The 10th edition of the R.E.A.D. (Read Every Day and Discover) project, titled “Pages of Potential,” was successfully organized by the Rotaract Club of Georgetown Central in collaboration with Rotary Georgetown Central, and the Interact Clubs of Queen’s College and The Bishops’ High School. Held at the Queen’s College Auditorium on September 8, 2024, to coincide with World Literacy Day and Rotary’s Basic Education and Literacy Month, the event aimed to promote literacy and inclusivity for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Education experts, including Anjalena Beshpatty, Founder and Director of Sameir, led the interactive literacy sessions! Uniquely Me; Marcia Smith, Headteacher and Founder of The Gifted Hands Learning Centre; and Yolanda Williams, Headmistress of the David Rose Special School. These experts, along with their support staff, tailored the sessions to meet the unique learning needs of the children. The initiative also included the distribution of sensory toys, educational materials, and learning tools to eighty-five (85) children, enhancing their literacy skills and supporting their caregivers.
In her opening remarks, Monique Williams, President of the Rotaract Club of Georgetown Central (RCGC), reflected on the project’s growth since its inception in 2015, highlighting its significant impact on children in Guyana.
Terriesa Smith, Director of International Service, emphasised the importance of creating inclusive learning environments, noting, “Autistic children, despite their neurodivergent traits, have much to contribute. Through this initiative, we aim to promote understanding, acceptance, and awareness of autism within our community, ensuring these children have opportunities to thrive.”
Jagdesh Harripershad, President of the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central, echoed these sentiments, stating, “Literacy is a basic right. Through this initiative, we strive to make reading accessible and enjoyable for every child, regardless of their challenges.”
The project’s success was made possible through the generous sponsorship of CNOOC, Republic Bank, and Rotary Georgetown Central.
Corporate Social Responsibility Analyst at CNOOC, Tanza McAlmont, emphasised the company’s commitment to education and community development.
“At CNOOC, education is a key focus area. We are dedicated to ensuring all children, regardless of their abilities, have access to educational resources that unlock their full potential,” McAlmont said.
The event underscored the importance of inclusive education and raised awareness about ASD, celebrating each child’s potential for success.
Coined from the words Rotary in Action, Rotaract clubs are either community- or university-based and embody the service principles set forth by Rotary.
The Rotaract Club of Georgetown Central is a non-profit, non-governmental organization dedicated to youths aged 18 to 35. Its mission is to serve the community through volunteer initiatives, promoting leadership, responsible citizenship, and high ethical standards in business to enhance the quality of life for young people in Guyana.
