- Prime Minister makes appeal to youths to capitalise on gov’t policies, programmes
batch of Nursing Assistants complete first-ever hybrid training programme
- will be placed at existing, new health facilities
- Education Minister reassures NGSA candidates ahead of exams - maintains all educational facilities being upgraded to provide quality learning Guyana on track for one million barrels of oil per day as fourth FPSO arrives
- APNU Councillor says, rejects persistent vilification of Afro-Guyanese who throw their support behind President Ali-led administration
‘You
have all our love, our support’
- Education Minister reassures NGSA students ahead of exams
- maintains all educational facilities being upgraded to provide quality learning
EDUCATION Minister
Priya Manickchand offered heartfelt encouragement to the thousands of Grade Six students across Guyana preparing to sit the critical National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) today and tomorrow.
Candidates will write four subjects: Mathematics, English, Science and Social Studies. Each subject consists of two papers. Paper One contains multiple choice questions while Paper Two includes essay type or open-ended questions.
Speaking directly to the nation’s children, Manickchand urged calm, confidence, and courage as they prepare to take the next step in their academic journey.
“You have all our love, all our support and a commitment by us that it does not matter what school you get,” she said reassuringly.
The minister added: “You will be able to do well at that school because we are making the same investments in every school regarding infrastructure, textbooks, trained teachers, and lab equipment.”
Framing the NGSA as a stepping stone in the educational process, Manickchand reminded pupils that the assessment does not determine failure or success.
Instead, she emphasised that it simply places students in a secondary school.
“This is a beautiful time,” she said, adding: “Do not be nervous, do not be afraid, do not be worried. This is another stage to get into high school, and you will get into high school because nobody fails these exams. It is a placement exam.”
Minister Manickchand also offered practical exam
Education Minister Priya Manickchand
advice—guiding students on how to approach both Paper One and Paper Two of the NGSA.
For Paper Two, she advised: “Do what you know. This is stuff you have been preparing for over the last eight years. It’s the same things you’ve been learning. Don’t get confused if you see a question—read it, read
it twice if you don’t quite get it the first time. Calm yourself. Think about what the answer could be and put that down.”
She continued with tips for the multiple-choice segment: “For Paper One: If you know the answer, then pick it. If you don’t, then eliminate the ones that cannot be the answer.”
Highlighting the ministry’s continued efforts to reform the education sector, Manickchand reaffirmed that every secondary school in Guyana is being upgraded to provide quality learning
She emphasised that pupils—regardless of which school they are placed at— will have access to a wide range of subjects and options for academic success.
“Go into your assessments with full confidence that you will write what you know,” she told students, adding: “Whatever happens, you will be fine, because we are going to look after you in secondary school, with varied options for how you can do your schooling and what subjects you can do.”
Turning her attention to the educators who helped guide students through their academic journey, Manick-
chand expressed gratitude, noting: “To the teachers: I thank you. You have done well for our children.”
The minister also thanked the extended network of support behind the students—the parents, grandparents, and guardians who ensured they stayed on track.
She acknowledged that the current cohort of NGSA students endured unprecedented challenges, having spent nearly two years learning from home during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Manickchand said the assessment will be based on the Grade Five curriculum. Despite these hurdles, she praised their resilience and commitment to learning.
Minister Manickchand reminded pupils to bring along their government-issued stationery kits, which include pencils, rulers, and sharpeners, as well as their timetables.
As is customary, candidates must be seated at least 30 minutes before the start of both the morning and afternoon sessions of the examinations. Additionally, pupils are required to sit according to their NGSA candidate numbers to ensure proper exam protocol is followed.
Arrangements have been made to support Spanish-speaking children.
The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) leads the administration of the NGSA. CXC is responsible for preparing the examination, overseeing its administration, marking the scripts, performing quality checks, and carrying out reviews when requested.
‘Grab at all the opportunities we create’
By Naomi Parris
PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips has urged youths across the nation to embrace the wealth of opportunities being provided through government programmes and policies.
“Guyana is changing, and it is changing rapidly. Many of us can't even keep up with some of the changes, but it's important for our young people to grab all the opportunities being presented to you today,”
Prime Minister Phillips told residents at a community outreach at Paradise, Region Five, on Tuesday.
Citing initiatives in higher education and vocational training, he emphasised that these avenues are vital steppingstones to personal success and national progress.
The Prime Minister said: “If you want to be a nurse, you want to be a doctor, you want to be an engineer, you want to be [a] mechanic, you want to be an electrician, you want to be a welder…we have training facilities throughout the length and breadth of Guyana.”
He added: “Our young people have no excuse. Get on board, get an education, get a skill and contribute to the development of Guyana and participate in ensuring that you gain from the prosperity that is available today in Guyana.”
As Guyana transforms into a modern, dynamic economy, young people with technical skills and education are key to driving progress and innovation.
“Guyana needs all the technicians, all the engineers we can get right now,” Prime Min-
-
Prime Minister makes appeal to youths to capitalise on gov’t policies, programmes
ister Phillips said. GENERATIONAL PROSPERITY
Further reaffirming commitment to social welfare, Local Government and Regional Development Minister, Sonia Parag, said that community engagements remain a key component of the government’s efforts in ensuring that every community across the country is touched by development.
“While I stand here, it is not only to tell you about all the great things that are being done, but it's also to make sure that we hear from you, the things that we could do to better your lives. And that is what leadership is supposed to look like. That is what responsible governments are supposed to look like, and that's what responsible leadership is supposed to look like.” Parag told the gathering.
She further highlighted the construction of several community roads, the establishment of community centres and the provision of educational and financial support.
The minister said: “When we roll out the policy, it's not because it rained today… it’s for your long-term benefit and it will move from me to you, to your children, to their children, because that is what generational prosperity is supposed to look like.”
Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips has urged youths across the nation to embrace the wealth of opportunities being provided through government programmes and policies (Japheth Savory photos)
100,000 candidates from across the Caribbean registered for 2025 examination period
- CXC CEO discloses, announces September roll out of new qualification
THE Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) on Tuesday announced the start of the May-June 2025 examinations period with over 100,000 candidates registered This was disclosed by CXC’s Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Wayne Wesley, during a virtual press conference.
According to Dr Wesley, the examination season begins with the customary oral examinations in modern foreign languages such as Spanish, French and Portuguese.
For the 2025 period, he revealed that over 100,000 candidates from across the region have been registered to sit more than 600,000 subject entries and this will be a mammoth undertaking by the council.
“The team has worked hard to ensure that everything is in place for the successful administration of the examination,” he said.
With this, the CEO offered words of encouragement to candidates sitting this year’s examination and urged
them to remain cool and calm while being confident that their preparation work will take them through successfully.
Meanwhile, Dr Wesley told the news conference that the council is going through a strategic repositioning which marks the beginning of its transformation effort focusing on modernising its governance system and organisational redesign.
As part of this effort, he disclosed that a new qualification has been developed called the Caribbean Targeted Education Certificate (CTEC) which will be at the same standard as CSEC and CAPE.
“It is our qualification that currently will be at the same standard as CSEC and CAPE. It will be utilising the same syllabus. It will focus on related and relevant learning outcomes as well as providing for progressive achievement of competencies,” he said.
According to him, the certificate will be a micro-credential and will be awarded to students who have successfully achieved a module.
Delving into details, Dr Wesley stated, “The approaches to CTEC will be subject based and this will be assessment based on the syllabus
qualifications that we offer, and it is discipline specific…CTEC will be a based approach where assessment will be based on competencies achieved through real-life scenarios and situations.”
He went on to add that a lot more flexibility will be available to students in achieving and demonstrating the level of competencies acquired.
The process for implementation has started with both Mathematics and English, which he noted will be done across three modules, all of which will be assessed independently. The combination of all three will provide for the award of full certification.
While a lot of work
has happened already, the pilot for the CTEC certification is expected to be rolled out in September, 2025, with the first certificate to be awarded in 2026 when the first set of candidates will be writing that examination.
“The CTEC outcomes offer several benefits, that of a better-equipped workforce, cluster of related and relevant competencies that students ought to acquire. The validation of progress and achievement as they progress through the school system, employment and or matriculation as well as maintaining the same standard of the qualification catering to individualised goals,” he remarked.
CXC’s Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Wayne Wesley
Guyana on track for one million barrels of oil per day as fourth FPSO arrives
GUYANA’S offshore oil production continues to surge with the arrival of the fourth Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, “ONE GUYANA,” which is poised to push national output close to one million barrels per day (bpd) once operations commence later this year.
The vessel, which arrived in Guyana’s waters this week, will support ExxonMobil’s Yellowtail development in the prolific Stabroek Block.
Built by SBM Offshore, the FPSO has a production capacity of 250,000 bpd and a storage capacity of two million barrels.
Once operational, it will increase Guyana’s daily production to approximately 900,000 barrels — solidifying the country’s rise as a major oil-producing nation in under a decade.
Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat hailed the vessel as “a powerful symbol of progress,” highlighting that beyond barrels, the project is generating economic opportunities, job creation, and local capacity-building.
“This is about changing lives and empowering communities,” he said.
The vessel joins the trio of FPSOs already in operation — Liza Destiny, Liza Unity, and Prosperity — all of which are currently operating above their nameplate capacities.
Together, these FPSOs have helped ExxonMobil and its co-venturers Hess and CNOOC achieve key production milestones, including a year-end target of 500 million barrels extracted since the first oil in 2019.
With the addition of
ONE GUYANA, the consortium is now on track to achieve its longterm target of 1.3 million bpd by 2027, once all six planned FPSO projects are up and running, backed by an estimated US$55 billion investment.
To celebrate the arrival of the vessel and to spotlight the positive social impact of the Yellowtail project, the government has announced a “Yellowtail Local Street Festival” scheduled for May 3, 2025.
The festival will celebrate Guyanese culture, cuisine, and talent, while showcasing how the oil and gas sector is driving
transformation across the country.
The ONE GUYANA FPSO was constructed under SBM Offshore’s Fast4Ward® programme— a standardised design model that reduces time-to-market while ensuring robust performance. It includes a new-build multipurpose hull and modular topside systems.
Beyond its oil-production capabilities, the vessel is equipped with gas-treatment capacity of 450 million cubic feet per day and water-injection capacity of 300,000 barrels per day. It will be moored at a depth of 1,800 metres.
developmental impact of Guyana’s oil boom is hard to overstate and since first production in December 2019, more than US$5.4 billion in oil revenues and royalties have been deposited into the country’s Natural Resource Fund.
In terms of local content, ExxonMobil Guyana continues to surpass expectations and today, approximately 6,000 Guyanese make up nearly 70 percent of the workforce operating in the Stabroek Block.
Yellowtail, the development it will support, features six drill centres and up to 51 wells. The entire operation mirrors a maturing offshore industry, increasingly built on partnerships with local suppliers and service providers.
In March 2023, SBM hosted a steel-strike ceremony to mark local fabrication work involving companies such as Industrial Fabrications Inc. (InFab), Guyana Oil and Gas Support Services Inc. (GOGSSI), and Zeco Group of Services.
The financial and
The government has also underlined its commitment to transparency and sustainability in the sector’s development, with a focus on ensuring that all Guyanese benefit from the country’s resource wealth, especially since the establishment of the Local Content Act.
ExxonMobil Guyana’s Production Manager, Huzefa Ali, called the arrival of the vessel “a testament to the unwavering collaboration between our team, the government, and industry partners.”
He added, “We are proud to play a pivotal role in shaping the ener-
gy landscape of Guyana, while fostering sustainable development and empowering the communities we serve.”
Guyana is now the third-largest oil producer per capita in the world — a major ascent for a country that started producing oil commercially just over five years ago.
As ExxonMobil Guyana ramps up production with its partners Hess (30 percent stake) and CNOOC (25 percent), global attention is increasingly fixed on this South American nation.
As it relates to the fifth FPSO, Errea Wittu which means “abundance” in Warrau language, construction is currently underway and will be located on ExxonMobil’s Uaru project. The start-up of the $12.7 billion Uaru development is targeted in 2026.
Last November, a “Steel Strike” ceremony was held to mark the start of work by three local companies to provide fabrication services for Guyana’s sixth FPSO vessel, the Jaguar. It will be located at ExxonMobil’s Whiptail project.
ONE GUYANA Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading vessel (FPSO) during its sailaway from Singapore
The Right to Choose
THIS trend of opposition attacks on Afro-Guyanese who choose to embrace the philosophy and throw their support behind the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) reflects an unpleasant, retrograde political agenda. Instead of embracing greater political opportunity and thinking in Guyana, persons close to the People's National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) and other opposition parties have resorted to humiliating, denigrating, and discrediting Afro-Guyanese
professionals and businesspersons who have the temerity to venture beyond the political box envisioned by some sections of society. This is not only hypocritical, but also gravely corrosive to Guyanese democracy. The opposition's "house slave" or "lick bottoms" rhetoric directed towards Afro-Guyanese PPP/C supporters is clearly an attempt to insist upon political conformity by threats and public denigration.
It is insulting to Afro-Guyanese agency and intelligence to re -
duce them to pawns in a cynically played ethnic game. The political communication is clear: Afro-Guyanese are only useful to serve at the discretion of the opposition as long as they are doing as told, not if they exercise independent thought or pursue opportunities for themselves and their communities.
Rather than celebrating the success of Afro-Guyanese who excel through hard work and choosing to be independent thinkers, the opposition attempts to undermine their legitimacy, all in the guise of being
supportive of Afro-Guyanese empowerment.
The hypocrisy is telling: their true terror is that they are in danger of losing their traditional constituency since increasing numbers of Afro-Guyanese are realising that the PPP/C is genuinely attempting to bring them in and to develop them.
The PPP/C, in turn, has registered actual gains in inclusivity and is providing opportunities to all communities, irrespective of race or political affiliation.
The record of the party in housing, education,
and economic development is there to be seen, and the growing numbers of Afro-Guyanese who have come to view their political home in the PPP/C are living evidence.
The opposition’s response to resort to divisive rhetoric and bashing those who switch over is evidence of absence of vision and traditional race politics.
Guyana's prospects depend on moving beyond such polarising tactics. Afro-Guyanese, along with all Guyanese, have their right to have their political loyalty de-
cided by themselves and seek advancement free of threats of reprisals or denunciation.
The attempts by the opposition to stifle such independence are not only antidemocratic, but necessarily destined to be unsuccessful in an increasingly developing society moving away from fear and polarisation politics. The moment is now for all Guyanese to reject such attacks and to uphold all citizens' rights to participate fully and openly in their country's construction.
We will support development and naysayers cannot silence us
Dear Editor,
I SHAUN Smith, a sitting APNU Councillor at the Region Six RDC and a community Development Officer in Region Six, write without regret or apology for the position I have taken in supporting the current administration, led by President, Dr Irfaan Ali. His transformational leadership is excep -
tional—he is genuinely working to unite Guyana, ensuring that every citizen, regardless of political affiliation, can enjoy the country’s resources.
There are forces that would prefer to see people like myself—especially Afro-Guyanese— remain in mental and material bondage. From personal experience, I can say the very party I once supported, the AP-
NU+AFC coalition, has long held a disposition of oppression.
I speak not only for myself but for many others who gave their all— family legacies, time, energy—to that party, only to remain in poverty and systematic silence.
Now, because I have openly thrown my support behind the PPP/C, I am being labelled a “soup drinker” and
“slave catcher.”
But let me be clear: blind loyalty does not define me. I am an independent thinker, far beyond the narrow walls of indoctrination. I said what I said—and I stand by it.
To others who, like me, are shifting their support and being bullied or vilified on social media, I say this: stay strong. We are the true vanguards
of change—the builders of the united Guyana we all want to see. I believe our ancestors, Dr Cheddi Jagan and Forbes Burnham, are watching from the spiritual realm and rejoicing to see Afro-Guyanese and Indo-Guyanese working together, sharing opportunities equally.
To my African brothers and sisters who are supporting this government -- continue to do so
with confidence. Do not be afraid of the naysayers or their labels. Many of these same critics never once fought for your dignity. We have the right to support leadership that uplifts all Guyanese—and we will not be silenced. I will be submitting my resignation to the APNU party shortly.
Sincerely, Shaun Smith
‘Diabolical’ use of state resources: A brief historical note
The trouble with people who enter politics is that the foot will end up in the mouth if you do not have even a small dose of familiarity with theories, concepts, and paradigms in political behaviour. Science does not govern human behaviour but over a period of time, behaviour becomes predictable.
When you enter politics you must be familiar with some general theories of governmental behaviour, and you have to have access to concepts that will guide you in understanding how governments react in different situations based on the dynamism that underlie changes in life.
Businessman, Terrance Campbell entered politics in late 2019 and dropped out only to renter the arena in 2025. He has aligned himself with the opposition. Naturally, Mr. Campbell will socialise with anti-government actors.
In that company, emotions replace analyses in many “watering-hole” hangouts. If you are a novice in politics you can
internalise some misleading things said during the lime. If you do not know better you can end up embarrassing yourself.
This was what happened to Terrace Campbell. He probably heard some extremist friend of his saying that the PPP government is using state resources in a diabolical way, and he ran with it and shouted down in a social media programme with Vishnu Bisram (the man with six Master’s Degree and six doctorates) that the Guyana Government in using resources in a diabolical way to win over other ethnic groups apart from Indian people.
This was the comical and inverted way of using the word “diabolical.”
I had devoted an entire column last Sunday to exposing Campbell’s mediocre understanding of how to use that word. What I will do now is to use the word to demonstrate how one should use it when analysing governmental behaviour. The notes here will have to [be]very brief.
There is no such thing in political theory named,
“the diabolical use of national resources” by undemocratic regimes. The word is nonchalantly used by politicians to describe the action of a president or prime minister whom they feel is misusing state resources for narrow power intentions.
Always, when you use the word “diabolical” you are pointing to a president or prime minister who utilises national resources for narrow power expansion. If a government uses the country’s resources to benefit different classes and ethnic communities to elevate them in the economy, an opposition politician will look silly to refer to that policy as diabolical.
Here now is what can be termed the diabolical use of resources. It exists in three contexts. The first is colonial subjugation where resources are used to militarise the colony to preserve foreign exploitation. The Pakistani political theorist, Hamza Alavi coined the term, “the over-developed state.” Alavi said that resources used by the colonial pow-
er to militarise colony is continued by post-colonial dictators.
We just have to look right here at home to see how the diabolical use of state resources started in the colony was carried over by the post-colonial autocrat. This is the second context of the use of the word, “diabolical.”
During the reign of Forbes Burnham, military expenditure rose from G$8.7M in 1973 to G$48.72 in 1976. In this period, one out of 35 in the population was a member of a state security entity.
These entities were: the police, the army, the National Service, the People’s Militia, the National Guard Service. (sources: Ken Danns, “Militarization and National Development,” TRANSITION, Georgetown, Vol. 1, No. 1, 1978; Sidharta Darshan, “Impact of state capital-
ism: Guyana, 1966-1980, MA Thesis in Political Science, University of Guyana, and Father Andrew Morrison, “Justice: The Struggle for Democracy in Guyana, 1952, 1992.)
The third context in which you can refer to the diabolical use of resources is superpower rivalry and great power rivalry in international relations where big powers spend a huge part of their budget on defence in the expectation that some imaginary war is coming. The USSR couldn’t afford to keep up with the Americans in the Cold War.
The US was by far a richer country. The USSR had to collapse because resources for development went into defence spending. While the USSR and the USA were diverting resources to the military, China was quietly using resources for develop -
ment purposes. It paid off. Today, China is better off than both Russia and the USA.
Campbell used the word “diabolical” to refer to resource distribution to other ethnic communities that the ruling party wants to attract. This is a positive use of funds. The ethnic communities are entitled to it and will welcome it. Secondly, by what logic can you buy a community if you spend money on them? Who says they will vote for you? Thirdly, doesn’t the country benefit when resources are spread evenly on classes and ethnic communities?
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
‘We have the right to support leadership that uplifts all Guyanese’
- APNU Councillor says, rejects persistent vilification of Afro-Guyanese who throw their support behind President Ali-led administration
EMPHASISING that he does not subscribe to racial loy alty in matters of national interest, APNU Region Six Councillor, Shaun Smith has rejected criticisms against him, and efforts to convince him he has to support the PNC/R or any other opposition party because of his ethnicity.
Smith, in a letter to the editor, endorsed President, Dr. Irfaan Ali for a second term, underscoring that all Guyanese are being uplifted under the incumbent People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).
The sitting APNU
Councillor and community Development Officer within the region said that he will soon submit his resignation letter to his party.
He also highlighted the
is not ignoring the rapid transformation that is taking place under the current government.
He said: “His (President Ali) transformational leadership is exceptional
“We have the right to support leadership that uplifts all Guyanese-and we will not be silenced.”
vilification he and other Afro-Guyanese are facing just because of exercising their democratic right.
Though, part of another political party, Smith
- he is genuinely working to unite Guyana, ensuring that every citizen, regardless of political affiliation, can enjoy the country's resources.
“There are forces that would prefer to see people like myself-especially Afro-Guyanese-remain in mental and material bondage. From personal experience, I can say the very party I once supported, the APNU+AFC coalition, has long held a disposition of oppression.”
Since making his decision public, Smith said he has been hit with verbal abuse, with some even calling him a "soup drinker."
However, he has stood firm and has said: “But let me be clear: blind loyalty does not define me. I am an independent thinker, far beyond the narrow
walls of indoctrination.
I said what I said-and I stand by it.
“To others who, like me, are shifting their support and being bullied or vilified on social media, I say this: stay strong. We are the true vanguards of change-the builders of the united Guyana we all want to see.”
Smith urged Afro-Guyanese who are enduring similar mistreatment for exercising their democratic right to resist it.
“We have the right to support leadership that uplifts all Guyanese-and we will not be silenced,” he said.
APNU Region Six Councillor, Shaun Smith
Largest batch of Nursing Assistants complete first-ever hybrid training programme
- will be placed at existing, new health facilities
By Shamar Meusa
SOME 764 persons on Monday graduated from the first hybrid nurses training programme here as Nursing Assistants and were hailed as the largest batch of students. It is expected that they will significantly boost the capacity of Guyana’s public healthcare sector.
The graduates hailing from all ten administrative regions took their oath on Tuesday at a graduation ceremony which was held at the National Cultural Centre.
Delivering an address at the ceremony, Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony noted that the hybrid programme is an innovative one that moved away from the traditional way of training nurses but ensures that more persons can be part of
the programme.
With the three existing nursing schools in Linden, New Amsterdam and in Georgetown, Dr Anthony noted that the combined intake in any given year would be no more than 200 persons.
“But given this expansion that we have embarked on, this obviously would not have been adequate, because think about it, right now, we have been working on developing 12 new hospitals, six of which we are planning to open over the next couple of months,” he said.
Against this backdrop, he stated that they had to come up with an innovative way to train people while also maintaining the same quality of training.
With several new facilities on the cards, Minister Anthony stated that health
authorities have worked with partner Mount Sinai on establishing the ideal staffing structure for each of these hospitals.
“This is a structure we have thought about. We have worked with our partners to make sure that we have the ideal numbers, and we are recruiting, we are training, and we want to retain people to serve in these functions,” the minister disclosed.
Added to this, Dr Anthony speaking directly to the 764 graduates stated that he wishes to see them also look at moving ahead in their healthcare careers.
He said that the government is creating tracks for nurses to also enter specialisations and in so doing are making courses available to them.
Meanwhile, the health minister stated that in keep-
ing with the commitment that President Dr Irfaan Ali has made, all graduates will be given jobs in the public health system. He affirmed, “So every one of you will have a job with us. So, depending on which region, we will be putting you to work at
these different facilities, but most of you, I can say will probably go to the new hospitals that we’re building.”
Meanwhile, the Deputy Director of Health Sciences Education, Chandroutie Persaud-Bahdaur while providing an overview of
the programme, disclosed that it was redesigned to be delivered using a hybrid style.
This entailed the combination of online theory which was delivered through the Coursera platform with in-person practical training and hospital rotations.
While the nursing assistant programme was reduced from 18 months to 12 months, the practical hours in skills labs and clinical settings were unchanged thus ensuring flexibility for students.
With this, students were able to learn in their respective regions as practical sessions were carried out at the various simulation centres across the country.
Throughout the programme, Persaud-Bahdaur mentioned that students were able to undergo clinical rounds at both public and private hospitals in Guyana.
Giving a breakdown of the numbers, the deputy director disclosed that 1,029 applications were received and after a thorough screening process 911 students enrolled; however, only 875 commenced studies.
With 764 persons completing the programme, she remarked that this shows an 87 per cent completion rate.
Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony (Delano Williams photos)
The largest batch of Nursing Assistants graduated on Tuesday from the first hybrid nurses training programme in Guyana
Illegal gold buyers will face prosecution - MNR warns
THE Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) and its agencies – specifically the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the Guyana Gold Board (GGB) – has reminded the public of the legal requirements for purchasing gold in Guyana.
In view of an increase in alleged gold-smuggling, the ministry issued a statement on Tuesday, em-
phasising that “only individuals or entities holding a valid gold dealer’s licence from the GGB, or a valid
trader’s licence from the GGMC, are legally permitted” to purchase gold in Guyana.
According to the
MNR, an application for a new licence or the renewal of an existing licence does not grant any legal authority to conduct gold-trading activities.
The ministry said that all pending applications for trading licences in gold and precious stones must await the formal and official
issuance of their license prior to engaging in any such transactions.
“Anyone caught contravening this, or buying gold without a valid licence, will be prosecuted in accordance with the laws of Guyana,” the ministry warned.
The ministry stated that it, along with its agencies, remains committed to enforcing the laws regulating the mining and trade of mineral resources in Guyana. It also reaffirmed its dedication to taking all necessary measures to ensure transparency and legality within the sector.
Guyana calls for inclusive global AI governance at Hong Kong forum
- Minister McCoy urges leading nations to share expertise with Global South
ARTIFICIAL Intelligence
(AI) must not become a tool for deepening global inequality, but should instead serve as a platform for the creation of opportunities that are accessible to all, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy, said on Monday at the World Internet Conference – Asia-Pacific Summit in Hong Kong.
sised that small states and developing countries must be included in shaping the global digital order.
Delivering Guyana’s national statement at the Sub-Forum on Large Artificial Intelligence Models, Minister McCoy empha -
“The future we want is one where AI is not a privilege of the few but a platform of opportunity for all,” he told the gathering, which included top-level represen-
Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy
tatives from government, academia, and the tech industry.
McCoy outlined Guyana’s vision for Artificial Intelligence as a strategic tool to drive inclusive growth and national transformation.
“For Guyana, Artificial Intelligence is not just a technology, it is a strategic tool for inclusive growth, equity in public service and long-term sustainability.
“AI sits at the heart of our transformative development agenda, which aims to enhance governance, education, health, agriculture, and environmental stewardship,” he said.
He said that AI is already playing a central role in the country's development agenda, from improving public services and automating government systems to integrating AI into education and preparing young people for leadership in the digital economy.
In healthcare, agriculture, and environmental stewardship, AI is also being used to strengthen national systems and support Guyana’s global position as a carbon-negative country.
McCoy also pointed to the development of Silica City, Guyana’s first smart urban development, which is being designed with AI-powered infrastructure to improve mobility, energy use, housing, and public safety.
He described the project as a model for sustainable, climate-resilient living, demonstrating how AI can be used not only to modernise but also to humanise urban development.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by small nations in accessing AI resources and research capabilities, McCoy called on leading countries with advanced digital systems to share their expertise and extend technical co-operation to the global South.
He urged the international community to invest in long-term partnerships that go beyond occasional dialogue, advocating for shared research platforms, resource transfers and capacity-building initiatives that empower developing countries to meaningfully participate in AI innovation.
The minister further stressed that the develop -
ment of large AI models must be rooted in ethical practices, with data that is diverse, representative and culturally sensitive.
Without proper governance and inclusive standards, he warned, AI could become a driver of exclusion and exploitation rather than empowerment.
“As we approach the Second World Summit on Social Development, the message is clear: technology must serve people. Guyana is ready not only to adopt AI but to help shape its global evolution—ensuring that the voices of small states and underserved communities are not left behind,” McCoy said.
The World Internet Conference – Asia-Pacific Summit, which was hosted under the auspices of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the People’s Republic of China, brought together policymakers and experts from across the region to address the future of digital governance and large-scale artificial intelligence development.
Every effort being made to extinguish Linden sawmill fire
- PM Phillips assures, says residents will be relocated to shelters if necessary
By Cindy Parkinson-Chowbay
PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret'd) Mark Phillips and Minister of Pub-
lic Works, Bishop Juan Edghill were on Tuesday provided with a comprehensive overview of the current situation in Amelia’s Ward, Linden, where a fire has been burning for several days now.
The two government officials were at the time
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Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips; Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill; representatives from the GFS, the CDC, GWI, and the private sectors at the sawmill dump site in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice), where the fire erupted almost a week ago. The sawmill started operations more than 30 years ago (OPM photos)
Every effort being made...
FROM PAGE 13
visiting the Waaldijk Sawmill where the blaze had erupted.
PM Phillips has since affirmed that the government will continue to work on providing the requisite equipment and resources to the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), and the private operators who have been instrumental in containing the fire.
He stated that although they have successfully contained the fire, the efforts to extinguish the fire are ongoing. He said that the area is being doused with water to suppress the fire and ultimately extinguish it.
The prime minister stated that although he was overseas at the time of the disaster, he wishes to assure all residents of Linden that the government will exhaust all efforts to provide relief to those affected.
“We've been able to contain the fire. What we are going to do now is continue our efforts to suppress the smoke that is affecting the people that are living in proximity to the location of the fire.
From the government standpoint, we are treating this as a man-made disaster, and therefore, as the national coordinator for disasters in Guyana, I am here...with Minister Edghill, who is always on the ground,” he said.
Further, he stressed that if the situation escalates and the smoke intensifies, the government will be compelled to relocate individuals to shelters that the CDC has already designated.
Noting that the health of the residents is their number one priority, he emphasised that the government is prepped and ready to assist the affected communities.
Meanwhile, Minister Edghill assured Lindeners that no one should worry about being neglected or the fire spreading.
According to him,
“Just to assure all of Linden, there is nothing more that can be done that is not done.”
Minister Edghill stated that while the government is providing support and resources to the firefighters and other key individuals on the ground, it is imperative that the fire department be commended for maintaining its course in the exercise since the fire started.
“There was a coming together of private sector and government resources to deal with the issue. People might not appreciate it, but what they did was dig all around and isolate the burning area from everything else.
“There is a distinguished Lindener that I must mention, and that is Mr. Andrew Forester, who has taken on a role in this situation that is remarkable, and I must thank him,” he added.
Furthermore, the PM and Minister Edghill both expressed their appreciation to the GFS, CDC, GWI, and private operators for their exceptional efforts in mobilising resources and going above and beyond to ensure that the fire was contained in a single area.
Residents who are impacted by the smoke inhalation are also encouraged to wear their masks daily until the situation is completely under control.
Finally, the region, the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC), the government, and the sawmillers were encouraged by the EPA representative who was also present on the site on Tuesday morning to collaborate and develop a strategy to prevent a similar situation from reoccurring.
The minister also noted that one of the primary objectives is to identify alternate locations for the disposal of sawmill waste and garbage.
Both government officials were optimistic that the fire will be completely under control in time for Linden Town week, which is set to be held in less than two weeks' time.
Ghalee Khan remanded over ex-girlfriend’s murder
HOURS after being discharged for the hospital, United States (US) drug trafficking convict and security owner, Ghalee Khan was, on Tuesday, remanded to prison for the fatal shooting of his reputed ex-girlfriend, 30-year-old Marissa Beete.
Khan, 47, of Henry Avenue, Lamaha Springs, Georgetown, appeared at the Wales Magistrates’ Court and was not required to plead to the capital offence which alleged that, on April 8, 2025, he murdered Beete at her Recht-Door-Zee, West Bank Demerara home. He was remanded to prison until May 27.
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United States (US) drug trafficking convict and security owner, Ghalee Khan (Royston Drakes Production photo)
Ghalee Khan remanded over....
FROM PAGE 16
The Police had reported that initial investigations revealed that the couple’s two-year relationship ended recently due to a misunderstanding.
Around 16:15hrs on the day in question, Beete was at home with her 62-year-old mother when she received a
call from Khan, a security officer attached to Integrated Security Service, who related that he wanted to speak with her.
“Despite her mom rebuking her for doing so, Marissa opened the door and invited the suspect into the house. The 62-year-old woman stated that she got up and went to the back of the
house, giving the suspect and her daughter privacy. Sometime after, the woman said she heard her daughter call out ‘mommy’, followed by a loud explosion,” the police said.
The woman rushed to the living room where she saw her daughter in a slouched position on the ground with what appeared to be blood
coming from her head.
“At the time, the suspect was standing with what appeared to be a gun over the victim’s head. The 62-year-old woman said she ran and held on to the suspect, who fired another shot in an unknown direction,” the police said, adding that Khan subsequently shot himself once in the head.
Both Beete and Khan were taken to the West Demerara Hospital where Marissa succumbed to her injuries. Khan was released from the hospital hours prior to his court arraignment on Tuesday.
The police related that Beete’s body was checked for marks of violence and one bullet-like wound was seen
above her right eye. Further, at the scene, three live rounds of ammunition were found.
In 2021, Khan was handed a nine-year prison sentence in New York for drug trafficking and jumping bail. This publication understands that the convict was deported to Guyana sometime last year.
CCJ gets first Nigerian-Canadian judge
- as Justice Ebo-Osuji sworn in
JUSTICE Chile Eboe-Osuji of Nigeria and Canada, was sworn in as
a Judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), on Tuesday.
According to a press release from the CCJ, the President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Christine Carla Kangaloo, O.R.T.T., administered the oath of office at The President’s House, in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
At the ceremony, CCJ President, Adrian Saunders, in describing the process for the recruitment of Judges, remarked: “One of, if not the most sacred
role carried out by the RJLSC is the appointment of Judges of the CCJ. The selection and appointment process is rigorous, competitive, merit-based and entirely independent of any political involvement.”
He also welcomed Justice Eboe-Osuji, re -
Justice Eboe-Osuji, the Justice Chile Eboe-Osuji
marking: “Mr Justice Eboe-Osuji has an impeccable record of service as a lawyer and jurist... I have no doubt that [he] will make an important contribution to the development of our Caribbean jurisprudence.”
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CCJ gets first Nigerian-Canadian...
first Nigerian-Canadian to be appointed to the Court, was selected from a pool of 26 applicants by the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission (RJLSC), an independent body of 11 individuals responsible for appointing the judges and staff of the Court.
Applicants must have either served as a judge for at least five years or have a minimum of 15 years of experience in the practice or teaching of law in a state which has signed the Agreement Establishing the CCJ or a Commonwealth territory.
Additionally, candidates are evaluated on cri-
teria including high moral character, intellectual and analytical abilities, sound judgment, integrity, and an understanding of people and society.
Justice Eboe-Osuji is an international jurist who brings expertise in criminal law and human rights law to the CCJ.
He practised law as a barrister before trial courts in Nigeria and Canada, and conducted appeals before the Court of Appeal for Ontario (Canada) and the Supreme Court of Canada.
He previously served as a Judge and President of the International Criminal Court and, was the Legal Advisor to the Unit-
ed Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. He also led the writing of amicus curiae submissions to the European Court of Human Rights and the United States Supreme Court. His diverse legal background also includes several posts as a legal advisor, published author and professor.
In his remarks at the ceremony, Eboe-Osuji said: “The court serves its purpose not only as a court for CARICOM nations to resolve disputes arising from the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, but also there is no need to look beyond the seas for a final court of appeal, given the quality of judges we have
on that Bench and it is an incredible honour for me to have been selected.”
Also, speaking at the Ceremony, President Kangaloo congratulated Justice Eboe-Osuji, noting that since it was established, “the CCJ has been unswerving it the pursuit of its vision of becoming a model of judicial
excellence. Today, the CCJ has taken another important step in pursuit of the vision by adding Justice Eboe- Osuji to its ranks. Justice Eboe-Osuji is a brilliant legal mind and a gifted jurist whose long and distinguished career has as we have heard spanned many countries and institutions.”
Justice Eboe-Osuji's appointment fills the vacancy left by Justice Andrew Burgess, who retired on April 11, 2025. Judges of the CCJ are appointed to hold office until the age of 72, while the President of the Court holds office for a non-renewable term of seven years.
North Rupununi Wildlife Club Festival 2025: Celebrating nature, culture, conservation leadership
IN an atmosphere of great excitement, the two-day North Rupununi Wildlife Club festival was launched on Monday, April 14, 2025, under the theme ‘Innovate, Preserve and Protect the Future of our Culture and Nature.’
According to a press
mense artistic and cultural talent of the North Rupununi youth with a banner and costume parade, art competition, cultural dances, poems, competitive games, environmental quizzes, face painting and more. Clubs also presented their STEM projects on the opening day.
members, which underscores the immense value of this programme’s impact not only in conservation leadership but leadership as the whole.
“Iwokrama and NRDDB appreciate all the support for the 2025 Wildlife Club Festival including parents and villages leadership, Exx-
release, the opening ceremony was attended by community leaders and villagers, Iwokrama staff and volunteers, members of the diplomatic community, environmental partners and club members.
This Festival brings together over 300 participants with 18 clubs from 16 communities and is the largest community event for youth in the North Rupununi. The first Wildlife Festival was held in 2001. With an aim to make conservation fun and engaging, featured activities highlight the im-
The wildlife clubs, which were founded in early 1998 as a partnership between Iwokrama and North Rupununi District Development Board (NRDDB), promote a variety of conservation practices among community youth.
These clubs are an important part of introducing hands-on environmental education in aspects related to natural resources management and cultural heritage.
Currently, many Toshaos and village councilors of the North Rupununi communities are former wildlife clubs
“We also appreciate all the organisations that joined to share their experiences including the EMC Foundation, Protected Areas Commission, Conservation International- Guyana,
Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission. EMC Foundation also presented educational materials to the Clubs,” the press release stated.
The Wildlife Festi-
val also features traditional activities such as cotton spinning, cassava grating and archery, and will end with a featured Wildlife Costume Pageant.
onMobil Foundation, Vanda Radzik and Banks DIH.
North Rupununi Wildlife Club Festival Opening Parade (Nathan Chinapen photo)
Aranaputa Club STEM project presentation (Nathan Chinapen photo)
Gov’t dismisses IDPADA-G’s ‘nonsensical, divisive’ remarks at UN forum
MINISTER of Labour Joseph Hamilton has dismissed as “nonsensical” and “divisive” the recent comments made by Chairman of the International Decade for People of African Descent-Guyana (IDPADA-G), Vincent Alexander, which accused the government of marginalising Afro-Guyanese.
The comments were made following Minister Hamilton’s address at the United Nations Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, held at UN Headquarters in New York.
The forum, which runs under the theme, “United for reparatory justice in the age of artificial intelligence,” concludes on Thursday.
In a Tuesday interview with the Department of Public Information, Minister Hamilton said the claim bears no relation to the government’s track record.
“It’s so sad that when these guys who want to suggest that they represent people of African
descent’s interest, when they have the opportunity…they [would] rather utilise their two minutes to…bring this narrative that is profane in nature [and] has no basis in reality,” he said.
The minister added that while the forum was designed to address developmental challenges, such as those posed by artificial intelligence, individuals had used the platform to promote what he described as hate, racism, and division.
The labour minister argued that Afro-Guyanese have begun to reject what they see as an attempt to monopolise their representation.
“Vincent Alexander and IDPADA-G have assigned to themselves that they are the spokespersons for Afro-Guyanese. And daily, thousands of Guyanese are saying to them, ‘you go to hell, you don’t speak for me’,” he stated.
Responding to criticisms that the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) had failed to in-
clude an Afro-Guyanese commissioner in its delegation, the minister said this was not intentional.
“The reality is that Norris Whitter, who is a member of the ERC, was slated to come to New York…and at the late moment, he declined to come,” he explained.
Minister Hamilton stressed that the Government of Guyana remains committed to delivering inclusive development policies.
“We have rolled out educational programmes that will affect positively every Guyanese, including people of African descent. The University of Guyana, being free from this year, will affect positively thousands and tens of thousands of Afro-Guyanese…so the government’s programme is delivering to the Guyanese people [and] that includes people of African descent,” he said. (DPI)
Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton
EPA continues rigorous environmental monitoring amid persistent fire at Amelia’s Ward
AS firefighting teams continue their battle against a stubborn subsurface fire in Amelia’s Ward, Linden, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken center stage in safeguarding public health through rigorous environmental monitoring.
The fire, which began at a sawmill waste dump, has been contained within a valley but continues to smolder beneath layers of organic and waste material, producing persistent smoke that affects nearby communities.
According to a press release, the EPA’s response has focused on real-time air quality surveillance, particularly monitoring levels of carbon monoxide (CO) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), both of which are critical indicators of air pollution and respiratory risk.
According to the latest EPA findings, CO levels in the community have remained within World Health Organization (WHO) standards. However, the agency has received multiple reports of discomfort and
health impacts, especially among vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, children with asthma, and the elderly.
Residents have been advised to limit outdoor activities, keep windows and doors closed, and use N95 masks when venturing outside if smoke is heavy.
The EPA has also urged the community to remain vigilant for symptoms like breathing difficulty, coughing, dizziness, or chest tightness, and to seek immediate medical attention if severe symptoms arise.
The EPA’s ongoing monitoring is not only a public health measure but also a critical component of disaster risk management.
The agency continues to assess air quality and public health risks, providing technical guidance to the Guyana Fire Service, Civil Defence Commission (CDC), and health authorities. Should risk levels escalate, the EPA said it is prepared to issue immediate advisories to ensure timely interventions.
One Communications boosts data traffic flow with ClearSky’s Total Traffic Manager
ONE Communications has implemented ClearSky’s Total Traffic Manager (TTM) to boost data-traffic flows and improve customers satisfaction.
According to a press release, ClearSky’s TTM service empowers mobile network operators to monitor and manage mobile data traffic in real time, resulting in improved network capacity and customer satisfaction.
“By identifying traffic types and tracking available capacity across the network.
TTM can make both scheduled and immediate adjustments to the throughput of various services, including video, web browsing, and streaming music. TTM ensures that priority is given to the most critical data streams and that the network remains within optimal limits,” One Communications said. Through the deployment of TTM, One Communications achieved a 10 percent to 20 percent overall improvement by intelligently optimising video and background services for other real
time applications, without compromising customer experience.
Chief Operating Officer – Mobile, at One Communications, Randall Hewitt, said: “Our ever-growing base of customers’ appetite for data continues to grow, and we are committed to meeting that demand with smart, customer-centric solutions.
ClearSky’s TTM allows us to optimise our existing data network’s capacity, while prioritising customers by creating data plans that cater to their evolving data needs.
“We identified early on that One Communications was experiencing cell-site congestion,” said Ron Willett, Vice President and General Manager at ClearSky Technologies.
He added: “In the Caribbean, due to topography and other constraints, carriers often need to optimise and expand their networks to handle increased de -
mand. One Communications has a strong reputation for excellence and subscriber focus, which was evident throughout
our collaboration. We will continue to monitor the network and remain proactive in addressing evolving demand areas.”
IOM Chief urges greater global support to Haiti amid growing crisis
AMID a worsening humanitarian emergency in Haiti, International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Director General Amy Pope concluded a high-level visit this week urging the international community to step up and support for communities uprooted by violence and instability.
out access to shelter, water, or medical care.
More than one million people are now displaced inside of Haiti – triple the number from just a year ago. Gang control over vast areas of Port-au-Prince has forced families to flee repeatedly, leaving them with-
At the same time, nearly 200,000 Haitians were deported back from neighboring countries last year, adding pressure to already overwhelmed local systems.
“This is one of the most
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IOM Chief urges greater global support...
FROM PAGE 26
complex and urgent crises in the world, with implications for regional and global stability,” said DG Pope.
“When we invest in humanitarian support, we don’t just save lives – we build resilience and safety to help stabilise communities and reduce the conditions that cause forced migration.”
During her visit, DG Pope met with displaced families at a Port-au-Prince
site, listening to their experiences and assessing their most pressing needs.
“A mother told me she had fled her neighborhood three times in two months. She was living under a tarp with her children, with no idea where they could go next,” DG Pope said.
“These are not just statistics—they are lives caught in crisis over and over.”
DG Pope also held discussions with Haitian Government officials, including the Minister of Foreign Af-
fairs, Religious Affairs, and Haitians Living Abroad, to identify concrete ways to reinforce migration governance, broaden access to legal documentation, and strengthen reintegration.
IOM is currently leading efforts across more than 50 displacement sites including shelters, camp management, protection, and emergency water, sanitation and hygiene services – even in areas affected by violence. The organisation is also working with communities
to rehabilitate infrastructure, expand access to education and rebuild livelihoods.
Beyond immediate relief, IOM is also helping people reintegrate into communities, including through the rehabilitation of public infrastructure to expand access to essential services in areas that are hosting
displaced people.
“The Haitian people are showing remarkable strength in the face of unthinkable hardship,” DG Pope said. “But relying on resilience alone is not a strategy. The Haitian people need support—and they need it now. The cost of inaction will not only be
measured in lives lost, but also in broader instability that affects us all.”
IOM remains committed to working alongside the Haitian people and the Haitian Government to restore safety, dignity, and opportunities for people across the country. (IOM)
‘This is about justice not charity’
- ERC Chairman says, maintains call for reparations
GUYANA’S demand for justice through reparations has been amplified on the international stage by the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), which has powerfully underscored the enduring scars of slavery, exploitation and the far-reaching consequences of colonialism.
According to a press release, the ERC is participating in the United Nations Permanent Forum of People of African Descent (PFPAD4) at the UN Headquarters in New York, from April 14-17, 2025 and is being represented by Shaikh Moeenul Hack, Chairman of the ERC.
Commissioner Norris Witter, who was unanimously approved by the commission to attend the forum, opted out a few days before
the opening.
Also present at the forum was ERC Commissioner Ras Khafra (Deon Dick) in his capacity as representative of the Guyana Rastafarian Council.
The chairman, in his address to the United Nations PFPAD4, said: “With a population comprising more than 30 per cent of people of African descent, Guyana continues to call for
justice through reparations, justice as accountability for centuries of slavery, exploitation and the negative legacy of colonialism.”
He added to overcome the injustices, it must be acknowledged that “Reparations is also about recognition of the pain, the displacement and the generational trauma inflicted by slavery. It is also about healing and reconciliation, which form the
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Shaikh Moeenul Hack, Chairman of the ERC
‘This is about justice not...
foundation for lasting peace.”
Surrounding the chairman’s participation at the forum, the commission noted with great concern negative sentiments about his representation of the ERC.
The ERC clarified the distinction between the commission being represented and the commissioners being represented.
It must be noted that in 2023 and 2024, Commissioner Khafra was unanimously selected to represent the ERC and according to a release, in 2024, at the very last moment, Commissioner Khafra withdrew from representing the ERC and opted to represent the Guyana Rastafarian Council. In 2025, the opportunity to
attend the forum was provided to Commissioner Witter, to which there were no objections from any commissioner.
On Thursday, April 10, after 20:00hrs Commissioner Witter withdrew his intention to attend and requested Commissioner Ras Khafra as his replacement. It should be noted that travel to the forum was on April 13. Based on his current
attendance, it appears that, at the time when Commissioner Witter redrew, Commissioner Khafra was already sponsored to attend the forum as a representative of the Guyana Rastafarian Council.
In addition, it would have necessitated a decision from the wider commission on the issue of replacement.
“The Commission wishes to state that it will not be distracted by the theatrics of persons seeking to cloud our vision and work. The ERC has consistently addressed complaints of all races and ethnicities in a fair
and transparent manner, inclusive of African Guyanese,” the ERC said.
It further maintained that the commission has consistently prioritised African culture and issues by its participation in Emancipation observances, by providing trainings on diversity, equity and inclusion, by developing a Glossary of Terms to rid the use of derogatory terms that are used to describe African Guyanese and all other ethnic groups, among other initiatives.
The ERC further said: “The ERC strongly believes that to
holistically address injustices such as reparations, the African community needs the support of all, regardless of ethnicity, to advocate for justice, for the crimes of slavery imposed on our ancestors of African descent.”
The Ethnic Relations Commission reiterated its call for reparations, as highlighted in the chairman’s remarks to the forum, where he said: “Let us use this moment to expand the support for reparations, underscoring that this is not about charity, it is about justice.”
GPHC affirms global best practices being employed for colonoscopies, other procedures
THE Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has maintained its adherence to global best practices in the execution of colonoscopies and other procedures.
This was highlighted in a detailed response issued by the hospital following concerns raised in a recent letter to the editor published in the Stabroek News on April 14, 2025, titled, “I have questions about the GPHC following a recent colonoscopy examination minus anaesthesia.”
The hospital acknowledged the discomfort experienced by the patient and expressed gratitude for the feedback, emphasising its commitment to patient safety, comfort, and quality of care.
The GPHC clarified that while sedation is commonly used in many healthcare settings to enhance patient comfort during endoscopic procedures, the hospital currently performs some endoscopic and colonoscopic procedures without routine sedation.
This practice, the GPHC said, is primarily due to the high volume of cases and the need to ensure equitable access to essential services for all patients. Despite these constraints, the hospital maintains that patient safety and comfort remain top priorities.
For upper gastrointestinal endoscopies, the GPHC utilises local anaesthetics such as lignocaine sprays to minimise discomfort. Throughout all procedures, clinical teams closely monitor patients and sedation is selectively offered to those with higher anxiety, lower pain tolerance, or specific medical indications.
The hospital’s approach is guided by patient needs, available resources, and global best practices, with a commitment to expanding access to safe sedation options as capacity grows.
To further support patients, GPHC has implemented enhanced pre-procedure counselling to set expectations, employs skilled and patient-centred procedural techniques to reduce discomfort, and carefully selects the most appropriate method for each case.
The hospital is staffed by experienced gastroenterologists who adhere to best practices in all procedures.
Addressing concerns about equipment use, the GPHC categorically reassured the public that scopes are never shared between upper and lower endoscopic procedures. The hospital currently operates with eight dedicated scopes: three for upper GI procedures, three for colonoscopies, and two for bronchoscopies.
In 2024, the GPHC performed 13,857 surgical procedures across five categories, including 232 colonoscopies and 414 endoscopies in the Minor Operating Theatre, where such procedures are typically conducted.
The high demand for these services, the hospital noted, limits the feasibility of offering routine sedation to all patients.
GPHC expressed appreciation for public feedback, viewing it as essential to the ongoing review and improvement of its services.
The hospital reaffirmed its commitment to delivering safe, effective, and compassionate care, and pledged to continue evolving its practices in line with both global standards and local realities.
Chahal four-for stuns KKR as PBKS defend 111
(ESPNCRICINFO) Last year Punjab Kings (PBKS) pulled off the highest successful chase in the IPL when they came across Kolkata Knight Riders
(KKR). This year, they have nailed the lowest successful defence, bowling KKR out for 95 after posting just 111. And this after they failed to defend 245 in their previous match against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
At 62 for 2, KKR were 98% favourites to win, but Yuzvendra Chahal triggered a sensational collapse in conditions that were almost as helpful for the seamers as in Test cricket. Arshdeep Singh and Marco Jansen then applied the finishing touches with incisive short bowling, something KKR had used to end up with a paltry target to chase.
The ball seamed 0.5 degrees on average, and both the batting sides approached the game with high intent. Anything full flew because of the pace in the pitch, but once wickets fell, they did so in clutches. Accordingly, things happened quickly, the game swung wildly. PBKS went from 39 for 0 in 19 balls to 15 for 4 in the next 17. They lost their last wickets for 37. KKR were 7 for 2 in 1.2 overs, but scored 55 in the next 38 balls. Chahal then inspired a collapse of six wickets in 5.1 overs. The final twist was Andre Russell taking 16 off one Chahal over to rearrange his figures to 4-0-28-4, but the big leftarm quicks turned to seal the win that took PBKS into the top four.
PRABHSIMRAN AND ARYA HIT THE GROUND RUNNING
KKR beefed up their fast bowling with Anrich Nortje ostensibly because they wanted to test the young
Indian batters in PBKS, who have been doing the heavy-lifting for them. However, the openers targeted Vaibhav Arora’s second over to threaten a repeat of their high-scoring exploits. Harshit Rana, though, turned things around with shorter lengths. The wickets themselves might look innocuous but the short balls did create doubts as they stopped a little and also seamed appreciably. Priyansh Arya found deep square leg, Shreyas Iyer cut a short and wide ball straight to deep point , and Prabhsimran Singh was cramped on the cut. All three catches ended up with Ramandeep Singh.
KKR SPINNERS MOP UP
Probably expecting high pace, PBKS reinforced their overseas batting by bringing in Josh Inglis for Marcus Stoinis. However, both their overseas batters failed to read Varun Chakravarthy from the hand . Inglis was bowled off a wrong’un trying to slog-sweep, Glenn Maxwell looking for a single.
PBKS even went for an SOS substitution, which would leave Maxwell as the fifth bowler. Sunil Narine, though, took out the Impact Player Suryansh Shedge and Jansen in the same over. A run-out between Arshdeep and IPL debutant Xavier Bartlett ended what looked like a sorry innings. The KKR seamers took 4 for 23 in 29 balls pitched shorter than 8m in length while 24 balls fuller than that went for 49 runs.
GCB expresses condolence on the passing of former WI cricketer Milton Pydanna
THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has expressed its condolences to the family and friends of the late Milton Robert Pydanna, former West Indies and Guyana cricketer. He died yesterday.
Pydanna, born in New Amsterdam in January 1950, was an excellent wicketkeeper batsman whose first-class cricket career spanned the years 1970 to 1988 during which time he played 85 matches. He also played 27 List ‘A’ matches including three (3) ODI’s for West Indies. Of his 3 ODI’s, two were played against Pakistan in 1980 and one against India in 1983. After migrating to the USA, Pydanna was made one of the two assistant cricket coaches of their national team in 2014.
Pydanna found it difficult to break into the great West Indies Test team of the 1970’s and 1980’s because of the presence of outstanding first-choice wicketkeepers Deryck Murray, Michael Finlay and Jeffrey Dujon. In his lengthy cricket career, he was a mainstay in the Police first-division team, the Berbice inter-county team and the Guyana national team.
In March 2024, Milton Pydanna was one of the celebrated guests at the reunion of the 1983 Guyana team that, for the first time, won both the regional four-day tournament (Shell Shield Trophy) and the one-day tournament (Harrison Line Cup) under the captaincy of our illustrious Clive Lloyd.
The GCB extends sympathy to the family, relatives and friends of Milton Robert Pydanna.
Mice/Jermaine Family Futsal Semifinals…
Botafago Clash with Shattas, Milerock collide with Capital FC
AFTER some impressive performances in the quarterfinal, futsal fans are assured of gripping semifinal tomorrow (Thursday) in the Mice and Jermaine futsal championship at the Retrieve Hard Court.
Siilver Shattas will collide with Botafago and Capital FC face the might of Milerock in two intense clashes to determine the next round.
In the quarterfinal encounters, Silver Shattas downed Eagles United, 5-3, after the scores were knotted 2-2 at halftime.
Jermaine Samuels lashed in four goals for the Shattas with the other coming from Jehu Regis; as Akeem Nieunkirk and Keoni Fields got doubles in a losing cause for Eagles United.
The Shattas semi-final opponents Botafago, smashed their way past Net Rockers, 6-4, after holding sway 3-2 at the break.
Shamar Caesar was in great form as he hit four goals with Malachi Todd and Jashawn Moore getting the others for Botafago.
Kelroy Anthony and
Joel Isaacs netted doubles for the Rockers.
Milerock booked their place in the last four with a 8-4 thrashing of Coomacka United, with Colwyn Drakes and Amaniki Buntin getting hat-tricks for the victors while Allan Halley and Mickel Tappin were their other scorers.
Ateba Edmondson and Jamal Whyte each got braces in a losing cause for Coomacka United.
Milerock come up against Capital FC who ousted Winners Connection 3-2.
Devonte Tappin had the double and Omarion Ramsammy the other goal for Capital FC.
Ronic Veloza and Anthony Layne netted the two goals for Winners Connection.
The winners of this tournament collects $700,000 with second place collecting $400,000, third placed team $200,000 and fourth place finisher $100,000.
The final and third place matches are set for Sunday at the Retrieve Hard Court.
(Joe Chapman)
South California listed as cricket returns to the Olympics
CMC – CRICKET will make its long-awaited return to the Olympic Games after a 128-year absence, with the venue now officially announced here on Tuesday.
The Fairgrounds in Pomona, Southern California, has been confirmed as the host for cricket’s comeback at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. The excitement around cricket’s Olym -
pic revival has grown since its inclusion was confirmed, and the IOC Executive Board finalised key details on 9 April, including player quotas and the number of teams.
Both the men’s and women’s T20 competitions will feature six teams each, with a 90-player quota per gender, allowing squads of up to 15 players per nation. The full schedule will be announced closer
to the Games.
ICC Chair Jay Shah praised the milestone for the global sport, which many had believed deserved its place on the Olympic landscape.
“We welcome the announcement of the venue for cricket at LA28, as it marks a major step in our preparations for the sport’s Olympic return. Cricket’s inclusion is a fantastic opportunity to reach new audiences
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through the fast-paced T20 format.”
Cricket’s Olympic return was confirmed in October 2023, alongside other new sports such as baseball/softball, flag football, lacrosse (sixes), and squash.
The T20 format has previously appeared in multi-sport events, including the Asian Games (2010, 2014, 2023) and the 2022 Commonwealth Games (women’s T20).
THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has welcomed the launch of the “YES” Initiative, a collaboration between the Rights of the Child Commission (RCC) and the Georgetown Football Association (GFA) aimed at promoting youth empowerment and child rights through football.
The “ Youth Empowerment through Sport” initiative, the first of its kind in Guyana , will use football to raise awareness on child rights, sensitise communities, and advocate for the endorsement of the Children’s Bill of Rights in Sports
GFF President Wayne Forde attended the launch and praised the partnership, highlighting the GFF’s own Child Safeguarding Policy launched in 2024
“The GFF remains deeply committed to ensuring that football is a safe space for
A COMPOSED captain’s innings from Richard Ramdeholl, coupled with a valuable all-round contribution from vice-captain Brandon Henry and a disciplined bowling effort, steered the Guyana Under-15s to a winning start in the Cricket West Indies Rising Stars Under-15 tournament.
They defeated Trinidad and Tobago by six wickets in their opening encounter at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.
After being asked to bat first, Trinidad and Tobago were restricted to 168 all out in 48.5 overs. Jordan Julien provided the backbone of their innings with a well-constructed 53, while Davis Guerra chipped in with a solid 32.
The pair had built a promising platform, taking T&T to 96 for 1 in the 26th over. However, Guyana’s bowlers orchestrated a crucial middle-order collapse, picking up wickets regularly to peg back the Trinidadians. The Guyanese attack shared the wickets, with Brandon Henry, Nathan -
iel Ramsammy, Reyaz Latif, Rafael McKenzie, and Patrice Fraser each bagging two wickets, effectively stifling the Trinidad and Tobago innings.
Chasing a target of 169 for victory, Guyana endured an early setback, losing Arif Bacchus leg- before in the 14th over.
However, skipper Richard Ramdeholl displayed maturity and resilience, anchoring the chase with a commanding knock of 64. He found excellent support from his vice-captain, Brandon Henry, who contributed a valuable 39.
The captain-vice-captain duo batted with composure and confidence, guiding Guyana steadily towards the target.
For Trinidad and Tobago, Ethan Ramcharan was the pick of the bowlers, taking 2 for 36, while Jayden Sadaphal chipped in with 1 for 33.
Guyana will look to build on this positive start when they face Jamaica in their next match on April 17 at the Antigua Recreation Ground.
every child ,” Forde said , pledging to work closely with the RCC and its partners to strengthen child protection efforts.
Forde also announced that the GFF and RCC would meet to explore a formal working relationship to support their shared goals
The RCC , established under Guyana ’ s Constitution, aims to safeguard children ’ s fundamental rights
The “ YES ” Initiative will advance this within the football community
The initiative will also see GFA coaches and referees trained as youth mentors, with support from bodies including the Ministry of Legal Affairs, UNICEF, and the University of Guyana
This joint effort aims to create safe sporting environments for children, free from violence, exploitation, and abuse.
GMMAKA holds successful Epic Clash Martial Arts Championships
The team following the completion of the fourth Annual Epic Clash Martial Arts Championships
GMMAKA holds successful Epic Clash Martial Arts Championships
THE Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Karate Association held its fourth Annual Epic Clash Martial Arts Championship last Sunday at the Guyana National Gymnasium. With more than 12 par-
ticipating teams, students left with great success and worthy accomplishments.
Zafar Ramnarine has secured first position in the Traditional Kata Advanced Grand Championship and Somaya Khan secured first position in the beginner to Intermediate Traditional Kata Grand Championship.
Master Lloyd applaud every participating student and congratulated each seeing their performance excelled at the event.
The Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Karate Association would like to extend special thanks to its sponsor Smalta
Company for their significant contribution.
The next event will be in New Jersey Atlantic City on the 24th and 25th of May 2025, followed by Trinidad Nationals in the month of July and Suriname Karate Championship in the month of August.
Guyana Football Federation President Wayne Forde (far right) participates in an activity with other officials
Milton Robert Pydanna
Richard Ramdeholl (centre) celebrates the fall of a wicket (PHOTO: News Room/Avenash Ramzan)
