It's called on the spot painting and it's a competition promoted by the Ministry of Natural Resources to encourage children to draw pictures of what they think global warming means. Participating Belize City primary school students between 8 and 14 years old gathered at the Holy Redeemer Parish Hall yesterday. Communications Officer for the Ministry of Natural Resources Violet Yorke told us why they draw.
Violet Yorke, Communications Officer - MNRI
"Students from across the country actually will be at specific venues that we are holding the competition where they will actually paint right there on the spot on particular topics that we've selected.
This year we've selected climate change, the reason being not many Belizeans are familiar with the concept of climate change and though its part of the educational curriculum, not many children are familiar with what it means and how Belize can be affected or impacted by climate change.
Surprisingly they do understand. If you can see some of the paintings right now, it is an indication and a reflection that they are learning true art."
Similar competitions were held in the districts. The on the spot competition culminates with the 3rd annual Natural Resources and Environment week, which is being observed from 20th to 26th May 2007. Winners of the competition will receive various prizes such as a computer for the winning school, a field trip for his or her class, a Smart phone, and a digital camera.
