‘Shared responsibility to talent development’ – Minister Ramson Jr.

Speaking at the opening of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Easter Swim Camp, Minister Charles Ramson Jr. passionately told the parents that they must understand their role in nurturing the development of many talented athletes in Guyana.

Ramson Jr. told the massive gathering at the National Aquatic Centre, Liliendaal, where this year’s programme was officially launched Saturday that while the government is responsible for leading in developing quality infrastructure and implementing wholesome programmes, parents also play a pivotal role.

The Minister urged parents to look at the talents the swim programme has unearthed and indicated that while the government will continue to invest in the sport nationwide, parents have a role to play off the proverbial field in some instances by continuously supporting and encouraging the athletes.

More so, 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.

The programme will also cater to individuals with disabilities, and a lifeguard course will be conducted, further extending its scope of importance and impact.

Over 2,200 children have signed up to learn how to swim, free of cost, compliments of the collaboration between the Ministry and the National Sports Commission.

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

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

Ninvalle further revealed that the Ministry will send one athlete and a coach for selected disciplines to India on a scholarship in the coming months.

Athletes will spend six to nine months, while coaches will serve three months.

The disciplines under consideration are cricket, badminton, basketball, tennis, golf and swimming.

Additionally, Ninvalle, who recently returned from French Guiana, confirmed that Guyana will send a team to the Inter-Guiana Games in October. Seven disciplines are expected to represent Guyana at IGG.