The Ministry of Amerindian Affairs announces the winners in its 2010 Amerindian Heritage Essay Writing Contest held as part of this year’s observances for Amerindian Heritage month.
According to a press release, the winners in three categories – nine to 11 years old, 12 to 14 years old, and 15 years and above – were chosen from 45 entries from primary and secondary schools from all but regions seven and nine. Leonardo Abraham of Comenius Primary School emerged victorious in the first age category, followed by Arsel Jones of Redeemer Primary School and Jermaine Dillion of Vryheid’s Lust Primary School.
In the 12-14 age group Rosana Bisnauth of Queen’s College won the first place followed by Naricia Richards of Bethany Mission, Essequibo Coast and Giselle Fitzpatrick of St Joseph high School. In the 15 and above age range Veena Ramdat of St Joseph High School was adjudged winner, Raquel Persaud of Bishops’ High School second and Adel Jones of Queen’s College, third.
Students were invited to submit an essay on the topic ‘Promoting Sustainable Livelihood and Cultural Heritage while transforming our Village Economies’, the theme for this year’s Amerindian Heritage Month celebrations. A prize-giving ceremony is being held at the Georgetown Club today.
The winner in the nine to 11 age group will receive $20,000; the second, $15,000 and the third $10,000. In the second category the winner will receive $25,000, the runner-up $20,000 and third place finisher $15,000. In the 15 and above category, the winner will receive $30,000 and the second and third place $25,000 and $20,000 respectively. The prizes are sponsored by the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company.
The release said the schools that participated also include: Santa Rosa Secondary in Region One, Parika Salem Secondary in Region Three, Belladrum Secondary, St Stanislaus High, Central High, Christ Church Secondary, Stella Maris Primary in Region Four, Berbice High in Region Six, Paramakatoi Secondary, Region Eight and Mackenzie High and Wiruni Primary in Region 10.
