The courage, resilience and determination of the Indian indentured labourers who landed on our shores between 1845 and 1917 are critical to the survival of all of us in Trinidad and Tobago as we learn to adjust to the new normal that has been thrust upon us.
The intrepid immigrants hailed from various cities and regions across India, such as Bombay, Madras, Agra, and Bihar, and were an eclectic mix of peoples, customs, languages and beliefs, united in the pursuit of a better future. Fortunately for Trinidad and Tobago, many opted to remain after their contracts expired and planted roots here, continuing to work diligently to overcome sundry obstacles—social, religious, economic¬— and secure for themselves an equal place in their adopted homeland. Over the years, our nation has reaped the benefits of the hard work, perseverance and fidelity to heritage of those early pioneers. Beyond the outward cultural manifestations of music, food and dance that are now an indelible part of the mosaic that is Trinidad and Tobago, the values and principles that underpin their traditions have contributed to the strength, stability and prosperity of our country. As beneficiaries of their proud and lasting legacy, we must all ensure that the ties which unite us prevail over those which divide. On this 175th anniversary of the arrival of the Fatel Razack, we are inspired by the bonds of brotherhood that sustained those valiant voyagers both on their perilous journey to the New World and as they settled in an unfamiliar land. We, like them, find ourselves in challenging and uncertain circumstances and must forge ahead with vision, grit and hope for a favorable outcome. The restrictions that have curtailed today’s customary festivities must in no way dampen our spirit of celebration as we commemorate this most significant chapter of our country’s history. I extend sincere wishes to the Indian community and all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago for a happy, healthy and safe Indian Arrival Day
Fellow citizens,
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Children from the Aspirare Learning Community visited the Office of the President today for a tour of The President’s House and grounds. The children had the opportunity to feed the fish in one of the ponds on the compound, ride in the Presidential car and interact with members of the Defence Force, including a soldier wearing a ghillie suit, which is a type of camouflage clothing designed to help the wearer blend in with natural environments. To close off their tour, the children, accompanied by their teachers and parents, serenaded tour personnel with two songs. We hope that they all had an enjoyable and memorable experience.
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#ICYMI November's Storytime at The President's House, visit otp.gov.tt or click on the link for the full albumshorturl.at/SJoKy#storytime #officeofthepresidentt
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#HappeningNowIt’s Storytime at The President’s House again and today we have 43 students all excited to read with Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo ORTT, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. Her Excellency engaged with the students as they read excerpts from Ky’s Magical Adventures, Where the garbage goes by Siam Cuffy- Young. Reading and comprehension are important elements of the initiative as the students discuss the story with Her Excellency at intervals. The initiative seeks to promote literacy, comprehension and the love of reading in children as it helps students develop confidence through public speaking. It also provides an opportunity for students to share their thoughts on reading, their passions, creativity and imagination. Her Excellency encouraged the students to keep reading and shared the benefits of reading in their lives. The standard 3 students participating in today’s installment are from Curepe Fatima RC, Chickland RC and St. Anthony’s Girls’ Primary schools. The programme has already received applications for academc year 2024/2025.#literacy #loveofreading #youthdevelopment#from
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The Office of the President was delighted to welcome students of the Malick Secondary School for a tour of The President’s House and grounds this morning. After viewing a short video on the role and function of the President, they explored the grounds, identified hidden soldiers and learned about a bivouac, which is a temporary shelter used by Defence Force personnel during training or operations. The tour continued inside the Great House where the young people re-enacted the Presentation of Credentials ceremony, signed the visitor’s book, and were even serenaded by a talented fellow student playing the steelpan. We hope the students had a wonderful time!
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The Office of the President of the Republic of T&T
The Office of the President of the Republic of T&T updated their cover photo.
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The Office of the President of the Republic of T&T's cover photo
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