The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCY&S), in collaboration with the National Sports Commission (NSC), has launched a series of groundbreaking swimming programs aimed at making aquatic education accessible to all Guyanese citizens. These initiatives mark a significant step forward in the country’s efforts to promote water safety, physical fitness, and inclusivity through sport.
In June 2024, the MCY&S introduced an Inaugural Learn to Swim programme for differently-abled individuals. This pioneering initiative, which ran from June 1 to July 6, offered classes every Saturday at the National Aquatic Center. The program attracted over 400 registrants, demonstrating the high demand for inclusive sporting opportunities. Under the guidance of national coach Paul Mahaica and senior instructor Brentnol Carmichael, participants received top-notch training tailored to their specific needs.
Building on this success, the Ministry expanded its reach to Essequibo, launching the ‘Learn to Swim’ program in July 2024. Held at the Imam Bacchus Swimming Pool in Affiance, this initiative drew participants from various coastal villages and the Pomeroon area. The program offered separate sessions for children and adults, running throughout July with an impressive turnout of over 350 registrants.
Minister of Sport Charles Ramson Jr. emphasized the importance of these programs in youth development and highlighted the government’s commitment to extending such opportunities across Guyana. “This is an investment in human capital, with no cost to the populace,” Ramson stated, underscoring the potential lifesaving benefits and the program’s role in promoting discipline and a love of learning.
Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle provided insight into the remarkable growth of swimming initiatives under the current administration. Since 2020, over 13,890 participants have registered for Learn to Swim programs, with a significant increase from 1,750 in 2022 to over 6,575 in 2024. Ninvalle attributed this growth to the shift from a fee-based model to a free initiative, aligning with the “One Guyana” spirit of inclusivity.
The Ministry’s commitment to inclusive sports development extends beyond swimming. In October 2024, a new swimming pool was commissioned at the Regional Special Education Needs and Disability Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, benefiting 200 children with disabilities. This initiative aims to boost confidence and provide calming activities for differently-abled children.
However, challenges remain within the competitive swimming community. The Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) faced a crisis in 2024 due to mismanagement and lack of transparency. Recommendations for reform have been made to improve governance and communication structures.
As Guyana continues to invest in its sporting infrastructure and programs, these swimming initiatives serve as a model for inclusive sports development. By breaking down barriers and providing opportunities for all citizens to learn essential water safety skills, the country is not only nurturing potential athletic talent but also fostering a healthier, more confident, and more inclusive society.
With the success of these programs and ongoing support from both government and private sector partners, Guyana’s swimming community looks set to make an even bigger splash in the years to come. As the nation addresses the challenges within competitive swimming, the focus on grassroots development and inclusivity promises a brighter future for aquatic sports in Guyana.
