All systems are in place for a bigger and better ‘Let’s Celebrate Afrika’ presentation in Barbadian schools next month.

According to Education Officer (General Studies), Celeste Clarke-Cox, “this year’s celebrations will see students portraying Africa in a variety of formats. There will be a wide display of pottery, visual arts and basketry as well as dance, poetry and modelling of African clothing,” she said.

Ms. Clarke-Cox, also pointed out that “this year will see students making presentations on new United States President, Barack Obama. “We encouraged schools to include President Obama in their presentations. Participating schools are very excited about this aspect and have promised to come up with interesting ways to incorporate him in their presentations,” she stated.

The event, now in its fifth year, will take place at six secondary schools; The St. Michael School, St. Leonard’s Boys’, Coleridge and Parry School, Grantley Adams Memorial School, Christ Church Foundation School and St. George Secondary School.
Ms. Clarke-Cox explained that these six schools would be used to host the island’s primary and secondary schools. “We divide the schools into zones and each school is allowed to bring 40 students,” she pointed out.

Stressing the importance of the event, which takes place during Black History Month, Ms Clarke-Cox pointed out that the day would be an educational one for students.“It is a great learning experience for students. Instead of the normal classroom setting, children have the opportunity to learn in a more practical way, where they touch, taste, listen and respond,” she said.

 Ms. Clarke-Cox added that private sector agencies also play a significant role in the success of the annual event.  “Agencies such as the National Cultural Foundation (NCF) and The Commission for Pan-African Affairs continue to be very helpful. This year, the Commission will be staging an exhibit…the NCF continues to provide tents at all the participating schools to ensure the proceedings run smoothly,” she stated.

This year’s activities commence on February 3 at The St. Michael School and will culminate on February 24 at St. George Secondary School.

Pin It on Pinterest