Parika residents motivated to build a more cohesive community
– “We have seen the level of interest coming out from this group. They really showed that they wanted to develop their community” – Technical Officer of the Department of Social Cohesion
DPI, Guyana, Wednesday, October 17, 2018
Motivated to build a more cohesive community, residents of Parika in Region Three today participated in the Ministry of the Presidency’s Department of Social Cohesion’s 77th Diversity Education and Inclusion Training. The two-day training commenced today at Beach View Hotel, Bushy Park.
Guided by the trainers, Kala Seegopaul and Rishon Rambarran, participants were involved in several activities to help them understand and deal with biases and diversity. At the end of the exercise, they are expected to develop an appreciation for themselves and others, have an increased awareness and sensitivity about behaviours that contribute to building better relations between the residents of the community.
Jonelle Van-Doimen, a participant, said “it is good because we never had it before and now that it has come to the Parika Façade, it is a good thing because it helps persons to come together and help them to cooperate and learn to live in love and unity.”
Another participant, Michael Scotland believes that unity is necessary for the land of six people. “It is important that persons from different ethnic groups know how to interact and socialise and live in harmony, so, social cohesion is a must.”
17-year-old Emily Gangajelly, who also participated in the exercise, said the programme is crucial especially for young people. “I think it is very important for us to know our values and I think we should know what we are worth to our community and set a good example” Gangajelly stated.
Sunil Oudit, who is also Chairman of the Community Development Council (CDC), noted that “it is getting people together and understanding themselves. When you can understand yourself then you can understand others so it is important for community development.”
Technical Officer to the Department of Social Cohesion, Pamela Nauth explained that the training stemmed from a social cohesion sensitisation outreach that was held in the community. Nauth said the response from the residents has been overwhelming and that they showed a willingness to building a better community.
“We have seen a high level of interest coming from this group. They really showed that they wanted to develop their community, they want to build that community spirit and that is what social cohesion is about” Nauth underscored.
The exercise carried out by the Ministry of the Presidency’s Department of Social Cohesion is part of their five-year strategic plan aimed at building cohesive communities countrywide.
By: Isaiah Braithwaite.
Images: Jameel Mohamed.