Dominican children at two schools on-island are in for a treat as the new school year commences, thanks to the Rotary Club of Portsmouth (RCP) successfully completing and opening new school playgrounds in the respective facilities, in September. The Club wrote in a press release that this marks a significant step in its ongoing initiative to provide safe and engaging recreational spaces for children throughout Dominica.
It also outlined that the first new playground was officially inaugurated at Temple SDA Primary School on September 8; a project made possible through the generous support of Republic Bank (EC) Limited Dominica, which contributed via its Power to Make a Difference Program. Salybia Primary School is the second beneficiary of the initiative, with installation on September 16, receiving notable assistance from Her Excellency Sylvanie Burton, President of the Commonwealth of Dominica, and financial backing from a grant awarded by Rotary District 7030.
These recent developments follow the earlier establishment of a playground at Savanne Paille Primary School in September 2024, bringing the total number of completed projects to three. Each project aligns with the club’s long-term objective of equipping primary schools across Dominica with safe, stimulating play areas, said the organization. The team reports that planning is already underway for a fourth playground, scheduled to be launched in the upcoming months.
“These playgrounds represent our commitment to building brighter futures for Dominican children,” said Marianne Wijnands, President of the Rotary Club of Portsmouth, emphasizing the significance of these efforts.
“By working with partners such as Republic Bank, Rotary District 7030, and with the encouragement of Her Excellency, we are creating opportunities for our children to learn, grow, and thrive through play,” she added.
Lizra Fabien, chair of the club’s Service Projects committee, also highlighted the importance of the initiative, noting, “Play is essential to child development, and through this initiative, we are ensuring that children in Dominica have access to safe and stimulating play spaces. We are deeply grateful for the partnerships that make this possible and we invite others to join us as we work toward installing playgrounds at every school in the country.”
The Rotary Club of Portsmouth also called on individuals, businesses, and organizations who share this vision to participate in the effort. The release stated that contributions, collaborations, or introductions to potential supporters are welcomed and will help accelerate progress, “help ensure that every Dominican child has access to safe and joyful spaces for growth and play.”
Listen to the audio media statement below:
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