Reg. 6 Children’s Mash – highlighting Guyana’s wealth, flora and fauna
―over 1000 students participated
DPI, Guyana, Friday, February 22, 2019
Students from several schools participating in Region Six’s Children’s Mashramani parade grabbed the attention of commuters and passersby as they wended their way through Main Street New Amsterdam, Berbice.
The action kicked off at Main and Philadelphia Streets, as the children with the Golden Arrowheads in hand, glitter on their happily smiling face jumped and danced to the pulsating beat of Soca.
Some were dressed in costumes depicting Guyana’s six races, while others were attired in attire which highlighted the nation’s industries, flora and fauna. The massive crowd of revellers which averaged to over 1000, included pupils from Nursery, Primary and Secondary schools, teachers, parents and representatives from the Ministry of Education in East Berbice-Corentyne.
As is traditional, the pupils paraded east down Main Street, while some re-routed north on to L.F.S Burnham Street. It was at Main and Pitt Streets (the heart of New Amsterdam) where the jollification became the centre of attention. There, scores of spectators assembled to catch a glimpse of the colourful parade.
Experiencing Guyana’s Republic Anniversary celebrations for the first time was Antiguan Quiana Bruise. She told the Department of Public Information (DPI), that she thoroughly enjoyed every moment of the children’s parade. “I loved the way they danced, how they waved, everything! It shows that they are into their culture, into their music. And the special time set aside for the kids to have fun apart from the big day (February 23), I must say kudos to the organisers,” Bruise remarked.
Taking time off from her busy schedule, Regional Executive Officer (REO), Kim Williams-Stephen, said that the annual activity is aimed at providing the children with a hands-on experience of “celebrating after hard work.” She said the initiative also builds the students’ socializing skills, which is in keeping with the government’s plans to promote and practise social cohesion.
Tomorrow, February 23, marks the 49th year Guyana will observe becoming a Republic. The day includes a huge costume parade, music, games and cooking. Already, Williams-Stephen noted, Berbicians are fully prepared for the road march tomorrow.
This years’ Republic activities are being held under the theme, “Celebrate Mash 49 with victory in mind.”
Story and Image by Kellon Rover.