Scores complete ‘Learn to Swim’ programme

The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports has successfully wrapped up its ‘Learn to Swim’ programme in Region Six, a free initiative that allowed participants to discover the joy of swimming while learning vital safety skills.

For the past three weeks, some participants as young as six took part in lessons guided by skilled coaches.

Regional Sports Officer Randy Mangru said the programme is an annual effort, not only in Berbice but across the country.

“The three-week swimming programme is something that we do annually here in Berbice and across the country. We had over 155 persons trained, including adults and youngsters.”

For many, the experience was life-changing. Dave Rupert lauded the programme.

“I thinks its a great initiative from the ministry.”

Jarred Walcott told Ignite News that swimming had always been a dream for him.

“The experience was great. Swimming was something I always wanted to do from a young age, but I never got the chance. I really appreciate the coaches taking the time off from their busy schedules all the way from Georgetown to come here to teach us to swim.”

For Natalia Douglas, the biggest takeaway was the kindness of her instructors.

“The thing that I love most about this programme [is] the patience — the coaches had a lot of patience with me.”

The programme not only taught a valuable life skill but also boosted participants’ confidence.

Participants during the training