNICEF Child Protection courses, yesterday at the GCB’s boardroom.
Intended to target individuals who interact with children on a regular basis, a number of Cricket Guyana Inc.-contracted and academy players, along with current national coaches and assistant coaches/managers were present.

The facilitators for the session were Taaliba Speede of the Child Care and Protection Agency and Nicholas Fraser of the Education Ministry’s Allied Arts Unit.
In an invited comment after the session, Speede emphasised that the safety and welfare of children must be everybody’s business.

To this end, she called on the participants to contribute towards the protection of children and the creation of a safe and secure environment, which is everybody’s responsibility.
“The Ministry of Social Protection – Child Care and Protection Agency is fully aware that Child Protection must be everybody’s business, and so having this initiative in getting the Child Care and Protection Agency involved in cricketing, which is very good. We will be able to enhance and empower the cricketers and coaches with the skills and knowledge in terms of dealing with children during different circumstances,” Speede said.

Speaking on behalf of the GCB, Territorial Development Officer, Colin Stuart, pointed out that the knowledge of the Child Protection Coaching modules is a prerequisite for those seeking to obtain a CWI coaching certification.
In this regard, Stuart indicted that the GCB may from time to time require the use of individuals from organisations to conduct Child Protection seminars relevant to the goals and objectives of the CWI coaching certification standards.

The former West Indies fast bowler stated that the aim is also to assist custodians of children by enhancing their capabilities in making children aware of the expected behaviours of those who manage their welfare during their learning process.
Child Protection courses will also be conducted in Berbice on July 10, West Demerara on July 11, GCB’s boardroom on July 12, Upper Demerara on July 13, and Essequibo on July 14.