The sorry state of the Mahaica Community Centre

Dear Editor,

It is very distressing and even shameful to see the sorry state at which the building which bears the name of Mahaica Community Centre has been allowed to degenerate to. This building sits at an ideal location; close to the main road, for easy access by the residents of the community and yet, apart from a few limers on the stairways in the afternoons, this building is disused and left to fall apart. Vines can be seen running up the building and it is a haven for marabuntas. Why?

I can remember, with nostalgia, attending various events in that very building e.g.:

A community event on 26th May, 1966 to mark Guyana attaining independence status.

Tea parties held by the Mahaica Methodist Church.

Wedding receptions.

Film shows.

Community meetings.

Dominoes competition.

Dances (parties)

I played the role of an Amerindian in a May Pole there.

When Bygeval Secondary School was undergoing repairs in 2003-2004, I taught the Fifth formers in that building.

The Mahaica Secondary School was housed in that building before it was removed to the Helena Ball-Field.

In addition, the ground floor was once used as a Handicraft Centre and to house the Mahaica Practical Industrial Centre (PIC). The PIC vacated that space in 2009 and since then it has remained unused.

Surely, the Village fathers and mothers of the Unity-Vereeniging Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) who sit around the oval table can do the villagers a favour by articulating a comprehensive plan for the beneficial use of that building. Afterall, the executives were given the mandate to execute their duties and responsibilities with the express motive of providing such services and amenities that will improve the lives and living conditions of the residents of the community.

It must no longer be the same old same old. The residents deserve better. No more excuses. The modernization train has left the station already. Think outside of the box. Serve with distinction. Make a positive mark on the community.

There is no shortage of ideas for which that building can be utilized. These include, but not limited to

A Community library

A place where children can do homework

an ICT hub

Sports and games

Home for a Village steel band

Various clubs

Reception hall

Concerts and festivals

Skill training

Lectures/discussions/conferences/village meetings

In addition, the grounds to the east of the building, up to the canal, can be used to establish a mini play park for the children.

I am hopeful that the NDC will bite the bullet and with pride, endeavour to salvage the building from ruin and restore it to its glory days. The benefits that will redound to the youths and the community at large will be enormous. Make Mahaica the model village of Region Four. Is this too much to work towards?

Get on board Mahaica!

Yours faithfully,

Bernel L.H. Wickham