By Pt. Ubraj Narine- Since President Irfaan Ali assumed office, one aspect that seems to have fallen through the cracks is the lack of a national award ceremony. The absence of such an important event has left Guyanese both at home and abroad, feeling unappreciated for their contributions and accomplishments. As our country’s independence anniversary approaches, it is crucial to remind President Ali of his promise to honour deserving individuals as they deserve recognition and appreciation.
It is disheartening to note that the last national award ceremony, held during the tenure of former President David Granger, acknowledged the achievements of others, including Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley Although we understand that President Ali’s term is still relatively new, we can not disregard the significance of honouring our compatriots who have made remarkable contributions to not only Guyana but also the diaspora.
During his visit to New York, President Ali had promised Dr. Dhanpaul Narine, that deserving individuals would be acknowledged and celebrated. We do not doubt President Ali’s genuine intentions to recognise the inspiring accomplishments of our fellow Guyanese. However, the absence of a national award ceremony thus far has fueled scepticism, and defying this promise could further deepen the sense of alienation among our people.
With Guyana’s independence anniversary approaching, it is an opportune time for President Ali to fulfill his commitment and demonstrate his dedication to celebrating the achievements of our nation. This ceremony would symbolise unity, pride, and reverence for the countless Guyanese who have positively impacted their communities and the country as a whole.
Additionally, honouring deserving individuals would serve as a catalyst for inspiration, motivating upcoming generations to strive for excellence and take pride in their Guyanese heritage. Recognizing accomplishments in the diaspora would strengthen the bond between Guyana and its global citizens, fostering a sense of belonging and inspiring them to contribute even more to their homeland.
The national award ceremony should encompass a wide range of categories, acknowledging excellence in various fields such as arts, culture, education, entrepreneurship, social services, sports, and humanitarian efforts. By embracing diversity and inclusivity, President Ali could celebrate the remarkable achievements of Guyanese across the board, creating a culture of meritocracy and ambition.
As Guyanese, we eagerly await the fulfilment of President Ali’s promise to Dr. Dhanpaul Narine and our nation. The upcoming independence anniversary presents a prime opportunity for President Ali to stand by his commitment and to celebrate the achievements of our people. This national award ceremony would not only provide long-overdue recognition but also instil a sense of unity, motivation, and pride among Guyanese at home and abroad. Let us come together and honour those who have made us proud, for they truly deserve to be acknowledged and celebrated.
