Emmanuel High takes top spot in food competition

The culinary skills of students throughout the country were given a place to shine at the East Caribbean Group of Companies (ECGC) Home Economics Food Competition on Friday March 24 at the Peace Memorial Hall.

But it was Maxine James of the Emmanuel High School Mesopotamia who captured the top prize of a trophy and $1000 for her dish called, “Plantain Sweet Bread,” while her school, the Emmanuel High School Mesopotamia also copped the top award in Home Economics.{{more}}

In second position in the individual category was Janique John of the Technical College with “Sunshine Undercover Pizza” and third went to Rickier Bushay of Georgetown Secondary for her “Sorrel Pie” dish.

Alanza Daisley of the Organising Committee noted that the competition was not just a chance for students to showcase their work, but was for many a turning point which might possibly lead to a career in the culinary arts. She noted that the students were required to prepare attractive and nutritious dishes using ECGC products.

Daisley pointed out that 84 participants from educational institutions and one private candidate all participated in the competition.

Reinforcing the need for more professionals in the culinary arts was ECGC Marketing Manager, Martin Laborde. The executive noted that food preparation was a combination of art and science, and more males in the country need to consider being a chef as these professionals are highly paid.

He noted that his company has been sponsoring the event for 12 years and will continue to do so, but they will also seek to publish a cookbook and print several recipes on the packages of their products.

Acting Deputy Chief Education Officer, Luis De Shong welcomed the support from ECGC and praised the students and teachers for their work. He noted that the education department is working vigorously to improve technical and vocational education in the country.