The 53rd National Schools Cycling, Swimming and Track and Field Championship was officially launched yesterday at the Ministry of Education office on Brickdam. Delivering the feature address, Minister of Education Priya Manickchand stated that the Ministry’s focus should not only be on students producing high academic standards but to ensure well-rounded citizens are created by supporting other aspects of development.
She noted that the responsibility of producing such individuals should not only be on the government but also the parents, teachers, the corporate community and other related organs within the society.
The Minister while also acknowledging the input of the business community, who she pointed out have stepped up and honoured their corporate duty, disclosed that the Ministry has budgeted between $10-15 million for the event.
Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) President Colin Bynoe during remarks stated that the total expenditure to host the championships falls within the vicinity of $23 million.
Bynoe revealed that the championships will be held from November 19-22 at the National Stadium and took the opportunity to recognise the support that is always given by the Management and Staff of the facility. He reminded that the event could not have been possible without the support of the business community. Bynoe said it is the fervent hope of the Organizers that out of the Championships will come athletes with the potential to represent Guyana at the 2016 Olympics.
Region 4 Chairman Clement Corlette in brief remarks said that the body was extremely proud that the Championship is being held once again in the Region, adding that they are looking forward to giving a good account of themselves and preparations to do so have started.
Digicel Sponsorship & Events Manager Gavin Hope in his remarks spoke of the Company’s steadfast commitment to the event which according to him is in its third year.
According to him, the Company is all about the development of young people and the mere fact that they are involved is testimony to that vision.
He said he is glad that the National Stadium was chosen and is keenly looking forward to four days of keen competition among the best young athletes in the country. Sponsors of the event include Digicel, Banks DIH under its Malta brand, Courts (Guyana) Inc., and Giftland Office Max under its Asics brands.
