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BELMAR
FLIES SVG'S FLAG IN PALAU
Belmar:
I'm impressed with Palau's culture
Herman Belmar
was head teacher of the Bequia Anglican High School. He is now
Industrial Arts, Science and Physical Education teacher at that
same institution whose name has been changed to the Bequia Community
High School. Belmar recently undertook an expedition, which carried
him almost around the world.
He returned
home from Palau in the Pacific via Manila, Los Angeles, New York,
San Juan, Canouan, back to Barbados before arriving at the E.T.
Joshua airport. Belmar was taking part in a UNESCO sponsored Inter-regional
conference.
This was through
a Small Islands Voice Youth Forum. Belmar is hoping to get other
schools linked up to the programme in areas of sustainable development.
By 2004 the
Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States is scheduled
to be reviewed. Belmar's attendance at Palau went some way to
broadening St. Vincent and the Grenadines' participation in this
exercise.
But while
on his overseas stint, Belmar was impressed with the culture and
tradition of Palau. He recalled passing November 23 twice, seeing
the sun set twice that day.
Belmar carried
the St. Vincent and the Grenadines
flag on his Palau mission, and left a copy on that part of
the globe. The combination of ancient and western cultures that
exists on Palau was of particular significance to him.
He reflected
on his trip as a 'worthwhile educational venture', one which opened
'avenues for learning about culture and understanding the people.'
His connection
with the Small Islands Voice programme deepened his interest in
the linkage with other small states. And he was of the view that
'the decision to work together as Small Island States means a
lot'.
Palau has
a population of 10,000 fortified with 5,000 migrant workers. A
massive road building project there and relocation of the capital
site provide employment for the migrant population.
Palau's underwater
beauty was simply astounding to Belmar and he described the scenery
as 'fascinating.'
Not surprising
for a small island territory, fishing forms a vital part of the
nation's economy. And along with farming, it supplies the basis
of the nation's food supply. Cassava and dasheen are consumed
with a passion. Their system of government has a touch of American
influence, but the 16 Chiefs serve as traditional leaders even
though there is a Senate. What Belmar found interesting is that
it is a matriarchal society where the women virtually wield the
strings of power. They whisper into the men's ears and the men
speak on their behalf, was how Belmar pointed it out.
US currency
is used on the streets, but stone money is regarded as the real
wealth.
Belmar is
keen in expanding the work in sustainable development and hopes
to see the youth programme go beyond 2004. There are plans for
combining the Youth Forum with a Sandwatch undertaking. This is
an extra-curricular activity which entails the gathering of data
surrounding what is happening with the country's shoreline.
Searchlight,
6 December 2002
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