Christmas wishes
Stabroek News
December 25, 2004
Tamika Henry, aged 17:
'My biggest wish would be for job creation. There are very few opportunities out there for young people who are looking to do something productive after completing a secondary education. Not all of us want to leave; some of us still believe in this country. I would also like to see a reduction in criminal activity, which has appeared to be on the upsurge once more. Every day you can pick up a newspaper and read about someone who was killed, robbed, molested - and the list goes on. This is not the image that Guyana needs to be promoting overseas. I feel that there is still good within the society, and that needs to be highlighted. My final wish would be for Guyanese to unite, which I think is the first step in solving so many of our problems.'
Elson Low, aged 12:
'My wish is for racial harmony and less corruption in Guyana. There is too much conflict between the races in this country. I wish that we can unite as a people for the new year. I feel there should be less corruption in the country in order for us to move forward. As a nation, we can only get better minus corruption. As for me and my family, I wish the new year finds us in good health. I also wish all Guyanese a merry Christmas.'
Ryan Dhanraj, aged 16:
'Firstly, I wish that Guyana can find economic and financial stability once more. I also wish for racial harmony in the society. We as young people don't want the future that has been shown to us, evident by what is happening today. We want a better Guyana, a united Guyana. But, I feel that young people must be educated before positive changes can be made. I don't really believe my wishes can be fulfilled in one day, but I do feel they can one day be realised. Another wish of mine this year is that the country be developed with respect to eco-tourism. We have a country of unspoiled beauty and that should be capitalised upon. I also have a wish that some day our currency can be of some value.'
Rebecca Ram, aged 17:
'I wish there [would be] political stability in our country for the upcoming general elections. It is my hope that our leaders take full responsibility during that time for the people. I also wish that women and children in Guyana can be protected against abuse. Looking at the society today, I see that reading is not promoted among young people as it should. I wish that parents can join teachers in helping to promote reading. I also wish that people in this country can come together and work towards its development. It is another wish of mine, that Guyanese seek God and get to truly know him.'
Roberta Ferguson, aged 11:
'I wish for peace in our country. Looking at everything that is happening right now, I think we need peace. In addition to this, I wish that every Guyanese can have a Christ-filled Christmas so they could know the real meaning of the season. As for me, I wish for lots of prosperity.'