Nova Scotia-Gambia Association and Action Aid the Gambia (AAITG) recently held an Inter-School Drama and Quiz Competition at the Alliance Franco Gambienne on Kairaba Avenue.
The theme for the quiz was 'Education to survive/life skills'. Participants were drawn from different schools in the country.
In his opening remarks, Nyakassi Jarju, Country Director of NSGA, said the event was held to deliver on their commitment towards achieving MDG 6, which is to combat HIV/AIDS, Malaria and other related diseases.
He said: "In fighting against HIV in The Gambia from 2.8% to 2% by 2013, we are now in 2011 therefore time is not on our side."
"This time it is a nationwide competition for selected schools; support us and we will deliver on a national competition of high standards. Our children in schools need challenges and opportunities to excel in leadership, good and democratic citizenship values, and to be equipped with life skills; therefore, the need for competitions in debate, drama, leadership and life skills."
Mr Jarju also praised Mr Burris and Mrs Louanne Devanney, who initiated the establishment of the Nova Scotia Gambia Association.
The participating schools were judged by their teamwork, creativity, message, ability to captivate the audience, and how the drama was done in a real Gambian scenario.
There was a quiz competition for Upper Basic Schools in which St. Michael emerged first and Sabi Upper Basic School runners-up.
Nasir Senior School came out as winner of the unprepared speeches and Berending Senior School emerged the runners-up.
In drama, Barra-Essau Upper Basic School emerged the winner in the Upper Basic category, and St. Therese's Upper Basic School came second.
In the senior school category, Nusrat Senior Secondary School captured the cup while Bansang Senior School emerged runners-up.
The NSGA works mainly with schools but is also in communities targeting youth in the age bracket of 14 and 24 years. It uses the Peer Health Education model to reach large numbers of youth.
