Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_02_04_2022

saturday 2nd april, 2022

No.106681

US$10B Yellowtail off- 03 shore project approved PAGE

— hailed as largest single investment to date -- project conforms to international best standards, environmental safeguards, says EPA

At left: CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited President, Liu Xiaoxiang; ExxonMobil Guyana President, Alistair Routledge; Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat and Hess Corporation Vice-President of Exploration, Appraisal, and Development for Guyana and Suriname, Tim Chrisholm, display the signed agreement (DPI photo)

$4.5B in contracts signed to construct, upgrade hinterland roads 13 and bridges PAGE

‘I quit my job for my daughter with cerebral palsy’ 15 PAGE

79 benefit from $600,000 grant for dialysis treatment

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

79 benefit from $600,000 grant for dialysis treatment THE Health Ministry on Friday officially kick-started its dialysis initiative with the distribution of funds to patients who are on treatment.

At the first payout at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony said the government has set aside some

located $180 million for dialysis treatment and that is why each one of you would be getting a grant of $600,000, and this is not a one-off thing; this means that every year you will be getting $600,000 to assist you with paying for your dialysis,” Dr Anthony said.

During the handing-over

One of the beneficiaries of the government dialysis programme receives his cheque from Chief Medical Officer, Dr Narine Singh (Ministry of Health photo)

$180 million in this year’s budget to cater for assisting dialysis patients.

He stated that it is not a one-off initiative, and as such, recipients will benefit from a grant each year to assist in payments for their treatment.

“This year we have al-

ceremony, he stated that if one were to look back, 18 years ago dialysis treatment was not even available in Guyana; however, strides have been made over the years to get the country to where it is and have treatment available in some regions of the country.

The Health Minister added that it has been a journey in providing dialysis care in the country and while the infrastructure has been set up, work must be done to maintain certain standards.

As such, he indicated that consultants from the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) have been here in the country and they will be working with each of the dialysis providers in the country to ensure that standards are kept at each of the facilities.

Meanwhile, nephrologist at the Georgetown Public Hospital, Dr Haimchand Barran, stated that the grant comes at no better time as recently the GPHC has been seeing a lot more admissions, even as they try to raise awareness about kidney disease and dialysis treatment.

“We have been seeing a lot more admissions with kidney disease and more so, to start dialysis because there is more awareness and we have been trying to share this information and the numbers have been increasing quite a lot,” Dr Barran said.

He added that financial constraints is one of the most frequent reasons dialysis patients are admitted at the GPHC and further reiterated the importance of distribution of the grants for these beneficiaries.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

US$10B Yellowtail offshore project approved

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— hailed as largest single investment to date — project conforms to international best standards, environmental safeguards, says EPA

THE government and Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) on Friday signed the Petroleum Production Licence (PPL) for the Yellowtail offshore development in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana.

The Yellowtail project approval was a result of extensive reviews done by local and international experts, a statement from the Ministry of Natural Resources said.

Prior to the approval, the Government of Guyana had contracted Bayphase Oil and Gas Consultants and the Redford Group headed by Alison Redford and a team of technical experts to review the Yellowtail Development Plan, in keeping with internationally recognised standards within the oil-and-gas industry.

“Most importantly, the team of technical experts assessed the project to ensure that all relevant regulations are complied with and that they can be enforced.

This included environmental standards and reservoir management for the sustainable and responsible operation of the project, in conformity with the best international standards and environmental safeguards associated with a project of such magnitude,” the statement noted.

Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat stated that the government and its regulatory agencies are satisfied with all the reviews and long hours invested by both local and international experts to finally have a licensing agreement for the Yellowtail Project, which will benefit all Guyanese realising the ‘One Guyana’ vision.

The Natural Resources Ministry said this project will build on the recently sanctioned local content legislation for each stage of the project as it relates to workforce development, supplier development and overall strategic investment.

The Government of Guyana remains committed to managing and extracting Guyana’s oil-and-gas resources sustainably, in

At left: CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited President, Liu Xiaoxiang; Hess Corporation Vice-President of Exploration, Appraisal and Development for Guyana and Suriname, Tim Chrisholm; Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat and ExxonMobil Guyana President, Alistair Routledge signing the agreement on Friday (DPI photo)

keeping with internationally recognised acceptable environmental standards and transparency, the ministry added.

“The project in the Stabroek Block is expected to produce up to 250,000 barrels of oil per day after startup in late 2025, using the ‘One Guyana’ Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel. The US$10 billion development project will target an estimated resource base of about 900 million oil-equivalent barrels and this is now the largest single investment in the history of Guyana,” the statement from the Natural Resources Ministry disclosed.

COMMENDATION Meanwhile, President of the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC), Manniram Prashad has congratulated and commended, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and his government for the swift approval of ExxonMobil’s Yellowtail licence.

Vice-President Dr. Bharat Jagdeo, at one of his press conference earlier this year acknowledged that there were some setbacks regarding the approval which was originally scheduled to be in December of 2021.

However, the Vice-President did promise to have this approved by the end of March 2022. GOGEC is

pleased to see that this revised deadline was met, a release from the chamber said.

“The Yellowtail Project is the fourth petroleum development project to have been permitted in the Stabroek Block, which is scheduled to commence production by 2025, thereby ramping up our production level to some 800,000 barrels per day.

“GOGEC fully supports the government’s objective to accelerate the country’s oil-and-gas production as quickly as practicably possible, so as to cash in on the relatively high oil prices into the foreseeable future. In doing so, this would aid greatly in advancing Guyana’s rapid economic transformation and development for the benefit of the people and the country at large – that is to say, for both the current and future generations to enjoy these anticipated benefits,” the release noted.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in a release, also on Friday confirmed its approval of the Yellowtail Development Project.

“An environmental permit was granted for a period of five years to Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) to undertake the construction and operation of production facilities, within the Stabroek Block, offshore Guyana,” the EPA said.

This approval and grant-

ing of the permit follow the provisions of the Environmental Protection Act Cap 20:05, the agency added.

Following a series of public consultations and recommendations provided by international experts and the Environmental Assessment Board (EAB), the EAB reviewed and declared the revised Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) “acceptable and provided recommendations for EPA’s approval as part of the environmental permit.”

Yellowtail is the fourth petroleum development project to have been permitted in the Stabroek Block.

“The permit, as it is commonly known, comprehensively addressed all environmental and social safeguards that are reasonably necessary to protect human health and the environment, including implied conditions as provided for in section 13 of the EP Act,” the EPA said.

FLARING The EPA reported that like its predecessors, the permit strictly prohibits routine flaring and venting, and specifies that flaring is only permissible during commissioning, start-up and special circumstances.

“The permit also goes further to maintain payments in instances where flaring is conducted beyond permitted durations,” the body said.

OIL SPILL RESPONSE AND FINANCIAL ASSURANCE Additionally, the EPA said the permit requires EEPGL to procure a ‘capping stack’ to be maintained, tested, and stored in Guyana.

“A capping stack is a large well-closure device that connects to the top of the blowout preventer (BOP) and is capable of sealing off a well.

“It is a form of modern technology (available post the Gulf of Mexico, Macando incident) to cap a well in the event of a loss of well control, and failure of the blowout preventer (BOP),” the release continued.

Additionally, the environmental protection body said EEPGL must maintain access to at least one overseas subscription service, to allow mobilisation of a capping stack to the project location.

“This serves to fortify safety and emergency response efforts since wells would be swiftly capped in the event of a well blowout,” it said.

“The permit also ensures that EEPGL is held liable for all costs associated with clean up, restoration and compensation for any pollution damage which may occur as consequence of the project.

“EEPGL is also required to have financial assurance which includes a combination of insurance which must

‘cover well control, and/ or clean up and third-party liability on terms that are market standard for the type of coverage’, and a parent company/affiliate guarantee agreement which indemnifies and keeps indemnified the EPA and the Government of Guyana in the event EEPGL and its co-venturers fail to meet their environmental obligations under the permit.

“Further, the financial assurance provided must be guided by an estimate of the sum of the reasonably credible costs, expenses, and liabilities that may arise from any breaches of this permit.

“Liabilities are considered to include costs associated with responding to an incident, clean-up and remediation and monitoring,” the EPA statement expounded.

MONITORING As it relates to monitoring, the EPA said that to ensure EEPGL meets its obligations to prevent and mitigate environmental harm, the permit imposes comprehensive requirements for monitoring and management of any impacts affecting biological, physical, and socio-economic resources within the Area of Influence of the project, including targeted and updated environmental baseline studies.

“The permit also requires EEPGL to submit safety case information, including a risk assessment prior to drilling and development of wells,” the statement further added.

GRIEVANCE MECHANISM Lastly, the EPA said EEPGL is also enjoined to establish and maintain a grievance mechanism in keeping with the World Bank’s approach to grievance redress in projects, to ensure that complaints from individuals and communities who may be affected by the project are received and addressed.

“There is a requirement for reporting same and what actions were taken to address the grievances to the EPA,” the agency stated.

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Top officials deliver motivational talk to Cummings Lodge Secondary students

THE Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) on Friday hosted a training and motivational seminar for students of Cummings Lodge Secondary School at its Training Centre on Middle Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown.

According to a release, the students were addressed by the President of GOGEC Manniram Prashad, and Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn, who are both graduates of Cummings Lodge Secondary School.

The students, GOGEC noted, were also addressed

by Commissioner of Police (ag) Clifton Hicken; General Manager of SBM Offshore Guyana Martin Cheong; Denis Chabrol of news outlet Demerara waves; and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GTT Damian Blackburn, who all gave motivational ‘pep’ talks to the students.

The Managing Director of HHSL Safety System Guyana Herman Vieira outlined the various job opportunities that exist in the oil-and-gas sector, while Joel Bhagwandin, Financial Analyst, explained the oil and gas sector from an economic

Standing, from left, are: GOGEC President Manniram Prashad; Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn; CEO of GTT Damian Blackburn; Commissioner of Police (ag) Clifton Hicken; General Manager of SBM Offshore Guyana, Martin Cheong; and Denis Chabrol of news outlet, Demerara Waves

point of view.

Further, GOGEC said the students were presented with their certificate of attendance

by Victor Fernandes, President of the Linden Chamber of

Commerce.

GOGEC has thus far conducted training for students at Annandale Secondary, Apex Education, Christ Church, Bishops High

School, St. John’s College, St. Joseph’s High, St. Stanislaus, Brickdam Secondary, North G/town Secondary, St. George’s High School and Charlestown Secondary.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

Norton, Lawrence expected to fill vacant opposition seats in Parliament FORMER President David Granger has written to the Chairman of A Partnership of National Unity (APNU), Aubrey Norton and Leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC), Khemraj Ramjattan, requesting that they meaningfully consult on the nomination of candidates to fill the two vacancies on the opposition benches in the National Assembly.

According to a press statement, representative of the List for the APNU+AFC, David Granger, at 14:00hrs on Wednesday, 30th March, 2022, received two letters from Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir, informing him of the resignations of Lt Col (ret’d), Joseph Harmon with effect from 15th March, 2022 and Dr. Nicolette Henry, with effect from 31st March, 2022 from the National Assembly.

“The Representative of the List can take no further action until the APNU Chairman and AFC Leader conduct their consultations and submit their nominations. He now awaits the names of the two candidates who will fill the vacant seats

Chairman of APNU, Aubrey Norton

before informing the Chief Elections Officer,” the press statement noted.

Granger has also informed Vishnu Persaud, Chief Election Officer of the Elections Commission, of the present development.

“The Representative of the List has followed and acted in accordance with the Constitution of Guyana and the Representation of the People Act which [sic] with regard to the resignation and replacement of members to the National Assembly at all material times,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, the People’s

Former Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence

National Congress/Reform (PNC/R), which is the largest block of the APNU+AFC Coalition, has insisted that its Leader Aubrey Norton should be appointed the new Opposition Leader. It is likely that Norton would be appointed to one of the two opposition vacancies in the National Assembly and then be voted in as Opposition Leader by members of the Coalition. Former Minister of Public Health under the APNU+AFC Government, Volda Lawrence, has been nominated by the APNU to fill the other vacant seat.

Alleged armed robber granted $40,000 bail

MIGUEL Blackman, a single-parent of three, on Friday appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court charged for allegedly robbing a man with a pair of scissors, and was released on $40,000 bail by Magistrate Leron Daly.

Blackman denied that on March 29, 2022, he robbed Trevor Junior Graham of $4,000 at Cornhill Street, Georgetown.

On the day in question, Graham was reportedly walking in the Timehri Bus Park when Blackman came up to him from behind and pushed him into a bus. He then allegedly pulled out a red-handled scissors from his waist and pointed it at Graham while demanding his valuables.

Blackman reportedly pushed his hand into Graham’s front left side pocket and took out $4,000 before making good his escape on foot.

Blackman was later arrested after Graham pointed him out to the police.

The case has been adjourned until May 13, 2022.

March 23, 2022

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

GBTI records $1.7B profit DESPITE the effects of ‘COVID’ in 2021, the Guyana Bank for Trade & Industry Limited (GBTI) continued as a leader in the financial industry, recording a $1.7B profit after tax.

According to GBTI Public Relations and Marketing Manager Pamela Binda, much of the bank’s success is as a result of support given to its customers, and value being placed on its employees.

“There was a significant increase in the asset

quality of the bank, much of which is attributed to the dedication and diligence of our team members,” Chief Executive Officer (CEO) James Foster said.

The bank noted that its portfolio saw improvements in its assets, which grew by 12 per cent. A profit growth of 28 per cent after tax was recorded, while an increased deposit growth of 12 per cent was realised.

“The bank’s loan portfolio grew by 20 per cent, while noting an improve-

GBTI CEO James Foster

ment of the Net NPL to below 10 per cent,” the bank stated.

Foster also noted the success of the GBTI Mutual Funds, which, in less than three years of existence, recorded a profit growth of $207M. GBTI Mutual Funds offers investors a suite of alternative investment opportunities.

“Working as a team is key to GBTI’s successes. We seek to grow our customers’ businesses, improve the lives of our team members, and make meaningful contributions to our communities,” the CEO said.

Appeal Court bids farewell to police prosecutor POLICE Sergeant, Clint James, who has reached the age of retirement after serving almost his entire 35 years in the Police Force as a prosecutor, was given a farewell party on Thursday in the Court of Appeal compound, Kingston, Georgetown.

“Mr. James, who was a prosecutor, has worked with the judicial system almost his entire career, and as a result, a simple but significant farewell party

was held in the Appeal’s Court compound,” the Police Headquarters noted.

T h e c e re m o n y w a s graced with the presence of the Chancellor (ag), Yonette Cummings- Edwards; Chief Justice, Roxane George; Justice Dawn Gregory; Registrar of the High Court of the Supreme Court of Judicature, Sueanna Lovell; Superintendent Karl Wilson and colleagues of the retired sergeant.

From left: Appeal Court Judge, Dawn Gregory; acting Chancellor, Yonette Cummings-Edwards; former Police Sergeant, Clint James and acting Chief Justice, Roxane George

Driver employed with BK Quarries strangled to death Pitamber Sharma, 69, of Independence Street, La Grange, West Bank Demerara was strangled to death sometime between 18:00 hours on Wednesday and 07:30 hours on Thursday in the Mazaruni River, according to a post mortem

done on Friday According to police, Sharma, who is employed as a driver, arrived at BK Quarries in the Mazaruni

River and he was assigned a living quarter in the compound and was last seen alive at about 18:00 hours.

The next morning,

Sharma’s body was found floating in the Mazaruni River by a security guard.

Police said he was found within the vicinity of the security base.

The body was identified by his sister and handed over to relatives for burial.

— continues to partner with both local and foreign investors The bank, being cognisant of the effects of ‘COVID’, stated that it supported communities and clients with reduced or eliminated fees, granted loan moratoriums, and reduced interest rates.

“Team members incurred no loss of income, in addition, accessed vaccination drives which saw in excess of 95 per cent of the team being vaccinated. Importantly, our team members continued to support our communities and our clients, despite the chal-

lenges of the pandemic.

Also, during this period, the bank invested heavily in technology to ensure we meet the burgeoning expectations of our clients,” GBTI noted.

The bank said it is a key partner to many business development initiatives in Guyana.

“We understand and embrace the changing landscape of our country, and believe these changes are necessary for Guyana to fully exploit its potential,” GBTI stated.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

Culture of Accountability

THE PPP/C administration has embarked on a governance approach in which the views and inputs of stakeholders are key elements. This is manifested in the several outreach visits to several regions of Guyana led by President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali; Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo and other senior government functionaries.

This is part of a bottom-up approach to development where the views and concerns of ordinary people are solicited to inform government programmes and policies.

President Ali has always insisted on a governance modality that is driven by grassroot involvement. He had repeatedly said that the approach of his administration to decision-making is one of stakeholder engagement, which could pave the way for the realisation

of the One Guyana vision.

People are central to development and it is only natural that they contribute to that process of nation-building.

Consistent with that vision, the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs has embarked on a ‘virtual’ conversation involving stakeholders from all sectors of Guyana such as the religious community, civil society and other groups and individuals in society.

The conversations are intended to create spaces to share opinions and raise concerns and have these addressed through the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs.

The forum is also intended to share information about government initiatives in order to keep constituencies informed and also to encourage broad-based participation in discussions on matters of national importance.

Information sharing, it

must be said, is an important management concept. From a governance perspective, it can be a dynamic and interactive process, one in which citizens raise issues of concern to them and propose possible solutions.

Government on the other hand can update citizens on policies and programmes put in place to address issues of concerns.

This is democracy in action for which the PPP/C administration must be commended. It was the PPP/C administration that initiated the practice of Cabinet outreaches where the President, Cabinet ministers and senior government officials are afforded the opportunity to interface directly with members of the respective communities; to listen to issues of concern and come up with possible solutions.

This approach to governance stands in sharp contrast to the top-heavy and

bureaucratic style of governance under the previous APNU+AFC administration which in the main was characterised by aloftness and inaccessibility between the governed and those in leadership positions.

According to the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Ms. Gail Teixeira, her ministry has re-commenced the convening of the National Stakeholder Forum which started under the PPP/C administration but was discontinued by the previous APNU+AFC administration.

The stakeholder forum has provided a mechanism to engage in a conversation with members of civil society and is part of the PPP/C Government’s efforts to reach out to diverse segments of the population, to listen to their concerns and to update them on developments that are taking place

in the country.

Minister Teixeira explained that to ensure that the meetings were not ‘talk shops’, there were follow up session from previous meetings where responses were given to issues raised in previous meetings and actions taken to have those issues addressed. According to the minister, engagements with a view of securing resolutions for stakeholders’ concerns have been consistent with what the PPP/C practiced during its previous terms in office.

Among the several areas of discussion was the draft 2030 Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) in which participants were encouraged to submit feedbacks to the relevant authorities. The idea is to work together in the interest of society as a whole.

These are all the key elements of a government that is answerable to the

people. There was a time in our history when accountability to the people was never regarded as a governance principle. That was because the then PNC Government was not democratically elected to office and therefore never felt it necessary to answer to the people. In fact, there is a close correlation between undemocratic rule and high levels of corruption as experience in Guyana and elsewhere have demonstrated.

Accountability and good governance is one of the hallmarks of the PPP/C administration.

This approach to governance has been repeatedly made by President Ali. Indeed, the culture of governance in Guyana has now changed to one of greater transparency and accountability to the people of Guyana for which the PPP/C administration must be commended.

CPL/Cricket Carnival: Guyana the place to be!

THE launch of the 11th Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) was indeed an everlasting euphoria that the impressive crowd at the Guyana National Stadium will never forget.

His Excellency, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali was at his best, as his passionate speech certainly set the pace for all the fun and excitement that is scheduled to be here in Guyana for two glorious weeks in September. Significantly, the President’s introduction of a new product, his call for further unity in Guyana and the wider Caribbean must be strengthened and become a reality.

The CPL is a signature sporting event on the sport calendar in the Caribbean and beyond. This, the 11th version, is expected to be

much more attractive, with the quality of preparation and the inclusion of greater sponsorship and more meaningful participation in Guyana and the Caribbean.

This CPL cricket will be more competitive. The competing teams are much stronger, and while batting and bowling normally win matches, this year, the fielding is expected to be magnificent. Guyanese did not enjoy the luxury of seeing live cricket at the National Stadium at Providence last year. However, this year we will be fortunate to see the hosting of seven group games, three knockout matches, along with the GRAND FINALE. The National Stadium at Providence is an attraction, and cricket is an electrifying and a must for the mammoth crowd.

Neil Kumar

This year, Cricket Carnival will be a fusion with sports and culture. Guyana certainly has a special tourism product to introduce to the world; Our ‘eco’ tourism, the resorts and the magnificent and mighty Kaieteur Falls will certainly be amongst the attraction. September is Heritage Month, the month when our indigenous brothers and sisters (our First Peoples) are given the opportunity to celebrate and showcase their specialty: Great food and culture.

Already, the many phone calls that are pouring in from overseas, the booking from people around the world to visit Guyana is amazing. While it is true that we will not have enough hotel rooms, our nation is the most hospitable in the world, and our people will accommo-

date their families, friends and visitors.

The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, and the Ministry of Tourism, along with the Ministry of Home Affairs are already in action, as they are in preparation for this ‘Mega’ event. While cricket is the main attraction, it cannot be denied that the fusion of Sports and the cultural activities will be superb.

Look out for the Guyana Night; look out for the Caribbean artistes, the music will be sensational.

As the PPP/C Government continues to develop and transform this country, our people will set the pace for development in this part of the world. It will be “Cricket, Glorious Cricket” right here in Guyana.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

Ma Durga’s blessings of peace, bliss and happiness on Navratri

Dear Editor,

ONCE again, Hindus, devotees, lovers, friends and followers of Hinduism throughout the world, including Guyana, are proud and lucky to have the golden opportunity of celebrating Vasant, or Chaitra Navratri.

Navratri, the auspicious festival of commemorating nine nights/days of the nine forms of Divinity of the Universal Mother, Durga Mata, is observed twice per year, in Spring (March/April as per the Gregorian calendar), and in Fall, October/November (Sharad Navratri).

With the repercussions of the deadly disease of COVID-19, this pandemic has certainly taken a heavy toll, and many people have suffered losses of their dear ones. As we observe Vasant, or Chaitra Navratri, our thoughts and prayers are with the departed souls, as we remember them and miss their loving presence.

This year, Navratri commences on April 1, and concludes, as usual, with the grand culmination of Ram Navami on April 10. While most of the customs and rituals are fundamentally the same for both seasons, traditions and practices may vary as per the different ways and means practised in the different parts of India, and inherited by the descendants who migrated and settled in various parts of the world.

GUDI PADWA In Maharashtra, for instance, the first day is called Gudi Padwa, and in Kashmir, it is known as Navreh. The first day of Chaitra Navratri falls during the full moon phase, which is known as Shukla Paksha phase, marking the first day of the Hindu calendar. Ghatasthapana is one of the significant pujas during Navratri, and it marks the beginning of the nine days of festivity. This is the invocation of Goddess Shakti, and must be performed as per the stipulated rules and guidelines of the scriptures.

Nav (nine) Ratri (night), is a dedicated period to specifically revere the Divinity of Mata Durga, who is the Universal Mother.

In Shaktism, the word Ratri (night) is symbolically derived from the root, Ra (“to give”), and is taken to literally mean “the giver” of bliss, peace and happiness.

This is a time when Hindus

go the extra mile to prepare themselves mentally, spiritually and physically to undergo this period of penance to include cleansing, fasting and praying in order to seek the blessings of Mata Uma. Attention is also paid to the surroundings for cleanliness and the restriction of anything sacrilegious or the consumption of anything considered unholy.

Under normal circumstances, devotees would flock all the mandirs throughout the country, but the pandemic has placed restrictions, and although the protocols require limiting the seating capacity and free flow of movement and participation has been lifted, there is still a degree of reservation to attend.

In our prayers, we ask and beg Bhawani Ma to bless all those who are no longer with us, and give them peace and bliss as we seek solace and refuge in chanting Her prayers, serenading her numerous names, and glorifying her heroic stories.

As we request Amba Maa to satisfy our quest for Her to shelter us under her umbrella of protection, and shield us from any form of endangerment, we specifically bequest Her to sanitise the universe in order for this virus to be eradicated completely from the environment, and, the earth will be free of this deadly disease, so that people can be restored to an orderly lifestyle once more, as fast as possible.

Durga Maa enjoys being addressed by 108 names, each adorned with its separate significance. As the Trinity of Parvati, Lakshmi and Sarasvati, the divine mother blossomed from the attributes of Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, and gifted with the presents of all the deities and devas. Identified as AdiShakti (Primal Power), the Goddess of War, her manifestation centres around combating evils and demonic forces that threaten peace, progress and prosperity.

GOOD OVER EVIL The triumph of good over evil to restore faith in confidence and restore Dharma over Adharma provides the pinnacle for the essence of Navratri. And so, the first three nights are dedicated to the feet of Durga Ma, the protector of Mankind who was called upon to reveal Her prowess in her nine Avatars to battle the forces of

physical and psychological negativity. The second three nights are exalted to the devotion of Lakshmi Mata, the bestower of health, wealth and prosperity, whom we beseech for material growth for sustenance and survival to provide the convenience of comfort.

The last three nights are lauded to extoll the praises of Sarasvati Ma, the provider of knowledge who removes nescience and paves the path of acquiring intelligence so that we function responsibly in society and maintain moral up-righteousness.

In as much as the joy and fervour remains enthusiastically inclined for devotees to celebrate in all its pump and glory, amid this pandemic, socialising freely becomes challenging and many may be confined to domicile at home rather than visiting the holy places or mandirs. The season may again be observed in a lowkey manner. Nevertheless, this is the ideal occasion to learn about all The Universal Mother’s features, characteristics, significance, purpose and scriptural history while staying indoor.

One can read, look at virtual programmes, recite the scriptures, observe fast, look at religious films, listen to bhajans, pray and also give to charity. This doom and gloom will eventually dissipate as more and more are being vaccinated and

the protocols are observed.

Prayers and praises of the Mother, practice and protection as mentioned, perseverance and performance as mitigated, all these el-

ements when factored together will restore a belief that better days are ahead with the intervention of the Divine Mother. May Ma Durga blessings be show-

ered on all to enjoy peace, bliss and happiness. Shubh Vasant Navratri.

Respectfully, Jai Lall

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

Disabilities should not separate people — Minister Manickchand says at autism awareness event

THE Ministry of Education and NCERD’s Special Education Needs Unit, in collaboration with the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), held an autism walk and public awareness session on Friday in observance of World Autism Awareness Day. Minister of Education Priya Manickchand, in her remarks said that she desires to live in a world where awareness about the equality of autistic persons is no longer needed.

“We have to work tirelessly, consistently and sensibly to remove the need for us to have autism awareness,” she said.

World Autism Awareness Day is celebrated annually on April 2.

With this year’s theme being, ‘Inclusion in the Workplace: Challenges and Opportunities in a Post-Pandemic World’, the

minister emphasised that the efforts of the State have to be placed on putting systems in place in institutions to ensure inclusivity is not a cliché or a nice headline.

“Every time we separate ourselves or deny ourselves the talent of any single individual because of their gender, ethnicity, geographical origin, education level or disability, we deny ourselves the pace at which we should and could grow,” Minister Manickchand said.

Meanwhile, National Special Education Needs (SEN) Unit Officer Savvie Hopkinson shared that World Autism Awareness Day celebrates the resilience of those affected by the disorder, and supports causes as well as promotes awareness of the developmental condition.

“This autism month must, therefore, serve to refocus educators, re-energise parents, and mobilise

Seated from left, front row, are: GPL Chief Executive Officer Bharat Dindyal; Minister of Education Priya Manickchand; Chief Education Officer Dr. Marcel Hutson; and NCERD Director Quenita Walrond-Lewis

communities. It must arrest the attention of citizens, and direct them to the beneficial changes taking place in our schools,” Hopkinson shared.

Also speaking was Director of NCERD Quenita Walrond-Lewis, who thanked the attendees in advance for the continuation of their support and efforts in future activities planned for the month of April. “ N C E R D ’s S p e c i a l Education Needs Unit is thrilled, once again, to lead the charge in heightening awareness of autism, and the increased magnitude of this particular kickoff celebration is a signal that we, as an agency and as a ministry, are gaining ground in

our efforts to champion, not just awareness but longer strives to inclusivity,” she said.

She noted that it is not only inclusivity in the educational sphere like the classrooms but also in the workplace, so that all citizens can activate their right to access employment freely and fairly.

Additionally, in an autism dialogue, a team of SEN officers shared with the public what autism is.

“Autism is a developmental disability, and it

manifests itself before an individual is three years old,” one of the team members said.

They noted that while many scientists have done the research, there is no definite cause. To identify autism, it may be found that a person makes limited eye contact or may have difficulties with verbal communication, as well as in children, they may sometimes not respond when being spoken to. There may also be an impairment in their social skills, and even restrictive repetitive movements or behaviour.

The team informed that different strategies can be used to manage autism.

They explained that an intensive substantive special education needs programme is put in place to provide structured teaching, language therapy, social skills therapy and more to help ensure the condition is properly managed.

For the month of April 2022, there is a calendar of activities planned.

An Autism Artism Sip and Paint in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) and several information sessions and outreaches around the country, are among the events to be held.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

Bentick graduates with distinction, praises supportive UG environment

THE University of Guyana (UG) strives to ensure that the critical support network needed for students’ and citizens’ success is provided to everyone who enters it to further support their goals, dreams and aspiration.

The intention is also that every student would be

studies, and caring for her differently-abled child. She explained that while attending classes, she would have to schedule her time around dropping off and picking up her child from the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre.

This, she noted, posed quite a difficulty for her to be on time for her classes. Howev-

Rennita Bentick

equipped with the skills and knowledge that would enable them to cope well in an environment that is rapidly changing.

Rennita Bentick, 46, is among the 2,600 graduates of the Class of 2020/2021 who proudly walked the virtual graduation stage when the university hosted its series of graduation ceremonies in March 2022. The La Grange, West Bank Demerara resident graduated with a BSc. Management, pass with distinction, from the School of Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation (SEBI), UG. Overwhelmed with excitement and gratitude, she believes that in spite of the many challenges she faced, the support she received during her time at UG contributed significantly to her success. “The last four years have been very transformative. The knowledge I have gained, and the content that I was exposed to have positioned me for success, and expanded my vision and thinking,” the proud graduate said.

Bentick had her fair share of personal struggles, but was determined that no obstacle would come in the way of her successfully completing her studies at UG, which she is fully aware will allow her to secure a better future.

She detailed the challenges she faced coping with her

er, she highlighted that her classmates and lecturers were very supportive, and without them it would have been very difficult to finish her studies.

NEVER AFRAID “There is a support network at the University of Guyana that I found particularly in my peers who would ensure that I had a seat and the notes I missed when I was running late; my academic advisers were a WhatsApp message away, and were always willing to help and guide me when I needed same. My Dean, who was very proactive and interested in the wellbeing of his students, and lecturers whom I could have reached out to for assistance at any time. I also made use of the library resources, even after midnight at times, and was never afraid to ask questions or for help when I needed it. In essence, I took charge of my educational success,” Bentick explained.

The career banker who aspires to one day become an educator, added: “SEBI provided a platform for me to develop and grow, and I no longer feel stuck; I am filled with confidence, and exude many competencies in many areas of my life. Importantly, I feel well positioned to take advantage of opportunities that present themselves. I am currently furthering my stud-

ies, and have experienced career advancement.”

Bentick expressed immense gratitude to those who supported her academic journey and contributed to her success. “A journey could never be taken in isolation, and so I recognise first of all the Almighty God for health, strength, and wis-

dom, and some people that made it possible… Gayann Russel-Persaud for insisting that I apply to the University of Guyana; my mother, Wilhelmina Dos Ramos, who faithfully took care of things for me at home; my son, Ray, who shared the pickup schedule, and who also graduated with me this year;

and my ‘A-Team’: Sabita Rampertab, Imran Boodram, and Andrew Horatio. You all were a major part of my support base. Thank you!”

Bentick offered words of encouragement to current students. “As I reflect on the past four years, an African proverb comes to mind, it goes like this:

‘Where you sit when you are old depends on how you stand in your youth.’

Today is the day to stand; today is the day to make the best of every opportunity that comes your way.

Success does not happen by accident; you have to be intentional about it.” (University of Guyana)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

Quintet charged over Prashad Nagar drug bust granted $500, 000 bail

FIVE persons who were recently arrested in Prashad Nagar following the discovery of cocaine and ecstasy pills, on Friday, made their first court appearance and were each released on $500,000 bail.

James Hubert, Gregory Faria, Jamal Narine, Jennifer Butcher and Lena Narine were brought before Magistrate Sherdel Marcus-Isaacs at

the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court where they all pleaded not guilty to possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

It is alleged that on March 29, 2022, at 295 Prashad Nagar, they had in their possession 11.4 kilograms (approximately 25 pounds) of cocaine.

It is also alleged that on the same day, Lena had in her possession 266 grams of ecstasy for the pur-

pose of trafficking.

She pleaded not guilty to the charge.

They were represented by Nigel Williams, Dexter Smartt, Everton Singh-Lammy and Dexter Todd.

Reports are that on the day in question, at about 19:45 hours, ranks of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), observed a motor car with a Sheriff Taxi logo parked on the opposite side of the house.

The ranks allegedly saw Lena putting a pink bag into the motor car.

Subsequently, another motor car pulled up opposite the Lot 295 Prashad Nagar house.

Hubert allegedly came out of the said motor car with a black plastic bag in his hand and went into the house where Lena was standing at the front door. CANU ranks entered the yard and went into the house.

A black plastic bag on a plastic chair was observed and a search was conducted where

five brown parcels with green markings were found. A field test revealed traces of cocaine.

A further search was conducted and under three chair cushions in the said house, a black plastic bag was allegedly found with what was later confirmed to be cocaine.

Subsequently, a search of the motor car bearing the Sheriff Taxi logo unearthed the ecstasy pills.

Hubert along with the others were arrested and taken to CANU headquarters.

According to prosecutor Richard Harris, Herbert gave a caution statement admitting his involvement to the CANU ranks.

After listening to the submissions, the magistrate granted them $500, 000 bail each. Lena was granted an additional $500,000 bail for the alleged possession of the ecstasy pills.

As a condition of bail, the defendants were ordered to surrender their passports.

They will return to court on May 4, 2022.

Several women get funds to start-up businesses

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

THE Human Services and Social Security Ministry in collaboration with the World Food Bank (WFB) on Wednesday distributed some $14.9 million through the ‘Empowerment Fund’ to residents of Regions Two and Seven.

The initiative was brought to fruition late last year, to provide women graduating from the ministry’s Women Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) programme with the finances to launch their own businesses.

Human Services Minister, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, said the initiative is being rolled out to help women to become financially sound.

“A big part of why this is happening this way, is to help women to be financially empowered and to be independent.”

She added that they have to start thinking what to do to ensure that they are able to sustain themselves.

Some 299 persons benefitted from the ministry’s $50,000 grant. They said the initiative is great, as the money will be the stepping stone for their businesses, a report from the Department of Public Information (DPI) said.

Seventeen-year-old Savita Lall, who participated in the administrative assistant course, said the money will assist her to purchase uni-

Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr. Vindhya Persaud handing over a grant to a recipient (DPI photo)

form.

“I plan to gain employment and get ready to go into the world of work, buy clothes for work and so on. I am very proud of the government and the things they’re doing for the community and to help us.”

Toshanna Gafoor, who was laid off from work due to COVID-19 said, “I am excited right now; I feel very lucky to be a part of this course, and I want to continue to go to more courses.

I have big dreams and I am very thankful for this; this has been very helpful for me.

I plan to do my own business actually.”

For Padmordeen Ram-

nauth, a single mother, “It is a very good initiative especially for the single moms and for the persons you know that don’t have a job so at least they can learn something and one day open their own business. I am doing cakes and cupcakes for parties and stuff so I will invest it in that.”

Raveena Roopnarine expressed similar sentiments.

“It is a good thing they doing because most women are single moms and everybody can do something instead of being home doing nothing and this is a great opportunity for them to start out.”

(DPI)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

$37.8M Kwakwani Magistrate’s Court commissioned -access to justice now easier for Berbice River residents

By Clestine Juan

ATTORNEY-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC, together with senior members of the judiciary, on Friday, commissioned the $37.8 million Kwakwani Magistrate’s Court, which is expected to provide easier access to justice for Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice residents.

District resident, Magistrate Wanda Fortune, has been assigned to the court to hear both civil and criminal matters.

Magistrate Fortune, in her address at the simple ceremony, expressed her gratitude for the new courthouse which will serve the mining and logging communities on the Berbice River in the Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice region.

She explained that since 2001 the court sessions were held at an old state guest house at Kwakwani.

“The building was devoid of windows and individuals required a particular set of skills to navigate the dilapidated stairs and floor. The court sittings were subjected to the weather since rain would blow into the courtroom whenever it rained, necessitating a pause in [the] proceeding,” she said.

The magistrate added that despite the challenges, litigants, the police and civilians attended court, which is evidence of their dedication to the administration of justice in the district.

“The dedication of the spacious building equipped with facilities for remote hearing and windows is momentous.

Attorney-General Anil Nandlall and Magistrate Wanda Fortune unveiling a plaque during the commissioning of the Kwakwani Magistrate’s Court (Department of Public Information photo) The newly-commissioned Kwakwani Magistrate’s Court (Department of Public Information photo)

It heralds a new era where the weather will no longer disrupt court proceedings. Court users no longer have to brave the elements whether rain or sunshine while they wait in the yard or on the road for their matter to be called. The building means that I can dispense justice and the people of this district can receive the same in a comfortable and relaxing environment,” she added.

Meanwhile, Nandlall, in his remarks, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to partnering with the judiciary to ensure access to justice throughout Guyana.

According to Nandlall, that access to justice is the foundation of a democratic nation and the hallmark of modern civilisation. He reminded those gathered of the Constitution which speaks of the state not denying anyone equality and equal protection and benefit of the law.

“The judiciary is one of the fundamental pillars upon which a modern democratic society stands. Our government rec-

ognises the significant role the judiciary must play, and must continue to play as we strive to develop this country,” he said.

He explained that currently, several courts are either under construction or being renovated, which will aid in the delivery of justice across the country.

“When in government we speak about the economic, commercial and infrastructural transformation that is taking place in our country across every landscape, that same thing is happening in the judiciary as well,” the AG said.

He added: “We in the executive consider that our society cannot advance, people cannot advance; we cannot achieve the goal of a modern civilised and democratic society if that important institution called the judiciary is left behind.”

The AG highlighted that just like the right to life and healthcare, access to justice must be an inalienable right of the citizens.

“I want to reassure you that the Government of Guyana will continue to collaborate, cooper-

ate and work in harmony with the judiciary to improve the access of justice right across the length and breadth of Guyana,” he said.

Also speaking during the ceremony was Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Yonette Cummings-Edwards.

She explained that the new court building is equipped with recording technology for the taking of evidence, a lock-up, living quarters for a magistrate, magistrate’s chambers, lawyers’ rooms, and other amenities.

The court is staffed with residents from the community and in the long run, will aid in the economic development of Kwakwani. The building was constructed by A&E Consultant Inc and is valued at $37,856,838.

The Chancellor explained that previously, persons seeking legal redress had to leave Kwakwani and travel for hours by boat and land to New Amsterdam, Berbice to attend the Berbice Magistrate’s Court.

“Persons undertook an even longer and arduous journey for

justice than we experience…

Access to justice was impeded by the geographical boundaries and the magisterial districts,” she said.

She added that the length of time and cost persons had

The ceremony ended with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting and the unveiling of a plaque

by Magistrate Fortune and the Attorney General.

Also in attendance were Chief Justice (ag), Roxane

The interior of Kwakwani Magistrate’s Court

to endure to travel to New Amsterdam, hindered the judicial administration’s mission of providing access to justice in a timely and efficient manner.

She also paid tribute to the late former Chancellor of the Judiciary, retired Justice Cecil Kennard, who played a significant role in the delivery of justice in the Kwakwani district.

George; several senior judges and magistrates, residents of the Kwakwani community and Region 10 officials.

Guyana has over 50 magistrate’s courts including the Bail Court, Drug Treatment and Rehabilitation Court, Juvenile Court and the Sexual Offences Court.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

$4.5B in contracts signed to construct, upgrade hinterland roads and bridges

THE Public Works Ministry, on Friday, signed a number of contracts for the construction and upgrade of roads and bridges in the hinterland regions and communities along the coast.

The contracts signed at the ministry’s Kingston office, include those for the upgrade of 32 bridges between Kurupukari and Lethem to the tune of $3.19 billion along with $1.5 billion for hinterland roads, a release from the Department of Public Information (DPI) said.

Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill explained that the construction and upgrade of the roads and bridges in the hinterland forms part of the government’s strategy to advance hinterland development through enhanced inter-connectivity.

While work is advancing on the US $190 million Linden to Mabura Road project, works will also commence on upgrading all the bridges to concrete structures, since the road is the first phase of what will be the Linden to Lethem Road.

this year,” Minister Edghill explained.

He said the investment of over $1.5 billion in hinterland roads follows consultations with residents, Toshaos and other village leaders. He noted further, that this is just the first phase of the awarding of contracts for roads in the hinterland.

Meanwhile, the DPI re-

port noted that the sum of $740.1 million in contracts was also signed for farm-to-market roads to ensure farmers across the country have access to better roads to get their produce to the market. The project also aligns with the government’s plan to ensure the country becomes a major player in providing agricultural products to the Caribbean and to reduce

Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill and Permanent Secretary, Vladim Persaud with the contractors during the signing of the contracts

“This is no small project and must be treated seriously, because the intent is that this road must meet all international standards and the removing of the timber bridges and putting of concrete bridges must be to international standards,” the Public Works Minister stated.

The bridge project will be done in six lots, with six contractors being awarded contracts. Minister Edghill noted the need for great communication and coordination among the contractors, since

the thoroughfare will have to remain open for the residents to traverse.

In addition to the Linden to Mabura road project and bridge upgrades, the government is also working to ensure that there is a direct link between Regions Eight and Nine.

“Last year, we worked with the toshaos and communities in Region Eight to improve the roads between the villages and commenced works on the road between the two regions.

Those works will continue

In addition to the Linden to Mabura road project and bridge upgrades, the government is also working to ensure that there is a direct link between Regions Eight and Nine

CARICOM’s import bill by 25 per cent by 2025.

Further, the sum of $139.1 million was awarded for the upgrade of bridges along the coast. These include bridges along the Railway Embankment. Additionally, the ministry will be procuring a number of equipment including milling machines at a cost of $117. 7 million to equip its Force Account Unit.

Minister Edghill made it clear that the final award and issuance of contracts was done through a public tendering process and that it was advertised and contractors had an opportunity to bid for the various projects. Contractors were urged to ensure quality work is delivered within the stipulated deadline.

These projects are as a direct result of President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s vision to ensure Guyana’s infrastructural transformation is spread across all communities in the country.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

Jackie Persaud turns 90

JACKIE Persaud, former president of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU), hit a major milestone on Thursday, as he is now 90 years old.

At his place of residence in Enterprise, East Coast Demerara (ECD), a birthday party was held to celebrate the continued life of the nonagenarian.

GAWU’s President, Seepaul Narine, could not attend the celebration, but remarks were delivered on his behalf by a representative of GAWU. “Brother Yankie, you have been contributing tremendously!” he said.

“The union recognised this…. You continue to be a part of this union; and

we will continue to work on building this union with the foundation you have created for GAWU,” he said.

The representative expressed appreciation of Persaud for his work done at GAWU. Persaud was raised in Enterprise where he attended primary school.

He did not attend secondary school, but instead supported his family’s farm.

For his part, the birthday boy said the most significant part of his life was the time he spent with the sugar workers and his political life.

“Life for me was very challenging in the back years. It was a great achievement and honour

Jackie ‘Brother Yankie’ Persaud and three of his grand-daughters

to be acknowledged,” Persaud shared with great sentiment.

Married for 50 years, Persaud had six children with his wife who died 10 years ago. Sadly, one of his children also passed.

Nevertheless, Persaud proudly boasts 24 grandchildren and 11

great-grandchildren. He currently resides with one of his sons in a home shared with three of his grandchildren. The former GAWU leader is in great health, with only arthritis as a medical con-

dition affecting his life.

Persaud loves to travel and even shared that, when he visited Iraq in the Middle East, he dined with now-deceased Iraqi politician, Saddam Hussein.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

‘I quit my job for my daughter with cerebral palsy’

— Little Biaboo’s Grace Khan tells her story

By Shari Simon NESTLED on the bank of the Mahaica River between the picturesque villages, ‘Handsome Tree’ and ‘Big Biaboo’, Grace Khan’s home sits on the edge of ‘Little Biaboo’ in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) surrounded by a fishing pond, an overladen lime tree, and a large farm of bora soon to be picked and sold to sustain her family.

“We do farming for a living,” Grace said. She is a 66-year-old native of the village, and daughter of 88-yearold, Zulaika Husein and 91-year-old, Shamir ‘Manuel’ Husein.

The ‘Manuel Canal’, a

of the first residents of that village.

Husein, called ‘Khanchan’, came from Cane Grove to Mahaica Creek and started cultivating rice to provide for his wife, Ogeran, and their seven children.

Husein and Ogeran’s son, Abdul Kadir, then married Zakeera Kadir and had nine children in total, including Shamir who followed in his father’s footsteps and became a rice farmer.

As a child, Grace recalled playing ‘jacks’ and ‘sal-out’, and helping her father who was working as a rice farmer, cattle farmer and dragline operator on the family estate. It’s not as yet clear how the canal was nicknamed after Grace’s

Grace Khan (extreme left) with her parents, children, and grandchildren

tributary of the Mahaica River that divides the villages of ‘Little Biaboo’ and ‘Big Biaboo’, runs beneath a wooden bridge separating the two villages.

Being the daughter of the eldest couple in the village, Grace related that it was her paternal great-grandfather, Gulam Husein, who was one

father, Manuel.

“I’d help him too!” she gestured to her husband, Roshan, whom she would assist on the farm as they planted and harvested cash crops. “We plant bora, peppers, limes, pears, guavas and even psydium,” she noted.

Apart from earnestly tending to their family farm, Grace’s main responsibility,

like many other women, rested on balancing household chores and providing daily care for her elderly parents who live nearby. She also cared for her daughter who has cerebral palsy and is also asthmatic.

“Life has been really tough having a child with an illness,” the mother of three shared, “but thank God she’s better now. Years gone back, she was really really sick.”

Earlier in her years, Grace was a nursery school teacher at the Biaboo Primary School, which back then had a section that held the nursery school.

“I’d spent around 12 years teaching,” recalled Grace. She eventually made the difficult decision to leave her teaching career behind, and enter a fulltime responsibility of caring for her daughter.

FAITH AND FERVENT PRAYERS A convert from Islam to Christianity, she enthusiastically remarked that it was actually her faith and fervent prayers that gave her the strength and courage to never give up despite the many challenges she faced along the way.

Caring for a child with cerebral palsy, a neurological disorder that affects a person’s ability to control his/her muscles, requires time, resources and unconditional love.

Grace knew that even though she loved teaching and admired the way children lit up in her classroom, being a mother meant creating and nurturing a safe-space for her daughter, Razia, to get unconditional love and support.

Four generations of Khan family women

“Razia is 41 years old.

She is smart, but her physical strength isn’t there. She loves to play games on the phone and she likes to ‘gaff’. She is very loving and helpful,” Grace said.

Because of the lack of special education and facilities for persons living with a disability at the time, Grace would teach Razia to read and write at home.

On days when her daughter was seriously ill, Grace reflected on how difficult it was to access transportation,

stating that they had to take a boat to leave the village to make steady hospital visits.

Fortunately, in recent times, the village has seen continuous development with improvements to its potable water supply, electricity system, internet services and roadway.

In Grace’s childhood, a ‘paddle canoe’ was usually the main transportation mode among households.

Today, Grace, who is now a pensioner, spends a lot of time knitting chair back cov-

erings and tablecloths.

Early in the morning, she likes reading the daily newspapers online instead of going to the Mahaica market to buy the hardcopy papers.

She enjoys eating a delicious plate of stew chicken, pot-roast chicken and chowmein with a glass of cold lime wash or swank.

When her younger daughter comes to visit, she enjoys watching her grandchildren play a good game of cricket in the sun and hopes that a playground can be built for children in the village to engage in different recreational activities and a computer facility constructed to support improving the literacy rate of youths.

With no regrets about the decision she made to sacrifice her teaching career to fulfil her role as a devoted mother, Grace is determined to remain resilient and, no doubt, truly exemplifies the meaning of her name, “the free and unmerited favour granted by God.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

Fire Service now equipped to trace prank calls THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) has collaborated with the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) to modernise its calling and reporting infrastructure through the donation of four phones equipped with caller ID and recorders.

According to a release, revealing that the GTT Business Solutions team is committed to a continued partnership with the Fire Service, Sales Lead of GTT Business Solutions Vishwanath Ishwardin noted that in addition to the phones, GTT will also be providing a monthly report of all inbound calls

to the 912 line to help track prank callers.

It is unlawful to perform a prank call to an emergency service, a practice that has increased in the past few years, and hampers the Service’s ability to effectively perform its duties.

“GTT Business Solutions is elated to provide this solution to the Fire Service, and by extension, all in Guyana, bolstering our commitment to the customer to strengthen the community,” Ishwardin explained.

Stemming from a commitment made during a meeting in February last, this initiative will improve the

Business Solutions Sales Lead Vishwanath Ishwardin (left) handing over one of the phones to Fire Chief (ag) Gregory Wickham

capacity of the Fire Service to provide timely responses to fire reports. According to Fire Chief (ag) Gregory Wickham, the phones will allow the Service to see a reduction in the prank calls being made to the Fire Service through the Caller ID capturing and conversation recording functionalities.

“I am grateful for this seasoned partnership, and look forward to more support from the GTT team to help improve our work and operations. These phones will make the service more efficient,” the acting Fire Chief added.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

Small Island Developing States should make their voices heard

— they are most affected by climate change, says Minister Mustapha WITH many countries in this part of the region being the most affected by the devastating impacts of climate change, Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha has called on other Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to voice their thoughts and opinions on matters relating to the global climate change mitigating efforts.

Minister Mustapha was at the time addressing the

of a new growth trajectory in a non-polluting way.

Recognising that the first objective of the LCDS required international action, Guyana sought a partner who shared the country’s vision, and, in 2009, Guyana and Norway agreed to work together to create a model to advance these efforts. At that time our then President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo and the Government of Norway signed an

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha

37th session of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean in Quito, Ecuador, a release said.

While speaking during Friday’s ministerial session on better environment and better life, Minister Mustapha said that developing countries and SIDS have very low CO2 emissions levels when compared to developed countries with large established industries.

Given the fact that developing states are most affected, the minister noted that it was time for developing countries to take the lead in making and guiding the necessary steps to curb climate change.

In highlighting Guyana’s efforts in this regard, he explained that, for years, Guyana has been recognised for its global leadership in climate and forest conservation efforts and interventions through its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS).

“Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) is a framework intended to map the part

agreement that would see Norway providing Guyana with results-based payments for forest climate services alongside cooperation between the countries in the fight against climate change, the protection of biodiversity, and the enhancement of sustainable development. For the period 2009 to 2015, Guyana earned US$212.5 million which was then invested in our LCDS. This has created low carbon jobs enabling Indigenous villages to receive legal titles for communion lands, funded critical rehabilitation of canals to protect against flooding as well as the initial procurement of materials to equip Indigenous and hinterland communities with renewable energies, digital infrastructure, and sustainable livelihood opportunities,” the minister explained.

Noting that the productive sectors, more so the agriculture sector of developing countries and SIDS are often left with long-term effects following natural disasters brought on by climate change, the minister reiterated the point that

those most affected should be allowed to take the lead in guiding the steps to curb climate change.

“In the developing world, we are adversely

affected by climate change, more so in our agriculture sector given the fact that agriculture remains a high income generating sector in the economy and for

us to produce we need to have a conducive climate.

As developing countries, we need to take the lead in making and guiding the necessary steps to curb cli-

mate change,” the minister said.

Minister Mustapha also served as chair during the conference’s afternoon session, the release noted.

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Russell helps KKR past KXIP

(ESPNCRICINFO) - Two of the most exciting sides in this IPL threw punch after punch at one another, but in the end Punjab Kings backed off slightly against Kolkata Knight Riders, and paid a big price.

Kings played the game Knight Riders did two nights ago in an attempt to provide for the inevitable dew and chasing advantage: just keep going hard and refuse to rebuild until that is the last option left. It is a shame that just like for Knight Riders, it didn't work out for Kings. They were bowled out for 137 with 10 balls to spare, a total which Knight Riders chased down in 14.3 overs despite being 51 for 4.

Right from their team selection, Knight Riders kept picking the aggressive option.

They replaced a wicketkeeper-batter with a specialist bowler, went for wickets every time Kings threatened to run away, bowled out their four main bowlers in the first 17 to try to bowl Kings out, and then, at 51 for 4, a circumspect Andre Russell saw them through with 70 off 31.

CRASH, BANG, WALLOP Of the eight sixes that he hit, Russell said he nailed only one; that's how difficult it was going to be to defend, if Kings had put on a par score. And with the build-up of their side, they were not going to go for a par score.

Mayank Agarwal got himself out playing across the line in the first over. Bhanuka Rajapaksa responded with some sweet aerial clips on the leg-side in a nine-ball 31, but the

Andre Russell - power and placement, Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders, IPL 2022, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, yesterday (BCCI)

suffering bowler Shivam Mavi got him with an aggressive short ball. Tim Southee then got the better of Shikhar Dhawan, who had just started to hit out, with an off-cutter. Kings 62 for 3 in 5.5 overs.

CHAKRAVARTHY, NARINE APPLY BRAKES These three overs might not get spoken about a lot, but Varun Chakravarthy and Sunil Narine combined to bowl overs five, six and eight without a single boundary, conceding just 16 runs. In the middle was Liam Livingstone. It was all building up to something.

UMESH'S HURRAH Shreyas didn't try to sneak in a cheap over here. He went right back to Umesh Yadav, the joint-leading wicket-taker in the IPL at

that point. Umesh produced the wicket of Livingstone, refusing to give him a length full enough to loft. Narine then got the better of Raj Bawa. At 85 for 5 in the 10th over, Kings made their first defensive move, holding back Odean Smith for later.

Chakravarthy and Narine, though, tightened the screws with two tight overs. Denied strike and runs, Shahrukh Khan jumped at the first ball of a new Southee over, and ended up top-edging a skier. Shreyas went to Umesh again, and he took out Harpreet Brar and Rahul Chahar to make it 102 for 8 in the 15th over.

RABADA'S DEBUT Shreyas now thought he could perhaps get away with not having to go back to Mavi. He bowled Chakravarthy's last in the 16th and Southee's in the 17th. Rabada, who couldn't lay bat on Chakravarthy, enjoyed the pace Southee provided to take 16 runs off his over.

And when Mavi travelled, too, it seemed Shreyas might have to pay for his aggression.

Russell, though, ended the innings in two balls in the 19th over.

CRASH, BANG, WALLOP, PART 2 Ajinkya Rahane hit two fours in the first over. Out in the next. Venkatesh Iyer tried to blast one through cover-point. Caught.

Shreyas ran away to 26 off 11, but tried to burst through his poor match-up against Chahar, and was caught off the slog sweep to make it three dismissals in 15 balls against the

leg-spinner. Chahar then produced a beauty to have Nitish Rana lbw.

RUSSELL SHOW Not often does Russell get to bat inside the first 10 overs. He says his ideal entry point is around the 15th over when around five overs are left in the innings. So one way to make an eighth-over entry ideal was to end the game in 13.

However, the way Russell played Chahar, it didn't look like he was in any hurry. Two overs of Russell at the wicket, and not a single boundary scored or tried. It was getting uneasy. This is where Shreyas went for his wicket-takers in the first innings. Agarwal gave Harpreet's slow left-arm another over.

It was too much respect to ask of Russell. He took two sixes over the bigger boundary in that over before going ahead and playing out Chahar's next.

Agarwal had no choice but to go to one of the quicker bowlers in the 12th, and he chose Smith over Rabada. Russell took his fellow Jamaican apart in the 30-run over, dismantling his round-the-wicket plan. Sam Billings, who played a calm hand, cashed in on a free hit last ball of the over.

Russell still showed no ego, and proceeded to play out Chahar's final over even when the asking rate was under four an over. He then took Knight Riders home in the 15th over with successive sixes off Livingstone. Almost the ideal entry point then.

Harmer returns to wreak havoc against Bangladesh

(ESPNCRICINFO) - Simon Harmer marked his return to Test cricket by taking the first four Bangladesh wickets on the second afternoon in Durban. The off-spinner, who took 491 wickets between this Test and his last in 2015, pegged away at the visitors.

Earlier in the day, his dogged 38 off 73 balls had helped South Africa to 367 after they were 298 for 8 at one point. In reply, Bangladesh ended the day at 98 for 4.

Bad light during the afternoon meant that South

Africa used their fast bowlers Duanne Olivier and Lizaad Williams for just nine overs.

Harmer and Maharaj wheeled away for 20 overs and 19 overs respectively.

Harmer first removed Shadman Islam for 9 before tea and then bowled Najmul Hossain Shanto for 38 with a delivery that turned and hit the top of off-stump. Arguably, it was Harmer's best ball on the day - a lovely offbreak that turned past the outside edge and ended a 55-run partnership for the second wicket.

In Harmer's next over, Mominul fell, to Keegan 10:55 hrs Dorking Lad 11:30 hrs Leave Of Absence

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Petersen's brilliant catch at silly point, for a duck. To compound Bangladesh's troubles, Harmer also removed Mushfiqur Rahim in the 46th over of the innings, Kyle Verreynne taking a good catch down the leg side.

Harmer had earlier played a crucial role in South Africa putting together a competitive total. He added 34 for the ninth wicket with Williams and then 35 for the last wicket with Olivier to frustrate Bangladesh. He stepped up when South Africa needed a contribution from the lower order.

The contest was perhaps

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even when Khaled Ahmed removed Verreynne and Wiaan Mulder off consecutive balls in the morning session. After Verreynne was trapped lbw, Mulder edged Khaled's next ball to gully where Mahmudul Hasan Joy took the first of his two sharp catches at gully.

In the morning session, South Africa lost 4 for 53, but they bounced back strongly later in the day.

Temba Bavuma and Maharaj added 53 runs for the seventh wicket before Mehidy Hasan Miraz got one to rip back into Bavuma. The South Africa captain top-scored

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday April 2, 2022)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Kemar Roach/Jayden Seales-11 wickets each (2) Jack Leach-11 wickets Today’s Quiz: (1) Which WI made the highest individual score in the recent Test series against ENG? (2) Which ENG player made the highest individual score?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Najmul Hossain Shanto was bowled by Simon Harmer for 38, South Africa vs Bangladesh, 1st Test, Durban, yesterday (AFP/Getty Images)

with 93 off 190 balls. Next ball, Ebadot Hossain bowled Maharaj for 19.

Olivier and Harmer batted out 12 overs before Olivier played back to another big-turning off-break from Mehidy and fell lbw.

Khaled finished with 4 for 92, Mehidy 3 for 94 and Taskin, who was the Playerof-the-Series in the ODIs, went wicket-less yesterday although he put in an excellent shift with the ball.

34

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

Ministry of Sport, Team Mohamed’s support Rawle Toney 3X3 in Linden The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, along with Team Mohamed’s, is the latest sponsor of the April 23 Rawle Toney 3X3 Classic in Linden.

Eight teams from Linden, West Demerara and Georgetown, will converge on the residence of National Sports Commission Chairman, Kashif Muhammad, in Richmond Hill.

While Team Mohamed’s, through its principle, Azruddin Mohamed, would’ve supported Toney before,, this marks the Ministry’s first time sponsoring the event.

According to Toney, it didn’t take much to convince Minister of Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, to support the tournament, since the initiative aligns perfectly with the Minister’s vision and directives for sports in Guyana.

Toney noted, “Minister Ramson is keen on talent development through tournaments and infrastructural development, and I’m more than happy to have the Ministry on board. My tournament aims to develop and provide an unmatched platform for 3X3 bas-

Tournament organiser Rawle Toney

Azruddin Mohamed

ketball in Guyana at various age groups, and with the continuous support of the Ministry, I will be able to achieve that goal.”

Mohamed, known for his philanthropy, was commended by Toney for once again believing in the aim and objective of the tournament.

Toney added, “Azruddin Mohamed’s support for this tournament is something

I can’t truly describe at the moment. But I appreciate his unwavering backing once again.”

Meanwhile, in giving an update on the preparation for the tournament, Toney said plans are moving along smoothly.

He added, “At this point, it’s just a matter of tying up some loose ends and ensuring that the people of Linden are treated to an

GMR&SC apologises to fans, sets April 10 as date for incomplete classes … Spectators to enter free

In the future, we are planning to ensure that the area where these instruments are placed remains sterile of fans and other persons who may unintentionally upset the equipment.”

The incomplete classes of action will get a chance to be run off on April 11 (Ameer Sattaur photo)

THE Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) wishes to apologise to its fans, spectators and racers for its failure to complete its March 27 Quarter-Mile Return drag race meet.

Following the events of the Quarter-Mile Return meet, we feel the need to clear the air on several issues regarding the event and the way forward for those competitors who were not able to run their time brackets, namely the 15-second, the 14-second and 13-second time brackets.

The premature end to the day was the result of fading light combined with the fact that spectators had crowded both the start and finish lines, making it impossible for any more races to be run off.

At that time, Team Mohamed’s GTR Godzilla was attempting a ‘bye’ (single) run for the strip record - a run that had to be abandoned due to the circumstances stated above.

We wish to state that while we are grateful for the fan support which was considered to be one of the largest in recent history for drag racing, we also

wish to remind those spectators that their safety and the safety of our competitors, marshals and officials are of paramount importance.

As such, we have convened a special committee to firstly identify where the shortfalls occurred on March 27 and to recommend changes to prevent its reoccurrence.

SENSOR MALFUNCTIONS AND SYSTEM ERRORS We are cognizant of the fact that there were at least two instances of a prolonged period where we were unable to carry on any events. These were in full due to a malfunctioning down-track sensor which after investigation, resulted from ardent race supporters unintentionally dis-aligning the instruments used for timing and the fact that the sensor itself failed shortly after.

On separate occasions, we were forced to shut down the timing system, re-align the sensors and in one case change an entire sensor before re-starting the system and resuming racing. This takes time hence the lag in racing action.

INCOMPLETE CLASSES AND EVENTS After careful deliberations with all stakeholders, we have decided that those incomplete classes will have one day of planned action. A majority of the competitors have confirmed this as the most amicable way forward.

After said deliberations, April 10, 2022 is the proposed date only for the completion of these classes.

FREE ENTRY FOR FANS AND SPECTATORS Again, we are cognizant that we have let our fans and racing enthusiasts down by not completing the event in a timely manner and as such, we owe it to them to make up to them as much as possible.

As such, we have decided that when we host the completion of the 15-second, the 14-second and 13-second time brackets, proposed for April 10 2022, all fans will enter the venue free of cost.

It is imperative that fans understand that adherence to the marshals and officials are of the utmost importance to ensuring that the day is run-off effectively and safely.

Fans are also reminded to follow the flow of traffic.

As a club, we look forward to ensuring that this event goes off without a hitch.

unforgettable evening of basketball and entertainment. This entire fusion of entertainment and basketball is new to Linden, but it is a perfect fit for the community. Linden is known for sports and a place where you have the best parties and this is the experience I want to give people in my community.”

“This edition of the tournament means a lot to me. I receive a lot of love from the community; it’s also where I’m from. So I want to put on a special event for the people, especially since we haven't had basketball in Linden for over two years,” Toney lamented.

As it relates to the entertainment aspect of the tournament, Barbados’ recording artiste, ‘Mole de Chief’, will be performing alongside other local artistes and the country’s most popular Deejays.

The eight teams will compete for $100 000 and other prizes. Each team will also receive an appearance fee of $25 000.

Jump-ball time is 18:00hrs, with live entertainment right after the basketball aspect of the event.

GSCL, SFSCL saddened by the passing of softball stalwart Lakhram ‘Mike’ Singh THE executives and members of the Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc. (GSCL) and the South Florida Softball Cricket League (SFSCL) are saddened by the untimely passing of Lakhram ‘Mike’ Singh, the late proprietor of Mike’s Pharmacy and owner of Wellman Softball Cricket team.

Singh, popularly known as ‘Mike’ passed away suddenly on Thursday, reportedly from a massive heart attack after collapsing on the field at Brian Piccolo Park while representing Wellman in the ongoing 16th edition of the SFSCL tournament. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed a few hours later, casting a damper among the 22 participating teams and organisers.

Singh, who was also fondly called Shane Warne, because of the huge turning leg-breaks, was leading his side in their second preliminary round match.

The GSCL, in a release said “It wishes to extend sympathies to the immediate family of Singh, the staff of Mike's Pharmacy, his former teammates and by extension the entire cricket fraternity on the passing of the softball cricket stalwart and huge sponsor of sports in general.

“The news of Mike's death has placed a damper on the ongoing Florida Cup in Fort Lauderdale but as a league we

will dedicate the rest of the tournament to our beloved friend who was on his maiden tour with Wellman.

According to the GSCL, “Our prayers are with his wife, children, other relatives and many friends at this difficult time.

“We have lost a true gentleman who was a fierce competitor on the field. Mikey died while doing what he loved.

Meanwhile, the SFSCL Secretary Anoop Basdeo, who also issued a press release, said his league shared the “terrible tragedy” that took place on Thursday.

“We lost a good friend and a great champion of cricket, Mike from Mike's Pharmacy.

“On behalf of the FL Cup Committee and everyone involved, we would like to extend our sincere condolences to Mike's wife, children, friends and family. We are deeply saddened by his passing and pray that we all find comfort in the wonderful memories we shared with Mike.

“After numerous phone calls and discussions, the Wellman team will continue in the tournament in Mike's honour. They feel this is what Mike would have wanted.”

The SFCL has requested all teams to observe a moment of silence before the start of their respective games yesterday morning. (Frederick Halley)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, April 2, 2022

East Coast Cricket Board/NavinHanso 50 overs First Division ... … Chandrika, Khan hit centuries

FORMER West Indies opener Rajendra Chandrika and former first-class leg-spinner Amir Khan hit centuries to highlight the first round of the East Coast Cricket Board/ Navin-Hanso 50 Overs first division cricket competition, which was played last weekend.

Zone A At the Enterprise Community Centre ground, Enmore Cricket Club defeated Enterprise Busta Sports Club

by 88 runs. Batting first, Enmore CC made 245-7 off their allotted 50 overs with Khan hitting an even century before being dismissed, while Chaitram Balgobin, batting at number six, supported well with 81. Bowling for Enterprise Sports Club, Dave Persaud took 3-33.

In reply, Enterprise were dismissed for 167 in 38.1 overs with Chandrika batting through the innings to stroke an unbeaten 101. Richard Chatura took 3-29 while Khan returned with the ball to

DCB/Premier Insurance U15 Inter-Association 2022 Tournament DCB/Premier Insurance U15 Inter-association 2022 tournament, continued with round two on Wednesday and yesterday.

Yesterday, Dravid Manohar’s five-wicket haul helped the East Bank side claim victory by 37 runs over the Upper Demerara team at Farm Ground.

Upper Demerara won the toss and decided to bowl first, dismissing the East Bank side for 77 from 28.4 overs with Sayyad Lakeram top-scoring with 21. No other batter scored double figures.

Keron Phillips collected 4 for 16 while Javid Chatram supported with 2 for 23.

In reply Upper Demerara struggled as they fell for 40 from 20.5 overs. Manohar claimed 5 for 12 and Lakeram took 4 for 14 On Wednesday, East Bank humbled West Demerara by 7 wickets. Josiah Lim scored an unbeaten half-century while Manohar ripped through the batting line up.

Playing at Meten-meer-Zorg, West Demerara won the toss and elected to bat scoring 108 all out from 48.4 overs. Arvin Suknanan scored 20, Shaker Lall 18 and Parmeshwar Ram 12. Manohar was the most instrumental bowler grabbing 6 for 24.

In reply, East Bank raced to their victory target as three wickets fell in 13.2 overs with Lim scoring a brilliant 69 not out, supported by Manohar 17.

take 3-43 to complete a fine all-round performance.

In another match played at Strathavon, Mahaica Sports Club were skittled out for just 77 in 24.1 overs with Darshan Persaud making 30 and Andy Ali supporting with 26. Prakash Chowti had impressive figures of 4-4 in 3.1 overs and Gobindram Hemraj took 4-20 from 7 overs bowling for Strathavon.

Strathavon then took just 14.2 overs to get to their target losing 3 wickets in the process. Chowti returned

with the bat to hit an unbeaten 20 while Chaves Ageday was unbeaten on 17 when the run chase was completed. Persaud took all 3 of the wickets to fall for Strathavon.

Zone B Over at LBI Facility Ground, the home team lost to Ogle Cricket Club by 5 wickets. LBI Cricket Club took first strike after winning the toss but managed to get only 112 before they were dismissed in the 42nd over.

Moonsammy Veerasammy

Amir Khan

Rajendra Chandrika

top-scored with 22. D. Ranbalall was the chief destroyer with fantastic figures of 4-10 in 9 overs while B. Singh and D. Junior had 2 wickets apiece.

Ogle CC in reply, raced to their target in just 20.5 overs for the loss of 5 wickets.

Leading the run chase was A. Jitlall with 45. Bowling for LBI CC, R. Deonarain had impressive figures of 3-13 in 4 overs while Y. Bishun took 2-17.

Play in the East Coast

Cricket Board/Navin-Hanso 50 Overs first division cricket competition continues on Sunday April 6, 2022 with a host of matches.

Strathavon take on Enterprise SC at Strathavon, Enmore CC will host Fairfield CC, Mahaica battle Lusignan at Lusignan, Buxton vs Golden Grove at Buxton, LBI host Better Hope and at the Enterprise Community Centre ground, Ogle CC and Industry Stars will do battle.

CWI, BCA deliver development sessions to upgrade coaches

CRICKET West Indies (CWI) Coaching Development Programme, in conjunction with the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA) and the University of the West Indies (UWI) delivered a series of face-to-face Coach Development events in Barbados from March 25 to 27.

The events were aimed to upskill, assess and accredit local coaches and coach developers from the CWI Level 1 to Level 3 coaching programmes to support the West Indies Cricket Pathway.

In its promise to lift coaching standards, over the past three years, CWI has delivered 552 new coaching certificates across eight Caribbean countries - 93 at Level 2, 129 at Level 1, and 330 at the Foundation Level. 16 CWI Coach Developers have also been trained to deliver Level 1 Courses locally.

A total of 25 participants took part in the face-to-face components of the CWI Competition Coaching Course (Level 1) and the CWI Representative Coaching Programme (Level 2) which were held concurrently at Kensington Oval. Among the coaches who completed the courses were West Indies players

Chris Brabazon conducting the coaching courses at Kensington Oval

Dwayne Smith, Kirk Edwards, Shane Dowrich, Shayne Moseley and Charlene Taitt, with a total of five female coaches participating along with several current and former first-class players.

Both cohorts participated in separate online modules throughout March covering theoretical aspects of coaching in preparation for the face-to-face part of the programme which covered practical modules such as biomechanics, skill acquisition, applied coaching and game sense.

CWI Coach Development Manager, Chris Brabazon shared his thoughts on the events.

“Initiatives like this are part of the CWI strategy to make Coach Development opportunities more accessible and inclusive for anyone who would like to learn more about coaching and then use that training to actively grow the game in their communities.

The BCA did a fantastic job in promoting the courses and assisting with the delivery. In particular, Coach Developers Rohan Nurse,

Robin Paris and Hendy Springer, who are now able to present future Level 1 courses around Barbados as required. Also, the support from our UWI Coach Developers continues to be excellent in the development and delivery of our Level 2 and Level 3 Coaching Programmes,” he said.

Dowrich said: “The course was very productive. I learnt a lot over the last couple of weeks, which included the online modules. It has been very interesting and opened my mind to a lot of things I haven’t been thinking about as a cricketer.

It’s good to have the theory side and also looking at how to apply that to the practical side, which we did here at Kensington. The education in this programme is critical and will help to improve cricket in the Caribbean.”

Brabazon was also able to observe local coaches who are taking part in CWI’s first-ever locally delivered Level 3 Coaching Programme. Jamal Smith and Corey Yearwood are taking part in the ongoing 12-month programme and were observed during their respective coaching sessions at Kensington Oval and Pickwick Cricket Club.

NSC supports PanAm badminton team with $1.6M THE Guyana Badminton Association (GBA) yesterday benefited from the National Sports Commission’s generosity when the entity received $1.6M for its participation at this year’s Yonex Panam Individual Championship.

Ramdhani siblings, Narayan and Priyanna, along with Akili Haynes and Tyrese Jeffrey, will be Guyana’s representatives at the 15th edition of the tournament, which is set for San Salvador, El Salvador, April 26-30.

Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, after wishing the team a successful PanAm Championships, lauded the GBA for its continuous push to develop the sport.

Emily Ramdhani, GBA secretary, thanked the

NSC for the support.

Meanwhile, according to the GBA, Narayan Ramdhani, who’s ranked 366 (Singles), and 297 (Mixed-Doubles), is attending the tournament to get the necessary ranking points to qualify for the 2024 Olympics Games in Paris, France.

Priyanna Ramdhani, ranked 411 (Singles), 297 (Mixed-Doubles) in the world, will be seeking higher ranking points, while also helping her brother, Narayan, to gain more points by playing the mixed-doubles event with him.

Haynes and Jeffrey are also aiming to increase their ranking points, and will be competing in the singles, the doubles and mixed-doubles categories.

Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle (right), presents NSC’s $1.6M cheque to GBA secretary Emily Ramdhani

36

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, AprilP2,A 2022 GE

34

The incomplete classes of action will get a chance to be run off on April 11 (Ameer Sattaur photo)

GMR&SC apologises to fans, sets April 10 as date for incomplete classes … Spectators to enter free

PAGE

GSCL, SFSCL saddened by the passing of softball stalwart Lakhram ‘Mike’ Singh 34 PAGE

Lakhram ‘Mike’ Singh

33 Andre Russell - power and placement, Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders, IPL 2022, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, yesterday (BCCI)

Russell helps KKR past KXIP

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SATURDAY, APRIL 2, 2022