Education Students join contest to promote English skills
The 14th edition of the Macau-wide English Speech Contest took place over the weekend. The final stage had 62 contestants, divided into 6 categories.
The Macau Polytechnic Institute auditorium was transformed into the stage of dreams for students of several ages performing to their best under the overall theme of “Global Values”.
The contest rules require that each age group develop their speeches under a specific topic. This year, the Lower and Upper Primary school categories spoke about “My Favorite Place” and “I Believe I Can…” describing the qualities of their environment, and their beliefs and aspirations, sharing their intimate view of their our world.
“Social Justice” and “Friendship” were the topics that drew the attentions of Senior and Junior High School Categories, with the students eloquently speaking about alleviation of poverty among other social justice issues, as well as commitment and feelings towards each other.
For the older students’ categories – College and Open – the set topic was on “Citizenship in the 21st Century”, leading to some very interesting views on this matter.
The event was also an opportunity for Professor Roland Sussex, speaking on behalf of the judges, to impart a few ideas to the contestants about how to become an even better speaker.
The contest distributed a total of 40 awards and prizes in all categories, totaling MOP144, 000.
The Macau-wide English Speech Contest was established in 2002 with the purpose of promoting the use of English in Macau in the era of globalization, to encourage people from all walks of life to learn English, and to promote English language teaching. Since then, it has been organized by the Macao Polytechnic Institute with the support on many government and non-governmental organizations and associations.
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Its about time. While everyone is heading for “Putonghua” there is nothing wrong with Portuguese.
It seems as though that tomorrow the Whole World is going to speak Mandarin.
It not just Speaking the Lingo, its Understanding and being able to Read and Write it too is a must.
Trying to Master this now, by the time we are thorough this can be Eternity.
Take Taiwan for an example, there from the time a child could “Utter” Mandarin is spoken, never mind the rest of world.
My feelings are if Portuguese is used Mastered to Perfection one would find Spanish isn’t that far away, like Portuguese in Brazil.
Also, if we think for a moment that I would spend my Entire Life here and don’t give two damns of the rest outside us, its one’s choice.
Please stop rubbing it in that Chinese and Portuguese are the most Important Languages used.
If allowed to continue your Aim here will never find its Target.
Brazil is by no means a small place either, Population Wise, its nothing like India or China, none the less Spanish and Portuguese is just as important.
As stated here before, we need not have to be Reminded Over and Over of the two Official Languages.
It is never too late to Catch-Up with our English.
I am glad that someone here took the time to realize the importance of having English used more widely here in Macao.
Francisco (Mr.)