Republic Day (Mashramani) celebrations 2018 have been deemed a success, and plans for the celebration of Mashramani 2019 have been launched by the Culture, Youth and Sports Ministry on Friday evening at the National Cultural Centre.
Friday evening was also dedicated to reflecting on the successful completion of this year’s events.
Social Cohesion Minister Dr George Norton, who was responsible for this year’s activities, announced that Republic Day activities were undoubtedly successful, and labelled the observance “one of the best we’ve ever had”. This was due to the vast support received in both organizing the events and in participation.
The recipients of prizes at this year’s Mashramani Prize Giving Ceremony
Minister Norton also noted that, throughout the journey along the Mash route, there were no incidents. He acknowledged the work done by the coordinator, and pledged to support the musicians for the creativity they have showcased this year.
“Indeed, the year’s Republic Anniversary observance surpassed our expectations,” he said.
Director of Culture, Tamika Botswain, presented a Mash report that detailed the list of activities completed this year. She said the Junior Soca Monarch was a new initiative which was done to promote more diversity and art forms. It was observed this year that soca was a crucial component of the Mash celebrations, while masquerade saw increased juvenile participation.
Throughout the evening, the audience was entertained by Chutney Monarch Chaitsingh Mohanlall, Junior Calypso Moharch Jovinski Thorne, Adult Calypso Monarch Onica Joseph, and adult Soca Monarch Brandon Harding.
Additionally, the event featured the prize giving ceremony, in which persons who won in this year’s Mashramani competitions were presented with their awards.
Some of the schools that won included Smyth Street Nursery, Graham’s Hall Primary, South Ruimveldt Secondary, St Joseph High School, The Bishops’ High School, J E Burnham Primary and Skeldon Line Path Secondary.
Later that evening, the ministry used the opportunity to launch the Mashramani celebrations for 2019, which will be held under the theme “Celebrate 49 with Victory in Mind”. Furthermore, Minister Norton has given his assurance that Mashramani would be celebrated in all regions of Guyana in 2019.
