Dear Editor,
I noted that once again students of Annai Secondary School have performed excellently at a national art competition. Last November it was 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th in the NAPS art competition, now it is 2nd and 3rd in the Carifesta child art competition. What I find remarkable is that these students have no easy way to communicate with the outside world, yet they are informed, make the effort, and do themselves proud. They have none of the amenities I have gotten accustomed to and take for granted here on the coast.
I visited Annai District for the first time in May, and was astounded to discover that the students at Bina Hill are basically cut off from the world. No telephone, no television, no radio (from the coast). There was, however, a large pile of newspapers. I was told that the HM gets her husband to send boxes of newspapers (at her personal expense) which are then given to the students to read. This is their primary source of information.
I think this is really commendable, and shows commitment and dedication. Now on my second visit, it worries me to learn that the HM’s period of service in Annai is now finished, since she went to serve for two years, 2006 to 2008. She has done a remarkable job and should be retained. I urge the authorities to try their best to either convince Ms Torrington to stay, or find a replacement with her qualities.
The students and parents are worried that when she leaves the school is going to slide right back into a state of lethargy, which doesn’t augur well for students in the North Rupununi.
Finally, can someone say why there is no student with at least 75% overall at the Grade 6 Assessment from Regions 7, 8 or 9?
Yours faithfully,
Abina Hamilton
