<B>1. Public Speaking Competition 2005</B>

The English-Speaking Union is organising its 12th annual ‘Public Speaking Competition’ for schools. This competition is open to all registered secondary schools of Mauritius. Participants must be citizens of Mauritius and between ages 16 and 20, i.e, not younger than 16 or older than 20 on 1st May 2005. It is about the ability to speak in public in English for five minutes. The winner of the final will represent Mauritius at the ‘International Public Speaking Competition’ in London, UK in May. Heats will be organised in all school zones starting as from January 2005. The national final will be in March 2005.

Schools interested should contact the English-Speaking Union – telephone/fax: 208-8591.

<B>2. Commonwealth Essay Competition 2005 - Write Around the World</B>

The Royal Commonwealth Society in London has appointed the English-Speaking Union (ESU Mauritius) as their official coordinator in Mauritius for the Commonwealth Essay Competition.

The essay competition is open to primary and secondary schools.

	<B>Class		Age		Prize</B>

	 A		  16-18 years		1st £600

	 B		  14-15 years		1st £350

	 C		  12-13 years		1st £250

	 D		  Under 12 years	1st £150

For details and entry forms, please contact The English-Speaking Union. Telephone/fax: 208-8591. The deadline for submission of essays is 4 February 2005.