Over 500 children complete vacation programmes
The National Sports Commission and the National School of Music on Friday concluded their August Vacation programmes, which saw the participation of over 500 children from across the country.
At a small closing ceremony held at D’Urban Park, Minister within the Ministry of Education Nicolette Henry commended the participants as well as the coaches and instructors for their dedication.
Henry, during her brief address, said that regular participation in sports and games teaches children to play the game of life. “It teaches them to accept defeat just as they would accept winning or victory and helps them to build confidence apart from fitness,” she said.
She also emphasised to the youths that being involved in any sport or music aids in development, both physically and mentally, and helps to foster teamwork.
“This is just the beginning. If you continue to practice what you were taught, it is possible that some of you could move on to bigger things, such as representing your country.
All that is required is a lot of sacrifice, training and dedication,” she added.
“Some say that getting involved in sports could be a waste of time, but this is not true… they are useful in many ways. It helps to achieve many things in life, such as health, fitness, income and fame,” she further said.
Meanwhile, Administrator of the National School of Music Andrew Tyndall said the programme aims to integrate music as an active part in the school curriculum.
According to him, the children were introduced to the basic elements of music in a very practical and fun way.
They were also taught several different disciplines of music, which included electronic keyboard, steel pan, recorder, guitar, drums and singing.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, the children were each awarded a certificate for their participation. Newspaper columnist and activist Freddie Kissoon on Tuesday testified at the trial of the men charged with dousing him with human faeces.
PPP members Kwame McCoy, 40, and Jason Abdulla, 34, and former bodyguard Shawn Hinds, 51, are charged with assaulting Kissoon, whom they are accused of dousing with human faeces during an attack in 2010.
Tuesday’s court proceeding before Magistrate Judy Latchman saw Kissoon taking the stand. Subsequent to his testimony, he was subjected to cross-examination by attorneys Glenn Hanoman, Latchmie Rahamat, Euclin Gomes and George Thomas, who appeared for the defence.
Hanoman’s cross examination of the defendant was, however, suspended by Magistrate Latchman to the next court hearing.
The matter was adjourned to August 29.