Lotto co. donates books to boost literacy programme
By Shawnel Cudjoe
Guyana Chronicle
February 27, 2004
THE Ministry of Education on Tuesday received a boost to its literary programme with the donation of two hundred copies of an anthology of short stories and poems titled 'Barefoot Lady' to its literary department.
The books were jointly donated and sponsored by the Guyana Lottery Company and one of the authors Mr. Robert Fernandes.
The publication will be available to students at the University of Guyana (UG), Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), Public Library and secondary schools countywide by next week.
Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Education Mr. Hydar Ally who received the books on the Ministry's behalf said that it marked another partnership in continuing the enhancement of the Nation's children.
He said the donation would help to mould the nation's children in the literacy field which is important in today's society.
Ally further noted that the main reason for the donation was for children to place more emphasis on writing English Literature at the CXC level and also encourage them to emulate Guyanese writers.
Head of the Association of Guyanese Writers and Artists Mr. Roopnandan Singh who compiled and edited the publication told the media that the book emerged from a junior literary competition for short stories and poems held last year.
According to Singh "it was decided that the winning entries from the various categories and schools would be made into a book".
The book got its title from a poem written by School of the Nations student Ms. Aliya Bulkan who won first place in the under 18 category.
He also stressed that literature can have a significant impact on the unification of society and in closing thanked the Guyana Lottery Company for the sponsorship.
General Manager of the Guyana Lottery Company Ms. Tracy Lewis said that the talents of the young writers in the book was quite overwhelming and can be used as a motivating tool to other young people.
She also encouraged the Association of Guyanese writers and artists to approach her company for any further assistance that might be required.
Guyanese author Robert Fernandes said that lack of reading was the main reason for the breakdown in communication and by promoting creative writing; it will ensure that peace exists in Guyana.
The book has a total of 26 short stories and poems and also has pieces by popular Guyanese writers including Petamber Persaud, Patrick Noel Cheeks and Robert Fernandes.