The Ministry of Education’s Allied Arts Unit has confirmed that it disqualified a young singer in the Children’s Mashramani Calypso competition, declaring that the calypso piece did not follow the rules of the competition.
The song about the cost of living and the recent 6.5% salary increase for public servants has become a hit on social media. The young calypsonian from Berbice, in her song, wanted to know how she would be able to survive with a 6.5, highlight the increase of food items in the market place and bills that have to be paid regularly.
The Education Ministry has now ensured that she and her song did not survive the competition, disqualifying her completely.
In a statement, the Education Ministry’s Allied Arts Unit said its decisions are based on established rules that have been in place for many years, specifically focusing on the appropriateness of items in relation to age groups.
The Unit said two items were rejected, and the respective schools were duly advised with transparent communication on the reasons behind the decisions.
The Allied Arts Unit said it asserts its unwavering commitment to positions of respect, civility, values, ethics, morals, and standards.
According to the Unit, the focus is on ensuring that the content presented aligns with the age appropriateness stipulated by the rules set well in advance of the competition, adding that It is crucial to highlight that the intention is not to censor satirical content but to maintain age-appropriate standards.
The Allied Arts Unit reportedly has a rule for the children’s competition that their calypso pieces should not be political in nature. However, scores of persons online who have listened to the song said they believe it is more about social commentary and made no political references.
Some persons on Facebook commented under a video recording of the song and said they believe that the child has been treated unfairly by the Ministry of Education and the organisers of the Children’s Calypso Competition.
WATCH the disqualified calypso piece
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