PICKLEBALL LANDS IN GUYANA

​Pickleball, one of the world’s fastest-growing sports, was officially introduced to Guyana following a launch on Saturday at the Leonora Masjid.

​The sport was brought to Guyana by United States of America-based Guyanese Rayman Hamid, with support from the Ministries of Education and Culture, Youth and Sport.

​Expressing appreciation to Mr. Hamid for his foresight and generosity in providing the first set of equipment, Minister Parag noted the introduction of pickleball creates new avenues for recreation and fitness, and is a new and fun addition to "PE Fridays."

​Minister Parag also reminded that participating in sports is a great way of building and strengthening community relations, cultivating discipline and resilience, and promoting the core values of teamwork and good sportsmanship.

As it is, over 70 secondary schools already offer at least one sport.

​“Those of you who are playing pickleball here today have no idea that you are actually contributing to the national sports agenda and to the government’s vision for education,” Minister Parag stated.

​She emphasised the government’s efforts to nurture well-rounded individuals with healthy outlets for exercise and recreation. “Education is not just academics, it’s not just sitting in a classroom. We want it to be more than that; we want you to develop skills outside of the classroom,” Minister Parag told the children.

​Similar sentiments were shared by Honourable Steven Jacobs, Minister Within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, who encouraged participants to embrace the opportunity to learn the game's basics and enjoy friendly competitions.

Also attending the launch were Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Shannielle Hoosein-Outar; Chief Education Officer, Mr. Saddam Hussain; Deputy Chief Education Officer (Admin), Ms. Tiffany Harvey; along with members of the Ministry’s Allied Arts Unit and Georgetown Mayor and City Councillor, Alphonso DeArmas.