![Lodge Secondary dances for the opening. [iNews' Photo]](https://i0.wp.com/www.inewsguyana.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/nat3.jpg)
The ceremony opened with a colourful march pass of all 15 districts, showcasing their different and unique banners.
Hinds in his feature address noted that the event is where youths are challenged to showcase their talents.
“These athletic championships is one of the first instances of fostering our youth… it is a challenge to do our best in the spirit of competition and excellence.
“I challenge the GTU and the Ministry of Education to make this best national event that represents us as a people,” Hinds urged.
President of the Guyana Teacher’s Union, Mark Lyte was thankful to all the stakeholders, highlighting that more can be done to improve the event.
![Students from North Georgetown light the torch. [iNews' Photo]](https://i0.wp.com/www.inewsguyana.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/nat2.jpg)
Deputy Chief Education Officer of the Ministry of Education, Donna Champman was quick to point out the history of the event while stating that she “would like our 2015 championships to be held at the new Leonora Synthetic track,” she quipped.
Meanwhile, the event concluded with the lighting of the games torch by the defending champions, North Georgetown (District 11) as well as a dance display from Lodge Secondary school.
What is the point in nationals when there is NO investment from the government in furtherance of these athletic pursuits after school? Meaning that there is no opportunity, locally at least, to apply the skills cultivated during school years. As far as i am concerned, the money spent to facilitate nationals could be otherwise invested.