Opportunities to develop and practise public speaking skills are being lauded by the Ministry of Education.

For the 5th consecutive year, Deputy Premier and Minister of Education, Financial Services & Employment Hon. Rolston Anglin, JP has thrown his support behind the efforts of the Optimist Club of George Town Grand Cayman in helping young people reach their fullest potential.

On Friday February 22nd, 2013 Club President Mark Ray presented the Deputy Premier with a plaque of appreciation on behalf of the Optimist Club.  Mr. Ray commented after the presentation, “The work of the Optimist Club complements the work of the Ministry of Education and other Ministries, organisations and groups that work with young people.  Minister Anglin has been in attendance at all of the previous Oratorical Contests, and his on-going support therefore serves as a reminder that we all have a part to play in providing the best possible opportunities for the youth in the Cayman Islands. ”

The Deputy Premier thanked the Optimist Club for their “unexpected, but very much appreciated gesture” and commended the Club for the consistent quality of the Oratorical Contest.  He added “This contest is one that we should encourage our young people at secondary school to be a part of.  Speech is an integral part of our English curriculum and activities such as these that supplement the good work being done by our teachers should be encouraged to grow and blossom.”

Mr. Ray noted that the contest which will be held this Saturday, March 23rd at 10 am at the Harquail Theatre, will have the same level of high quality speeches as was seen in the previous years.  He further explained that participants will speak for 4 to 5 minutes on the topic “Why My Voice Is Important.”

Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place of $500 USD, $350 USD and $150 USD respectively.  In addition, the winner goes on to represent the Cayman Islands at the District Oratorical Contest in Jamaica later in March.

Further information on the Club and the contest can be found at www.optimistcayman.com or interested persons can call 927-9070 or 916-2844 for more information.