WELL over 2,200 children have signed up to learn how to swim, free of cost, compliments of the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport (MCY&S), in collaboration with the National Sports Commission (NSC), annual Easter Vacation National Swimming Programme.

The 2024 edition of the camp was officially launched on Saturday at the National Aquatic Centre, at Liliendaal.

The camp commences Tuesday, and will last for two weeks, with sessions at the Aquatic Centre, the site of its intended launch; the Colgrain Swimming Pool, Georgetown; the Watooka Swimming Pool, Linden; and the Albion Estate Pool, East Berbice.

The aim of the programme is to teach children the life skills of swimming, and they can then opt to join swim clubs.

Minister Charles Ramson Jr. urged parents to look at the talents the programme has unearthed, and indicated that while the government will continue to invest in the sport through facilities and programmes nationwide, parents have a role to play off the proverbial field in some instances by continuous support and encourage for the athletes.

The programme will also cater to individuals with disabilities, further extending its scope of importance and impact.

Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle said the programme has received overwhelming support since its return, noting that teaching a life skill has developed into a cultural phenomenon.

Experienced national coach Paul Mahaica will again be the programme coordinator and lead trainer.