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Helping to Develop Tomorrow’s Great Thinkers

 

 

Students at La Seiva RC Primary School now have a renewed space to read and to let their imagination run wild thanks to a newly upgraded library facilitated through a partnership between the Rotary Club Maraval, Let’s Read and LNG production company Atlantic. President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago Her Excellency Paula-Mae Weekes formally opened the new library in the presence of distinguished guests, teachers, and students at a recent inauguration celebration at the school.

Her Excellency emphasized to the students the integral role that reading plays in enriching one’s life, such as allowing readers the ability to travel to the farthest and most magical of places.

Camille Salandy, Manager of Sustainability and Corporate Communications at Atlantic said that the company’s $40,000 contribution to the initiative was part of its commitment to moving the next generation ahead by ensuring that primary school students have access to the resources to help them develop their literacy skills.

We are passionate about developing the nation’s youth and pride ourselves on paying special attention to the primary school age group,” Salandy said. “We consider this to be the foundation age that is deserving of support to build the strongest national community possible. As we all know, literacy and numeracy are the corner stones on which a successful education and a successful life are built.

Through Atlantic’s contribution to the primary school, the library was outfitted with brand new books, bookshelves, and furniture, creating a safe space for students to explore and enjoy the worlds that await them amongst the pages.

Among its several educational programmes and initiatives focused on equipping primary school children, Atlantic also seeks to nurture literacy at this level, acknowledging the value this adds to their education and holistic well-being. For the past five years, Atlantic in partnership with the Ministry of Education has conducted its Point Fortin Literacy and Numeracy Programme, which provides specialised instructional technology to improve students’ reading and numeracy skills in primary schools in its home community. The technology uses learning material through book and audio formats, allowing for a more dynamic, engaging, and effective learning experience.

Atlantic has also donated to the ongoing upgrade of the Cap-de-Ville Government Primary School and outfitted the entire internet café in the Point Fortin Public Library.

In her closing comments to the students, Salandy said, “Knowledge is power, and information is liberating. Take advantage of the opportunities being given to you at school and in your community. Absorb as much as you can – become the great thinkers and doers of tomorrow.