Carnegie’s hosts first annual Christmas village

Locally made pepper sauceGeorgetown: The Carnegie School of Home Economics concluded its first Annual Christmas Village Wednesday which was held in the School’s compound. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Carnegie’s Principal, Ms. Penelope Harris noted that the activity is indeed a timely one, as it is being held in this season of good will and peace.  Alluding to the unique characteristics of the activity, Ms. Harris said, “One of the differences is that we are encouraging our students to develop the spirit of entrepreneurship. They want to partner with businesses. We want others to take a keen look at what is produced and to applaud their efforts.” More importantly, she announced that the Carnegie School of Home Economics will be partnering with various entities/ organisations in the future, to ensure that the students’ projects and ideas can be nurtured and developed into viable business.

“There are some budding business ideas here and it will give me pleasure to see it developed into full fledged businesses,’ Ms. Harris stated.

She also acknowledged the hard work and creativity of the participating students and expressed the hope that others will follow the example of entrepreneurship demonstrated.

In his remarks, the GTA Director, Indranauth Haralsingh, who is also a member of the Board of Governors, congratulated the faculty and staff on the success of the inaugural event, which he described as an “excellent initiative”

“The GTA supports and encourages events such as this. It is indeed a very innovate way of showcasing the talent and creativity of the students; the activity also lends to keeping the Christmas tradition alive for locals as well as visitors,” Haralsingh explained.

He also assured those present of the GTA’s continued support to the institution through the provision of training in various areas, including Marketing and Entrepreneurship and the placement of the Christmas Village activity on the Ministry of Tourism’s/GTA’s  annual Calendar of Events.

The GTA Director also expounded on the many ways the idea can be expanded and tailored around other events during the year, to attract a wider audience.

He said, “The theme can be duplicated to have similar events during the year for other holidays (Easter, Arrival Day, Emancipation) . Some additional ideas on expansion include offering crash courses on how to make traditional dishes, interior decorating, table presentations etc.”

The Carnegie Christmas Village can be seen as an extraordinary seasonal attraction, which has the potential to appeal to visitors as well as local families with its offerings of traditional Christmas dishes, handmade craft and jewellery, local beverages and foods.

Some of the delicacies available at the Christmas Village include black cake, garlic pork and garlic chicken, an assortment of breads, local juices and teas, cookies, peppers and chutneys.