Minister of Education and Human Resource Development (right) tries out one of the guitars presented by First Caribbean International Bank (FCIB). Looking on are Manager Director of FCIB, Oliver Jordan and pupils of some of the schools receiving the equipment.

Nine schools from across the island will benefit from some BDS$40,000 in musical equipment, which was donated to the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development, yesterday by the First Caribbean International Bank (FCIB).

In expressing his thanks, Minister Jones said that the contribution would greatly benefit schools in the development of their respective music programmes.??

He explained that the equipment would be distributed to All Saints Primary, Arthur Smith Primary, Cuthbert Moore Primary, Roland Edwards Primary, St. John’s Primary, Ann Hill, St. Bartholomew’s Primary, Bayley’s Primary and the Ellerton Primary Annex, a special school.

Noting that music played an important role in the lives of both children and adults, the Minister stressed that there was great musical talent in our schools, which was highlighted recently at the National Independence Festival of Creative Arts (NIFCA) gala.

The Minister added that he would like his ministry to further partner with FCIB to develop an orchestra using the talent of students across the island, as a way to expose our children to different types of music.

Managing Director of FCIB Oliver Jordan, said that his bank was committed to the development of social capital, "particularly in young people on whom the future of Barbados depends".

He underlined that FCIB, recognised the value of music to children’s lives. "Allowing children to play an instrument helps to increase the speed at which they learn.?? Music can also increase the speed at which children solve problems and help them to build their confidence," he explained.

The equipment donated included acoustic guitars, percussion kits, drums and keyboards.??

kmoore@barbados.gov.bb

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