Dear Editor,
The Suriname Hindu Guyanese Cultural Organization (SHGCO) extends heartfelt congratulations on the historic victory of President David Granger. He should know that he can count on our best wishes and support as he assumes the duties of head of state, head of government, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Guyana and the Chancellor of the Orders of Guyana.
The SHGCO was formed in Paramaribo in 1987. We will be celebrating our 27th anniversary on June 25, 2015. The organization was formed during the Hoyte administration by progressive Guyanese civic, philanthropic and religious leaders of the Hindu faith. We have worked to promote the Guyanese experience in Suriname; an understanding of and reflection on the truly special life we have as Guyanese; the role we have played in the founding and growth of this religious society and the political freedoms we share; and our rights and obligations as proud, patriotic citizens of Guyana and Suriname.
On September 29, 2013 the SHGCO held an awards ceremony/cultural programme to express appreciation to the leadership in the Surinamese and Guyanese community for their tremendous service and dedication over the past 25 years. Over the decades the SHGCO has hosted many events, particularly for the youth from Paramaribo all the way to Georgetown: for example, training, such as, becoming effective leaders and public speakers, to help make Suriname’s future even brighter; workshops, such as, marriage counselling for those who need it; tabla training, so the youth become proficient in this musical instrument and can play at many religious functions; and singing – all forms of Indian, Caribbean music; dancing lessons – Kathak and Bollywood.
Several groups and organizations from the United States of America, India, China and Brazil have visited the Shiv Shakti Samadj Mandir to conduct seminars and hold presentations.
President Granger’s message of hope, freedom and opportunity resonates with our members, as it does with Guyanese across Suriname and all over the world. These are challenging times and we know that the coalition’s policies in relation to education, employment, empowerment, energy, enterprise and economic development, social and security policy will bode well for the development of Guyana. We are confident that under the President’s leadership, Guyana will be a great force for good in the world and maybe even go back to being the bread basket of the Caribbean.
Yours faithfully,
Krishna ‘Sammy’ Eliah
President
