TUCO's call for increased prize money compels us to collectively reflect and perhaps radically review the current practice.Perhaps our economists and social scientists can better determine the merits/demerits of the million-dollar prizes that are awarded to winners (calypso, chutney, steelbands, stick fighters and monarchs/costumes).
I believe this practice is counterproductive and leads inexorably to escalating expenditure that is totally unrelated to returns (both monetary and socially). At best these expenditures cannot be sustained.There is urgent need for a broad-based review that also includes how public recognition and national awards are made.
There are numerous monuments and named public places and spaces etc, that pay tribute to our cultural icons. By way of contrast, there are not many of these dedicated to the memory of our prominent men and women in the other areas of society (sciences, mathematics, inventors, business etc).
Aren't we unwittingly and mindlessly influencing our children in a particular direction? The fundamental question is: Is this really the kind of society we wish to create?
Samuel B Howard,
via e-mail