“Nationals” has consistently elevated athletes from school level to world-class standards – Min Jacobs

The National Secondary Schools Track and Field Championships brought together more than 1500 student-athletes from across the country to showcase their talent in various disciplines over three days of intense competition.
At the end, President’s College successfully defended their championship after some fierce competition from Linden’s dominant schools.
Speaking at the conclusion of the event on Friday evening, the Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Steven Jacobs, commended the standard of competition and the role the championships continue to play in developing elite athletes.
“This competition is now in its 66th year. It has taken different forms over time in relation to secondary schools, but these nationals have consistently elevated athletes from the school level to world-class standards,” Jacobs said.

He pointed to several athletes who have emerged from the system and gone on to represent Guyana on the international stage, including Emmanuel Archibald and Tiana Springer.
According to Jacobs, the performances at this year’s championships also demonstrated that many young athletes are recognising the opportunities that sport can provide.
“We had at least one person qualifying for the games, but generally you are seeing the talent, and these young people understand that now is the best time for them in relation to opportunity,” he said.
The Minister also highlighted Government initiatives aimed at supporting athletes, including the launch of a new elite training programme designed to prepare competitors for the Olympic Games.
“There is a light at the end of the tunnel because you have full Government support and full Government backing. We’ve spoken about opportunities in relation to facilities, and we have just launched an elite programme for athletes to prepare them for the Olympics,” Jacobs explained.
He stressed the broader value of sport beyond competition, noting that athletics plays a key role in building character and social development among young people.
“It is important for parents and coaches to understand what sports does in building morale and shaping the final product for society,” he said.
Jacobs added that as Guyana continues to develop and transform, investment in young people remains essential.
“We want to make sure that our human resources – our kids, our elders, every single person – are equipped with the necessary skills, not only for the work environment but also the social skills that play a major role in society,” he noted.
The Minister commended the athletes for their performances and expressed appreciation to parents and coaches who contributed to the success of the championships.
“Over 1500 athletes participated in this national championship, and that says a great deal. It is an opportunity to meet the young blood of Guyana. I am very proud of them. They competed over a two-day period and did exceptionally well,” Jacobs said.
He also thanked parents and coaches for their continued support of the athletes, emphasising that their contributions are vital to the country’s sporting development.
The championship once again highlighted the depth of athletic talent within Guyana’s secondary school system and reinforced the role of school sports as a pathway to national and international success.