Guyana Times - Sunday November 7, 2021

Tapakuma: A budding tourist destination in a quaint Indigenous village Nationwide coverage coverage from from the the best best news news team team in in Guyana Guyana Nationwide Issue No. 4824 guyanatimesgy.com

P14

THE BEACON BEACON OF OF TRUTH TRUTH THE

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021

Amaila Falls hydro will address manufacturing needs, blackout woes Ashni Singh …says Guyanese have suffered unreliable, expensive electricity for too long Page 3

$750M in contracts signed for construction of 100 homes in Region 6

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Jamaican couple fined $2.8M P9 for trafficking Guyanese teen Close to 100 EBE residents get P5 land titles after over 20-year wait

See story on page 21

…over 500 jobs to be created

Crushed by metal lift

Dilapidated revetment causes flooding in Riverstown Page 23

8 more COVID-19 deaths, 86 new cases …death toll now 941 Page 7

Despite COVID-19 challenges

Region 2, SVN students shine at CSEC, CAPE

“Is best God deh tek me P23 and lef me only son” – mother of dead man

More regional, international direct travel routes to P22 Guyana soon – Foreign Ministry

Page 26

Grounded by faith, Lindener Niomi Alsopp admitted to the bar P20

Anuradah Basdeo 17 Grade Ones, 2 Grade Twos (CSEC)

Kelly Sankar - 16 Grade Ones, 4 Grade twos (CSEC)

Faraz Yassin - 17 Grade Ones, 1 Grade two(CSEC)

Roushnie Lall - 16 Grade Ones, 4 Grade Twos (CSEC)

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, Nov 7 – 04:00h – 05:30h and Monday, Nov 8 – 04:00h – 05:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, Nov 7 – 05:45h – 07:15h and Monday, Nov 8 – 06:35h – 08:35h

FERRY SCHEDULE

Amaila Falls hydro will address manufacturing needs, blackout woes – Ashni Singh

…says Guyanese have suffered unreliable, expensive electricity for too long

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily

WEATHER TODAY There will be thundery showers during the day.

Expect light cloud at night. Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: South South-Easterly to West NorthWesterly between 1.34 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 18:08h reaching a maximum height of 2.83 metres.

Low Tide: 11:42h reaching a minimum height of 0.55 metre.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2021

LOTTERY NUMBERS F

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FREE TICKET

09 Bonus Ball

DAILY MILLIONS

02 03 11 16 26 LUCKY 3

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Afternoon Draw

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Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

03 05 10 13 14 16 19 SUPER

PAY DAY

PAY DAY

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2021

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DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$82.74/barrel

Rough Rice

$243.77/ton

+0.73

London Sugar

$507.70/ton

+0.18

Live Spot Gold

+2.66

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1818.00

$1819.00

Low/High Change

$1784.70 0.00

$1819.00 0.00%

Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh

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he Amaila Falls Hydropower Project (AFHP); the construction of which was recently awarded to China Railway Group, will not only address the blackout woes experienced by ordinary Guyanese, but also boost Guyana’s manufacturing sector.

During a recent interview, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh spoke of Amaila Falls and what Guyana can expect from the hydropower project.

For instance, he said that the project has the potential to reduce the blackout woes many experience.

“I don’t believe there is anybody in Guyana who does not appreciate the impact that inadequate, unreliable and expensive energy has had on our country.

And I’m not only referring to the inconvenience we suffer in our homes. That, for a long time, has been a bugbear on daily life in Guyana,” the Minister said.

“So, for a long time the citizenry at large has recognised how important it is to increase the production of electricity and its reliability. And of course, the citizenry has also been paying electricity bills that they consider to be more expensive than it should. So, there is amongst the public a strong recognition of the importance of addressing the problems of the electricity sector.”

Additionally, Dr Singh spoke of the impact it would have on the manufacturing sector and by extension, the economy. He noted that the high cost of electricity supplied by the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) and powered by Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO), is prohibitive for the growth of the manufacturing sector.

“Inadequate supply of electricity has also been a significant bugbear to economic development in Guyana. In particular, I want to highlight industrial and manufacturing and [related] economic activities. For a long time, we have been unable to realise a functional and competitive industrial sector, spe-

cifically because electricity is as expensive as it is.”

“So, for that reason also from the point of view of developing industrial and manufacturing activities and the jobs those would create, a project such as Amaila Falls is also absolutely important,” the Finance Minister said.

A few days ago, it was announced that Cabinet had granted its no objection for China Railway Group Limited to construct the hydro project. China Railway is no stranger to Guyana, having been granted the contract for the East Coast Road Expansion project.

The project will be built under the BOOT model (Build Own Operate Transfer), which will see the Guyana Power and Light buying power from the company at no more than US7.7 cents per kilowatt.

According to the Finance Ministry in a statement, the award of the contract follows the publication of a request for proposals by Government in various national newspapers during the period July 25 to August 15, 2021.

Four companies, the Ministry said, submitted proposals, and China Railway Group Limited was identified as the most “capable partner” by the

The Amaila Falls Hydropower Project

Evaluation Committee after a rigorous evaluation process, following which the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) submitted the relevant recommendation to Cabinet for “no objection”.

The AFHP was first identified in 1976 by the Canadian company “Monenco” during an extensive survey of hydroelectric power potential in Guyana.

Various studies have since justified and strongly supported the construction of the AFHP. The revival of the 165-megawatt Amaila Falls Hydropower Project was one of the promises made by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) in its

manifesto. The project was initiated under the previous PPP/C Administration but was scrapped by the coalition Administration which had controlled the National Assembly by a one-seat Opposition majority.

The Amaila Falls Hydropower Project was the flagship of Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). Amaila was expected to deliver a steady source of clean, renewable energy that would have been affordable and reliable, and was envisioned to meet approximately 90 per cent of Guyana’s domestic energy needs while removing dependency on fossil fuels.

(G3)

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guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021

Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Tightening elections administration

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he history of modern elections laws in Guyana is a history of either facilitating the PNC to take power or attempting to prevent them from rigging elections to keep power. It started with the British changing the Representation of the People’s Act (ROPA) in 1964 from the “First-Past-the -Post” (FPTP) constituency system to “Proportional Representation” (PR), to remove the PPP and install the PNC. It was the only use of PR in the British Empire – including in Britain.

The next change came in 1967 as Burnham prepared to rig the 1968 elections, as revealed in the declassified US Department of State documents. He created a National Register of Registrants (NRR) while denying it would be used to create the Official List of Electors (OLE), which is exactly what occurred. The NRR bloated the age of numerous African Guyanese youths in the expectation they would vote PNC. They also introduced “overseas voting”, controlled by their embassy personnel. In this fashion, the PNC “won” the 1968, 1973, 1980 and 1985 elections.

Consequently, until 1992, there were no substantive changes in ROPA, save for those reflecting the 1980 constitutional changes, creating an Executive Presidency and a Regional System with a ponderous multilayered structure that also sent Members to the National Assembly. With the US-backed return of “free and fair” elections in 1992, changes which the PPP, other parties in the Patriotic Coalition for Democracy, and citizens in and out of Guyana had agitated for over the decades were finally conceded by the PNC. We arrived at the present electoral system with ROPA extensively modified to deal with all the stratagems the PNC had deployed over the years to rig the elections in their favour.

In addition to abolishing overseas voting, the changes included “counting at the place of poll” and tabulation of “Statements of Poll” from each Region by its Regional Officer (RO) before results were compiled by the CEO and declared by the GECOM Commission. The Constitution was also altered to include a newly constituted Elections Commission and Secretariat that was intended to remove the unilateral appointment of the very powerful Chairman by the Government.

Voted out of office for 23 years, the PNC-as-APNU was returned to office in coalition with the AFC in an eerie reenactment of 1964. Unfortunately, they also attempted to reprise their 1968 elections rigging to remain in power, when it was evident they had lost the elections after SOPs from 9 Regions had been tabulated. The sordid tale of spreadsheets and bedsheets used by the Reg 4 RO to manipulate the votes of the people, and the cynical use of the tainted data by the CEO to compile his report to the Commission are now before the Courts.

After the world-record five months to declare a result of the March 2, 2020 Elections’ results, President Irfaan Ali promised that ROPA would be modified to prevent a recurrence of the foiled rigging attempt. The Government has just submitted a draft of the proposed changes, and citizens have six weeks - just before Christmas - to scrutinise the draft and suggest any changes they feel are necessary to ensure elections’ results that reflect the inalienable right to choose their Government.

The suggested changes pretty much attempt to prevent an exact recurrence of the last rigging attempt through plugging gaps exploited by the PNC and imposing very severe penalties, such as heavy fines and extended jail time. They start with the activities at the Polling Places by being more expansive in the information to be shared by the elections officials, agents of the political parties, and observers, so as to minimise claims such as those made by the PNC that dead and non-residents had voted. The problem with these proposals is that at the end of polls on March 2 2020, the PNC officials all declared that they were satisfied with the conduct of the elections, but subsequently backflipped. Against their history, no matter what the safeguards, the PNC will still claim “anomalies”. And, as their General Secretary Amna Ally insisted last year, even a single anomaly would vitiate the entire elections.

The changes to ensure that the CEO and RO also perform their jobs impartially - even with a life sentence hanging over the former’s head - will not deter skullduggery, unless men of impeccable character are chosen.

But try we must.

A Nihang, or Sikh warrior, performing Gatka, an ancient form of Sikh martial arts, during a Fateh Divas celebration a day after the Hindu festival Diwali, in Amritsar, India (AFP photo)

Trying to fight against the law would not do any good

Dear Editor, The new proposed electoral laws are out, and will be up for scrutiny by the political parties, which is by extension to the public, before moving on to Parliament for a debate.

The electoral reform is an overhaul of existing laws, it bears nothing significantly newer than what exists.

The penalties for breaches of the law may be significantly higher and more severe, but, in my overall view, it marks a strengthening of what exists.

While this “new reform law” will have no bearing on the present bunch of persons who have transgressed the law, it does not preclude the court from imposing sentences on the accused. Those

who are found on the wrong side of the law will be prosecuted to the maximum, which would send a clear message that this sort of behaviour in public office will not - I repeat, will not - be tolerated, neither would it have the ability to happen again.

There are clauses in the ROPA that would bring them in guilty of violating the electoral laws of Guyana, and for that there will be penalties imposed.

An election is a sacred institution, because it is an expression of the will of the people, who are the supreme decision-makers in any jurisdiction. It represents the will of the people in regard to who governs them. This is not something that is to

be taken lightly. In fact, it is held sacrosanct to any civilised jurisdiction.

When I say sacrosanct, I am making reference to the fact that the process should never be tampered with.

And for this cause, the full brunt of the law would be meted out.

An election is not conducted to shore up the whims and fancies of a party or group of persons. No election can be considered valid if persons on their own volition decide to, as it were, “run their own show”. This is not the purpose of an election.

To bring a soft landing to those of the accused, my advice to them would be to fall on the mercies of the court, and publicly confess as to

the real behind-the-scene actors in this whole affair.

Questions will be asked, such as who and for what purpose was the fraud of March 2nd 2020 concocted?

Who were the intellectual authors behind this grand scheme? Under whose instructions were they working? There is no concealment now, because the record would show the massive fraud committed; it is all there in The SOPs. So, trying to fight against the law would not do them any good.

We have a right to know, and we will know, about all of these and other matters when this trial gets underway.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

What’s the excuse now?

Dear Editor, Now that the West Indies Team is out of the World Cup, the naysayers have simply been proven right.

It will be interesting to hear what the Chairman of Selectors, Roger Harper, has to say about this recent debacle.

It all started with poor selection in the first place; the omission, retention and recall of players who, in no right-thinking country, could have been in that squad.

Pakistan immediately comes to mind. With the installation of Ramiz Raja as Chairman of the Pakistan

Cricket Board (PTCCB), by no other that Prime Minister and former captain Imran Khan, he immediately set out to change the team selected.

The results by Pakistan thus far need no mention, dismantling the POWERHOUSE India and winning every other game so far is simply remarkable.

I remember seeing Ramiz Raja in 1988 at Bourda being bowled by Curtly Ambrose with his ninth delivery in Test cricket.

He is a feisty administrator, player and commentator; good signs for Pakistan cricket.

In contrast, Roger refused to correct the mistakes of the selectors after the likes of Romario Shepherd, who proved his all-round ability, and Sherfane Rutherford, who was more than consistent and deserved selection, were omitted; and there was the obvious blunder of recalling Ravi Rampaul and an out-of-sync Oshane Thomas, which was criminal.

Roger said then that regardless of the criticisms, the team wouldn’t be changed.

I am making a personal appeal to President Skerritt and VP Shallow to dismantle this Selection Panel if it

refuses to do the honourable thing and resign.

On this same note, I say bon voyage to Christopher Henry Gayle. You have done us proud, hope to see you knighted sooner rather than later. And best of luck to DJ Bravo, a true stalwart of the game.

We need new vision, new direction, and a comprehensive revamp of this team as we move forward. Come on Roger, your slip is showing, resign and save this region further embarrassment.

Regards, Ronald Shepherd

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021

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News

Close to 100 EBE residents get land titles after over 20-year wait

Attorney General Anil Nandlall and Housing Minister Collin Croal as they interact with the Zeelugt residents

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s Government continues its mission to clear the backlog in the housing sector where persons are either waiting to be awarded their house lots or provided with their land titles, almost 100 people were on Friday presented with their titles in the community of Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo (Region Three).

In his address to members of some 87 households who received their titles, Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC, informed the residents that his office was specially mandated by President Dr Irfaan Ali to fix anomalies in the system that prevent persons from receiving their titles.

According to Nandlall, who described Guyana’s housing programme as perhaps the best in the Caribbean, this includes working with other Government agencies to address technical deficiencies.

The Attorney General was accompanied by Housing Minister Collin Croal and other officials from the Housing Ministry as well as the AG Chambers.

Nandlall reminded that a similar process was recently concluded, which saw Certificates of Title being granted to over 50 families at Non Pariel, East Coast Demerara. Similar processes are currently ongoing at Number 46 Village, Corentyne, Cotton Tree and Number Three village, West Coast Berbice. Nandlall promised the residents that the process will be completed within three months.

“It embraces several components, including allocation of house lots, allocation of houses, partnerships with the Private Sector in the establishment of housing schemes, regularisation of squatter settlements, as well as addressing anomalous situations where for some technical reason per-

sons have not received titles for lands they have been occupying for protracted periods. The current exercise falls into the latter category,” he said.

The meeting ultimately set out to commence a process that will eventually result in the grant of Certificate of Titles to the households in that community. The persons who collected their titles were either employees of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) or their descendants who had been allotted house lots as far back as 1997.

Unfortunately, titles for these lands were never granted to the allottees, although the block title was passed from GuySuCo to the Sugar Welfare Fund (SILWIF). An occupational survey plan has already

been completed and the processing of the titles to individual allottees will now begin.

Croal meanwhile used the occasion to update the residents on the activities of his Ministry in Region Three, specifically in the drilling of a new well at Parika which will improve water supply on the East Bank of Essequibo, including Zeelugt. The Minister also addressed a number of other issues raised by the residents in relation to the Housing and Water sectors.

Also in attendance were Parliamentary Secretary Vikash Ramkissoon, Region

Three Regional Chairman Inshan Ayube and the Neighbourhood Democratic Council Chairman of the locality.

Last month, Nandlall was also present when residents of Non Pariel New Area, East Coast Demerara (ECD), received long awaited titles for lands that in some cases were first occupied by their forebears, former workers of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo). In fact, the distribution ended a more than 20-year wait.

The handover of the titles took place in the heart of the communi-

ty. Nandlall was accompanied by Minister within the Housing Ministry Susan Rodrigues, during the distribution of the titles to the 45 recipients.

In his address to the residents, Nandlall urged them to secure their titles in light of its importance.

He pointed to the high incidence of property fraud in Guyana, as well as the shenanigans of the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government and advised them to get five copies or more of their original titles. (G3)

6 FEATURE

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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ith COVID-19 confining us to our homes, we've had the opportunity to pick up new hobbies and interests. Some of us chose to simply look up - and found an entire zoo! Today we want to talk about this brilliant menagerie in the sky, and the celestial proof of the importance of animals in history, culture, art, astronomy, and practically every aspect of our lives.

Humanity's desire to discover, create, and assign meaning to the universe has always existed. The Northern Hemisphere has, over the centuries, been teeming with philosophers, explorers, mathematicians and astronomers who have sought to create life and culture as we know it.

A constellation is a group of stars that form a pattern that can be recognised, and is usually named after its shape or a mythological figure. While different cultures throughout the centuries and the world each have their own star stories, there are 88 constellations officially recognised today by the International Astronomical Union (IAU).

Of the 88 constellations, 42 are in the shape of animals. Today we want to tell you about some of our favourite ones.

The Big & Little Bear

The astronomer Ptolemy identified 48 of the official constellations all the way back in

The zoo in the stars & a lesson from the sky the second century. Let that sink in for a moment. We are living in the 21st century, and in the 2nd century, animals

emerged from star patterns to astronomers. The skies were of the utmost importance centuries ago.

Cultures throughout the world have used the stars to navigate, both physically and in their lives. The most important star in a navigational sense is Polaris, also known as the North Star. Sailors use the North Star to navigate their ships across the seas.

In Guyana today, learning to find the North Star without technology is an element in land surveying. The North Star can be found in the tail of the constellation ‘Ursa Minor’, which is Latin for 'small bear', and forms a very recognisable shape. The ‘Ursa Major’ (big she-bear) constellation

contains the Big Dipper, another hugely important collection of stars in navigation. It is the third largest constella-

tion in the sky.

Many cultures have independently identified this constellation as a bear with an exceptionally large tail, and while stories about the bear vary, the thread remains surprisingly the same.

The Dogs

Without bringing GPL into this, the darker it is where you are, the m o r e likely y o u a r e to see c o m plete constel-

lations. In the 'winter/spring’ months, even in the mostwell-lit areas, you're likely to see Sirius, the brightest star in the night sky. Sirius is part of the ‘Canis Major’ constellation, and is known as the 'dog star'. The Canis Major (the 'bigger dog' in Latin) constellation itself is meant to represent a dog, one of the hunter Orion's two hunting companions in the night sky, the other being ‘Canis Minor’ (the 'smaller dog' in Latin).

There are many stories as to how the Orion constellation ended up in the sky. The most popular one, however, is that while Orion was a great hunter, he was very pompous. One night, he bragged that he was the greatest hunter on earth, and to prove it, he would wipe out all life.

This angered Gaia, Mother Earth. It was decided that he needed some humbling, and she thought it would be ironic if he were to die by one of the smallest creatures on earth the scorpion. Orion and the Scorpius constellation are never visible in the sky at the same time, and it is said that they continue to chase each other through the heave n s for

eternity.

To soften the blow of his defeat, the Gods allowed Orion's two dogs to join him in the sky. His canine companions were fated to follow Orion through the skies.

There you have it laid out every night - celestial proof of canine loyalty.

Back to earth for a second: Apart from the symbolic loyalty, Sirius has always been a boon to the survival of many cultures. For example, when the dog star Sirius appeared, ancient Romans knew that the h o t test days o f the y e a r were imminent - which led to the coining of the phrase ' d o g days o f

summer'. Ancient Egyptians knew that the appearance of the star meant that the Nile was about to flood.

Doctor's Note: Paws for a Cause - Guyana ("Paws") is a local animal welfare group operating and registered in Guyana as a non-profit inc.

The group works to prevent animal cruelty; to promote humane, ethical, and responsible pet ownership; to advocate for controlling the animal population via spay and neuter campaigns; to educate the public; and to assist in cases of reported animal neglect and abuse. The group's work extends beyond dogs and cats, and includes all wildlife in Guyana. Occasionally, the group would contribute a "Paws Perspective" to the Sunday Times’ “Pet Care” column, detailing its experiences in animal welfare.

TO BE CONTINUED IN MONDAY NOVEMBER 8, 2021 EDITION

NEWS

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

8…death more COVID-19 deaths, 86 new cases toll now 941 GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD NOVEMBER 6, 2021 UPDATE

T

wo persons in their 20s are among eight new COVID-19 deaths that were recorded over the past few days. This now takes the total number of deaths from the pandemic in Guyana to 941.

These latest fatalities are a 28-year-old male from Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), who died on Saturday; a 29-yearold female from Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), who died on Friday; a 46-yearold male from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), who died on Saturday; a 51-year-old female also from Region Six, who died on Thursday; a 58-yearold female from Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), who died on Thursday; a 63-year-old female also from Region Five, who died on Friday; a 67-yearold male from Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) who died on Wednesday; and a 90-yearold male from Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), who also died on Thursday.

With the exception of the 29-year-old woman, who had been fully vaccinated, the other seven persons were all unvaccinated.

According to the Ministry of Health, these patients were admitted with COVID-19-like symptoms, and died while receiving care at medical institutions across the country.

Samples were taken at the time of their admission, which subsequently returned positive tests.

Meanwhile, some 86 more persons have been tested positive for the novel coronavirus in a 24-hour period. The total number of confirmed cases in the country is now 36,079.

Of this, however, only 2,546 are currently active cases.

This include 10 patients in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and the remaining 2,536 persons in isolation; that is, 64 in institutional isolation and the other 2,472 in home isolation.

There are also 11 more persons in institutional quarantine.

So far, some 32,592 persons have recovered from the life-threatening virus – 51 more recoveries than the figure reported the previous day.

Moreover, 361,782 persons have been tested for the novel coronavirus thus far, and of these, 17,049 males and 19,030 females were found to be positive.

Of the 86 new cases detected on Saturday, one was from Region One (BarimaWaini), three were from Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), six were from Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), a whopping

37 were from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), 13 were from Region Five (MahaicaBerbice), 12 were from Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), there were two cases each from Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) and Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), and the remaining 10 cases were from Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice).

There was no new case recorded in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) on Saturday.

The Guyana Government launched its COVID-19 vaccination exercise back in February, and continues to roll it out across the various regions in order to achieve herd immunity and reduce the number of COVID-19 infections.

So far, over 380,000 persons of the adult population have received their first dose of the vaccine, and more than 242,000 persons who are 18 years and older are fully immunised.

As it relates to adolescents, over 27,000 children between the ages of 12 and 17 have been administered first doses, of which more than 18,000 are fully vaccinated.

Persons are encouraged to get immunized, since the COVID-19 vaccine provides a layer of protection against severe symptoms of COVID-19.

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

86

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION

64

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

2472 10

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

11

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

19,030

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

17,049

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

36,079

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

32,592

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED

384,934

FULLY IMMUNISED

249,557

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

941

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020 REGION 1

1627

REGION 2

1459

REGION 3

4901

REGION 4

17,094

REGION 5

1325

REGION 6

2713

REGION 7

1760

REGION 8

602

REGION 9

2453

REGION 10

2135

HERE IS HOW YOU CAN BE SAFE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC Wear a face mask.

Keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet.

Wash your hands or use handsanitizer If you have any symptoms, call the COVID-19 Hotline.

GET MEDICAL ADVICE ON COVID-19 FROM MOH 24/7 HOTLINE NUMBERS: 2311166; 226 7480; 624 6674; 624 2819; 624 3067 OR 180/181.

Nevertheless, as more people continue to get vaccinated, authorities are urging the public to continue observing all COVID-19 preventative measures, particularly masking in public, social distancing, and frequent hand washing and sanitising.

The measures also include

vaccination requirements to access any public building, such as a restaurant, a place of worship, a school, or a Government building.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), as at Saturday, November 6, some 248,467,363 confirmed cases were reported globally,

along with 5,027,183 deaths.

The WHO also reported on Sunday that, in the Region of the Americas - that is, Latin America and the Caribbean - the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has increased to 94,077,975, while the death toll in the region has gone up to 2,301,996. (G8)

8 NEWS

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Big scores…

I

…at CSEC and CAPE t’s that time of the year again. We got our initial national “rush” when the NGSA marks came out, and now we move up the rankings into CSEC and CAPE. We haven’t gotten to the point of celebrating the rankings from the University of Guyana graduations - but that’s another story, isn’t it!?

It might be more about the university that the students, since one would think it’s the same cohort of students moving up the ladder.

Do most folks know that the majority of lecturers at UG just have a BA or BSc degree? How are they going to inspire their wards to “look beyond the horizon” when THEIR horizons are restricted by their meagre training?

If you haven’t been on a hill, much less a mountaintop, what’s there to see and pass on?

Anyhow, back to the CSEC and CAPE grade. If you look at the pics and headlines in the press, you’d think that there’s only one school doing well in Guyana – Queen’s.

And that’s a shame, because, from one perspective, since Queen’s gets the cream of the crop from the NGSA and the cream of the funding from the Ministry of Ed, the students are EXPECTED TO DO WELL!! It’s those that don’t that then feel a sense of shame.

But when your Eyewitness read the reports, he realised that it wasn’t all about Queen’s!! For example, in the top 10 at CSEC, SVN, the private Hindu school on West Coast Demerara that’s consistently been doing well, copped FIVE OF THE TOP TEN PLACES'! Now, that’s exceptional by ANY measure, but when that measure incorporates the fact that kids in these outlying areas don’t attract the NGSA high-flyers who “gain” Queen’s and the other “elite” Georgetown schools, than their performance is absolutely mind-boggling!! And Abrams Zuil from Essequibo was in that top ten also.

And when one expands the gaze to the top 20, Anna Regina from Essequibo had five; and from the top 100, there were students across Guyana! It’s high time we focus on this good news. In CAPE, it was the same story: Queen’s dominating the headlines and SVN getting lost in the shuffle. If nothing else, we should be stressing the success of these “outside” schools, since they make the Minister’s drive to bring them up to par with Queen’s more feasible!

And this brings your Eyewitness to those mindboggling numbers of subjects the top students passed.

Once again, 23 subjects with NINETEEN GRADE ONES??

If these numbers of subjects weren’t written in hope of securing a scholarship, that’s amazing!!

Not to rain on their parade, but this sadly reflects our focus on rote learning, when the rest of the world has moved on to critical thinking!

…lacking from WI Your Eyewitness’s loyal readers would know he’s a “cricket tragic” - so his moods rise and fall with the fortunes of the WI cricket teams. So, you’d also now know that he hasn’t been doing too well lately! Here we were -the World Cup champs, and we performed like CHUMPS, to be knocked out even before our last game!

And why? Our selectors refused to read the writing on the wall - and from the mouth of Curtly Ambrose - that our seniors were too much “senior” - too long in the tooth!

Now this isn’t just with the benefit of hindsight. The T20 World Cup didn’t just creep up on us: we had three years - one extra because of COVID - to get ready. What was our cricket administration doing? Look at Sri Lanka - they culled their seniors and went on a rebuilding programme. Why didn’t we? However, your Eyewitness was somewhat mollified when Hetmyer came through and showed some true grit!

There’s hope!

…in ganja From the number of arrests for trafficking in ganja and that’s just the tip of the iceberg, we can be sure - it’s clear that we’re becoming a major producer.

Which sadly makes it more difficult to legalise hemp.

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

NEWS

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Jamaican couple fined $2.8M for trafficking Guyanese teen

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he couple charged with trafficking in persons when a nightclub they owned and operated was raided by Police in 2010 was this week sentenced after striking a plea deal.

The then Organised Crime Investigation Division (OCID) of the Jamaica Constabulary Force had charged Hermalinda Parker, her daughter Liz Scantibury, and husband Anthony Parker following that operation.

Government prosecutors reported that in May 2010, Parker visited Guyana and convinced the family of a 16-year-old girl to allow her to take a trip to Jamaica.

However, on arrival the teenager was forced to become

a dancer at Latin Movement Nightclub which Hermalinda Parker operated. The prosecutors had said, too, that the Guyanese teenager was also forced into prostitution.

The Crown said the teenager was told that she had to dance at the club and have sex with patrons in order to repay expenses incurred by Hermalinda Parker in bringing her to Jamaica.

Members of the OCID raided the club in September 2010 and arrested the dancers, including the teenager. Several of the women detained were from Panama and the Dominican Republic.

Following a trial in which Parker’s daughter was freed of the charges against her

and several charges dropped against Parker and her husband, a retrial was ordered for the couple as the jury was hung in respect of a particular count on the indictment charging them with trafficking in persons.

In the retrial, which commenced on October 7 this year, the prosecution — led

by Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Adley Duncan — called several witnesses. The proceeding, however, paused as the prosecution and defence entered into plea negotiations and came to a formal agreement.

“The plea agreement entered into between the prosecution and the defence in the matter was accepted by

the Judge and it, having been accepted by the Judge, they were sentenced in accordance with the terms of the agreement,” Duncan told the Observer following the matter.

Based on that agreement, the female accused — who was alleged to have been the main player in the trafficking operation — was ordered to pay a fine of $2 million or face six months in prison for failure to pay the fine forthwith.

She was further sentenced to prison for three years on a three-year suspended sentence. Her spouse was, in the meantime, sentenced to a fine of $800,000.

The couple, who had been out on bail, were remanded

after the verdict in the first trial but were subsequently released.

Members of the House of Representatives just this Wednesday passed the Trafficking in Persons (Prevention, Suppression and Punishment) (Amendment) Act 2021, creating tougher penalties for offenders.

The decision was made to amend the monetary penalties to remove the option of fines in lieu of custodial sentences as a penalty for certain offences that are egregious in nature and increase the monetary penalties under Section 15 of the Act. The amendment also makes a consequential amendment to Section 10 of

the Child Care and Protection Act to remove the option of fine in lieu of custodial sentence.

Minister of National Security, Dr Horace Chang in closing the debate on the Bill, said that the Government is creating a legal framework that punishes human trafficking, while deterring individuals from getting involved in the criminal activity.

He said that trafficking in persons is a heinous activity, which provides significant funding to the criminal underworld.

Ashtelle Steele, Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions, was also part of the prosecution team.

(Jamaica Observer)

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NEWS

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Deliberative Democracy vs demagoguery

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ome of my erstwhile friends from the WPA seem to be pushing for street action along the lines of Hoyte’s “slow fyaah; mo’ fyaah”, as they purportedly mobilise for “justice” in Guyana for their constituency.

That all groups – in our case, ethnic groups - might be seeking justice does not seem to be taken into consideration.

Ravi Dev Even though this might help make the outcome “variable sum”, rather than “zero sum”.

The neglected consideration would be the consequences of the vehicle in this push for “justice”. Is violence the only recourse, when democratic politics in our new nation of minorities can deliver office to either of the two major ethnic-based parties? Have not the PNC and PPP alternated office through democratic politics in the last decade?

When the political philosopher John Rawls declared: “Justice is the first virtue of social institutions as truth is of easy systems of thought”, it was because justice goes to the ends of political action.

But what about the need for “truth” in the system of thought that is deployed to struggle for justice in social institutions? Aren’t ends merely consummated means?

Today, liberalism’s democratic choice, that even the social democrats accepted, appears to have been abandoned by the WPA as it acts as a flank group to push the PNC into a more confrontational stance.

This is unfortunate, since liberalism’s stance on “truth and reason” in the variant dubbed “deliberative liberalism” offers us a practical approach towards a democratic process that can deliver “justice” in our social institutions.

As in science, deliberative liberalism holds that truth is to be found through reason, but the “truth” unearthed is never held as if it is the “TRUTH”. It is always held provisionally, with the acceptance that the “truth” may be overturned based on some new evidence, possibly produced by our interlocutors. The outcomes of deliberative liberalism are ineluctably indeterminate, and are based on empirical practice that demand respect for both truth and the other side. We cannot enter a discourse that “what I have is mine, and what is yours is negotiable”.

Liberal democracy rests on deliberation utilising “reason” as the yardstick for evaluating differing perspectives. But reason cannot be tethered to lies, BS, and fake news that create and transform every rumour into “facts” to stir up dissention and hate.

This is nothing more than cheap demagoguery, which vitiates any hope of us recognising our common political identity as citizens of Guyana, with equal rights, responsibilities and dignity.

Only public reasons grounded in truth should be proffered in such deliberations. That is to say, assertions rising solely on faith or dogma and not reason would not be accepted as “public reasons”. We simply cannot baldly assert that, say, the PPP is committing genocide against African Guyanese by insisting on vaccination against COVID 19, without offering concrete evidence to demonstrate the truth of that assertion. In cases where such assertions stem from beliefs that are in deep, fundamental conflict with similarly held beliefs of others, we would have to agree to disagree on such nettlesome issues, and not exploit them in the public space to arouse fears.

In sum, we would have to be committed to democracy to achieve ends to which we are all committed. I have proposed “liberty” and “equity” as values that we can all agree on in light of our common history of slavery and indentureship. However, it is possible that some groups may have differing views – for instance, as to whether equity should ipso facto also deliver equality. For me, for instance, I have always held that equity should deliver “equality of effective opportunity”, and as to whether that delivers “equality of results” depends on personal effort.

We will have to deliberate with each other how such values would be operationalised. The bottom line is whether citizens would be committed to such a process of deliberation. I believe so.

The problem lies with their leaders. We would have to be practical and ensure that all near-term measures have incentives for the politicians.

We would have to be prepared to deliberate with each other in every available forum – and then some. Newspapers’ letters pages, community meetings, town hall meetings, call-in Facebook shows, etc. But we have to respect each other as citizens. I have warned time and again about the sterility of polemics.

When has it ever convinced someone from the “other side”?

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FEATURE

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Region 2 top CSEC students share a deep love for science

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

By Raywattie Deonarine

T

he Abram Zuil Secondary School (AZSS), located at Abram Zuil on the Essequibo Coast in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam),

continues to shine at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations, as the school’s own Anuradha Basdeo scored the top position in the region, achieving 19 passes, while Devanjali

Ashley Ramkellawan secured passes in 18 subjects.

Additionally, the Anna Regina Multilateral Secondary School, located in the township of Anna Regina on the Essequibo Coast, has also been out-

standing at the CSEC examination, with student Kelly Sankar excelling in 20 subjects, thus gaining the second position in the region.

Also, the top ten students in the Region are all from the Anna Regina Multilateral

Secondary School. They are Angelita Chattergoon, who recorded 19 passes; Parmesh Ramgobin and Aliyah Opheira Doodnauth, who both recorded 20 passes; and Thyecia Moore, who also registered 20 pass-

es. Yovendra Singh secured 18 passes, while Vishnu Surendra secured 17 passes. Yogendra Rampersaud copped passes in 16 subjects.

TURN TO PAGE 19

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Tapakuma: A budding tourist destination in a quaint Indigenous village By: Jemima Holmes

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hese are the things that movies are made of: a rustic trail, being a mixture of loam, sand and stone, a bumpy ride for any type of vehicle but the scenery pays dividends for your troubles. As the trail winds, dips and ascends, a lush green canopy creates a barrier between explorer and the piercing sun. But the sun refuses to be left out of this picturesque scenery, as its rays forces its way between the tall looming trees that en-

close forest.

This trail is one that you’ll never forget. As several exotic animals peek out from their wooded abodes to catch a glimpse of those who return their stares in awe. Just when the vast red loam smoothens the trail, it comes to a stop, for a demanding creek which is adamant about adding to all the wonders previously witnessed on this trail. A kissing bridge, as Guyanese would casually call it, allows Guyana’s signature “black waters” to carry on flowingly, as it opens up into the person-

ification of “the simple life”.

This trail is the epitome of eco-tourism, the perfect sightseeing package and the history that unfolds at the village’s gate is what will keep potential tourists enthralled and thirsty for more. This trail belongs to St Deny’s Tapakuma Village; and the people are willing to share this treasure with all those who are willing to take the trip.

Casually referred to as “Tapakuma”, the now thriving Indigenous village was, over a century ago, just a settlement formed by several

The majestic Tapakuma Lake

families. As told by the village’s Toshao, these settlers travelled from two other villages in the Pomeroon.

“The history Tapakuma

started over a hundred years ago, our fore parents actually came from the other Wakapao and Akawini from the Pomeroon and they

came up the Tapakuma creek to live,” Aubrey Fredericks, Toshao of Tapakuma said.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

FEATURE

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Tapakuma: A budding tourist destination...

Tourism Minister Oneidge Walrond chatting with Tapakuma Toshao Aubrey Fredericks in the presence of GTA acting Director Kamrul Baksh

H

owever, this village which sits in a forested enclosure some 14 miles from Anna Regina on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two, has not been untouched by the European influence.

Fredericks related, “At the bridge where we visited the first site, there was a Police station

day, Tapakuma would be able to benefit from that lake.”

The lake he spoke of is the majestic Tapakuma Lake which is owned by the village through the Amerindian Reservation (Land) Title, which is widely regarded as one of the largest in the Essequibo region. Located just a mile and a half from the

The trail leading to Tapakuma village

there and our fore parents said that the Dutch had built that outpost and there were Dutch bottles there and that stuff.”

“So, that’s how it started in Tapakuma and time went on.”

In Tapakuma, worries are easily washed away, as one becomes captivated by what the small village has to offer. The clear sounds of chirping birds, cooing animals and rustling trees bring one as close to raw nature as they can get; but Tapakuma is looking to be much more than a peaceful hideout, hoping to venture into the tourism sector.

Accessible by road, through a trail from Anna Regina, boat from the Pomeroon or the backlands of Charity and Supenaam, the villagers at Tapakuma believe that there is much more that they can offer Guyana and the wider world.

Currently, Tapakuma thrives on subsistence farming, fishing, hunting and the resources of their forest to get by, but this is no fairy tale, since these resources are no longer enough to sustain the community of just under 500 residents.

Toshao Fredericks shared with the Sunday Times, “But of lately our wood species are being diminished very quickly and we don’t have the marketable species available anymore. So today, we are hoping to get into tourism, to develop that sector in our village, because we need, we need a new source of income, especially for the Village Council to manage our affairs in the village, to pay our expense.”

“We are also pursuing agriculture to develop that area also, but both sectors are posing challenges that we hope to get over them and reach our goal,” he went on to reveal.

“We are hoping that one

village, the infamous Mainstay Lake is pale in comparison to the rich scenery and tranquillity that Tapakuma offers.

Interestingly though, the Tapakuma Lake stretches around its surrounding villages, making its way around to Mainstay; a collaborative effort from Mother Nature herself, the situation of Mainstay on the banks of one of Lake Tapakuma’s most beautiful look out points, pushes for a joint effort between the two communities to have the area developed into what can become a top tier tourist attraction.

“We are willing to have a meeting with the Mainstay Council and pursue the idea and see how we could negotiate and see how both villages could benefit,” a reserved Fredericks stated on the matter.

Quite frankly, the Toshao is willing to do whatever it takes to transform the village he presides over.

Another of Tapakuma’s potential tourist attractions is the remarkable piece of engineering that is the Dawa Pump Station.

Built in 1961, on roughly 7 acres of land in the Tapakuma Lake, the Pump Station provides water for the Essequibo Coast.

Another gem that the village possesses is the Tapakuma Creek, which they have begun to develop. According to Fredericks, the Village Council combined Government grants to commence work on the creek side and establish the Lukanani Deck in 2019, however, this was stalled due to varying circumstances.

Nevertheless, Fredericks and his Village has a clear vision of what the Creek can become.

“We hope at some point in time we could hold activities right here at this area when it is completed. We could do

canoeing, swim competitions, racing, we could do fishing also in the Lake and we could organise different things, getting tourism packages prepared. So, that when visitors come, we have everything ready from the time they enter into our village, we must know what we are going to sell to them.”

While their hopes and dreams are many, there are challenges that can hinder the community from becoming Guyana’s newest tourist destination.

On this topic, the Toshao shared, “Because the road is in a bad condition and that also need to be upgraded so people can visit our area and we could showcase our village.”

“We believe in our village that we have tourism potential, but we’re at a stage where we need much development and would like to seek help from our Government in doing so.”

With the Tourism Ministry and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) finding the destination favourable, Tapakuma may soon receive the assistance it needs to commence its transition into a tourist destination.

“We want to explore the possibility of adding Tapakuma to our list of supported projects. As you know we support Indigenous communities in the development of sustainable tourism,” acting Director of the GTA, Kamrul Baksh said during a visit to the

FROM PAGE 14

aforementioned sites.

He further stated, “That niche market has grown tremendously and the fact that Tapakuma is quite accessible to the city, it opens up the market for domestic tourism. Sports fishing, it’s largely for the international audience, but these new areas that we are exploring here as part of the broader Essequibo circuit, will certainly be able to capitalise on that really trending opportunity”.

For now, Tapakuma remains one of Essequibo’s untouched gems but a formal expression of Interest to the Tourism Ministry, in good time, will open it up to all those who are brave and aweinspired enough to travel that amazing trail.

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FEATURE

Region 2 top CSEC students...

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM FROM PAGE 13

Anuradah Basdeo

Kelly Sankar

Angelita Chatergoon

Parmesh Ramgobin

Aliyah Doodnauth

Vishnu Surendra

Sixteen-year-old Anuradha Basdeo, who hails from the vibrant community of Pomona Housing Scheme, obtained 17-grade ones and 2 grade twos, securing the first position in Region Two, and creating history as she secured the fifth-highest number of subjects written by a candidate at these Caribbean examinations.

Basdeo told Guyana Times she is very elated and satisfied with her performance, since her objective

it.”

months. From then onwards, I was faced with numerous struggles,” he said.

Ramgobin told Guyana Times his private extra lessons were costly, and this forced his mother to seek another means of income in order to cover his lesson expense, which included transportation fees.

“Mommy at the time said that my education is important, and because of that, she started to fry chips: plantain, cassava, sweet

times trying to manage everything all at once; but I encourage every student to participate in activities outside of academics.”

Doodnauth said she is elated and overjoyed over her performance because she had

Singh told this publication, “I joined the industrial technology stream where there have been many stereotypes, but that didn’t affect my decision, mainly because the subjects in said area are more related to the career I intend to follow up. I had the intention of writing more than 18 subjects, but when COVID hit, I had to drop a few because of the time, and teachers to teach those subjects were unavailable.”

He added, “My schooling then became highly expensive,

both happy and sad, but I do not regret the hardships, and I wish all the best for the future students in their academics. Study hard, but don’t forget to take care of yourself along the journey.”

Yovendra Singh

was to make herself and parents proud. She related that her parents are overjoyed and satisfied with her performance as well.

Basdeo’s mother said her daughter was always a good performer, since from nursery school. Basdeo also mentioned that she wants to study medicine, because she has a deep love for science subjects.

Excited, overwhelmed

Seventeen-year-old Kelly Sanka, a proud ambassador of the Anna Regina Multilateral School, obtained 20 subjects, achieving 16 grade ones and 4 grade twos.

He came in second position in the region, and has made the region proud as well. Sankar hails from Airy Hall village on the Essequibo Coast.

In an elated tone, the second top performer expressed, “I’m excited! Overjoyed over my performance, although I was nervous and never expected such grades. I am a worshiper at the altar of science, and medicine is what I long to pursue.”

Angelita Chatergoon of Devonshire Castle, who also attended the Anna Regina Multilateral Secondary School, made her parents, villagers and school proud. She achieved 19 subjects with the achievement of 15 grade ones and 4 grade twos. Chatergoon aspires to be a professional Economist, since she has developed a strong love for economics and business-related areas.

In an interview with the media, Chatergoon said she was shocked and so grateful to God. “Since I know myself, I have always excelled in my studies, copping top positions in each class. I always took my studies seriously, and it paid off in the end. Besides my love for studying, drawing is one of the many things which I truly enjoy doing. I spend hours drawing, never getting bored, because I love

Chatergoon added, “When I heard my results, I was totally overwhelmed with tears of gladness, and I’m thrilled that I made it…It’s indeed a wonderful feeling. My parents are as proud

Devangili Ramkellawan

Tyhecia Moore

as I am, because even though they didn’t have to write the exam, they were with me every step of this journey. They gave me all that they could give, and rallied around me and made sure I had all that I needed. My family members were my biggest supporters.”

never expected that she would have achieved fourteen grade one at one sitting of the examination.

Tough journey

Parmesh Ramgobin, also from the Anna Regina Multilateral, secured 15 grade ones and 5 grade twos. Hailing from the community of Charity, Ramgobin aims to further his studies in order to achieve an associate degree in natural science. Additionally, he wishes to become a cardiothoracic surgeon.

“I must say that it was a tough journey, and the struggles were real. My journey to school was not a smooth ride; from where I live to where I needed to be in order to catch the bus, it was tough walking to get there, especially when the rain pours down and makes it almost impossible to access the road,” Ramgobin told this publication.

He added, “During my studies, I was surrounded by many beautiful souls, who encouraged me to push a little harder; and that was exactly what I did. I began taking many extra lessons, some that were dismissed until 6 in the evening, and getting transportation to head halfway across the Essequibo coast was not easy. I would reach at home until 7 in the evenings…it was at that moment I realised that hard work really does pay off.”

Ramgobin also said that he saw his potential, and after being encouraged by his lesson teacher and parents, he decided to write 20 subjects at the CXC exams.

“These subjects required a lot of effort and hard work, and I was ready for that, but what I didn’t anticipate was COVID-19; no one anticipated that. COVID-19 was one of my biggest struggles.

Being a Garde 10 student, it was imperative that I attend school, as most of the curriculum is done at that level. However, the virus deterred me from that, and there was nothing I could’ve done, as we were kept at home for almost 8

Yogendra Rampersaud

potato, and chicken foot, and sold them to nearby shops…even at my lessons, I would take her chips to sell, just for me to receive money to pay my lesson fees,” the young man stated.

Achievement not only my own

Seventeen-year-old Aliyah Opheira Doodnauth, aspiring medical doctor, secured 20 passes,

Young pandit

Speaking with Guyana Times, Vishnu Surendra revealed that he qualified himself as a pandit of the Queenstown community while he was pursuing his secondary education.

“Being a pandit and managing school and my work wasn’t that easy. Obtaining 14 grade ones, two grade twos and one grade three for five months was a challenging project for me, but with the constant cooperation from my

Ambika Singh

but I tried my best to cope with it. I studied really hard and had sleepless nights to complete SBAs and do research to prepare for my exams. It was a challenge, but it paid off. I had always wished to make my dad proud, as he battled with my upbringing as a single parent. My family were very proud of me, they were all excited upon hearing my results. I am very

“Mommy at the time said that my education is important, and because of that, she started to fry chips: plantain, cassava, sweet potato and chicken foot, and sold them to nearby shops… even at my lessons, I would take her chips to sell, just for me to receive money to pay my lesson fees,” - Parmesh Ramgobin achieving 14 grade one, five grade twos, and one grade three.

Speaking with Guyana Times, Doodnauth said, “I am working towards becoming a medical doctor, since it has always been a profession that captivated and intrigued me from since I was a child. My achievement is not only my own, but it belongs to my family, teachers, and friends, who have all played a major role in ensuring my success was possible.”

She added that the struggles she had faced during the examination period were the same as the CSEC students before her, but with the added stress of the pandemic, she found that her biggest setback was attempting to learn all of her school work as well as complete the SBAs within the given time period.

“I am beyond grateful that I was able to persevere and emerge successfully despite these challenges. My parents as well as my other family members and friends were all very proud and happy that I was able to achieve the best I could. Participating in activities outside of academics was one of the best decisions I made, although it may seem stressful at

family, friends, and teachers, I have done it. I just want to shout out to my parents, who were always there in the nights at my lessons to collect me.”

Surendra added that he is pursuing a scholarship to become a dental surgeon because of a deep love for dental care and sciences.

“My mother, when she heard my results that announced live on Facebook Ministry page, she was very shocked. She was like, ‘Wow! 14 grade ones! I never expected that from you son, keep up the hard work’. I was never at the top of my class at secondary school, and…I heard they felt speechless because they never expected me to excel,” Surendra proudly said.

Expensive

Hailing from the beautiful village of Adventure, sixteenyear-old Yovendra Nayaan Singh aspires to move forward by becoming a civil engineer, and an entrepreneur/contractor working side by side with his father and uncles.

The young, hardworking, and determine teen secured passed in 18 subjects, achieving 15 grade ones and three grade twos.

thankful for my achievements, God’s blessings, my family, and all those who contributed to my success.”

COVID challenges

Sixteen-year-old Devanjali Ashley Ramkellawan of Abram Zuil Secondary School secured 18 passes, gaining 13 grade ones and five grade twos.

Hailing from the vibrant village of Abram Zuil, Ramkellawan aspires to be an architect.

“I would like to thank the Almighty God for blessing me with the mindset and determination to keep working hard,” she said.

She added that due to the COVID-19 outbreak, school was cancelled for some time, which made it extremely challenging for her, as it was hard to receive the necessary teaching required, and also for the completion of her SBAs. Despite these difficulties, Ramkellawan and her schoolmates persevered and worked hard.

She said, “My secondary school years were years I wish to never forget. They were the years I learned a lot, not only about the curriculum, but about people and life. I gained great memories,

Education a powerful weapon

However, aspiring engineer Yogendra Rampersaud of Affiance scored 16 passes, gaining 13 ones and three twos.

During an interview with this publication, Rampersaud emphasised, “Education is a powerful weapon that can be used to change the world.” which is a powerful quote by the late Nelson Mandela.

“The journey was not an easy road, since lots of sacrifices, determination, dedication and selfmotivation were required. Despite the many challenges I faced during my secondary education, I tried my best to stay focused by maintaining a schedule of activities, and making time for activities such as early morning spiritual bath, exercising, and doing little household chores.

The majority of my time was allocated to my studies.

“Further, my mom was always there with me every night, to see that I do what I was supposed to do. She really performed her duties as a mother to the highest extent.

For this I am extremely thankful,” Rampersaud said.

He added that his mother proved that parents are indeed earthly Gods. He also expressed gratitude to the Goddess Saraswati for blessing him with knowledge and understanding.

Seventeen-year-old Tyhecia Keziah Moore, an aspiring surgeon or forensic scientist because of her deep love for science, secured passes in 20 subjects, gaining 15 grade ones and five grade twos.

“During the period of preparation for CSEC exams, it was a very challenging road, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic at hand. Because of this, I missed school for almost 9 months. Therefore, when school re-opened, it was a race against time and content to cover. With this challenge among many others, it called for extreme focus and hard work. I was determined to excel in this endeavour, and ensured I attended all classes and studied a lot. Even when studying went on to late hours at night and the wee hours of the morning, I persevered with the goal of doing exceptionally well at CSEC 2021,” Moore highlighted.

Moore added, “Amidst the studying, of course there were struggles, and I am grateful to my family, who stood by my side through it all. Especially my parents, who stayed up with me while I studied, to ensure I wasn’t lonely, or just in case I needed assistance.

“I must also thank all my teachers, who worked just as hard as I did to ensure great results.

Most of all, I must thank the Lord Almighty, who guided me through the entire journey and never left my side. With Him only, all things are possible. I opened the results later than most, since I was waiting to open it with my entire family.”

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Grounded by faith, Lindener Niomi Alsopp has been admitted to the bar

By Utamu Belle

L

indener Niomi Alsopp knew from a tender age that she wanted to pursue a career in law, but it was her grounded faith and perseverance, with the assistance of loved ones, which saw her overcoming hurdles to achieve this goal.

It was a proud moment for family and friends when Alsopp was officially admitted to the Bar before Justice Simone Morris- Ramlall on Friday. The 24-year-old, who grew up in the communities of Half Mile and One Mile, Wismar, recently shared her journey to success with this publication.

The lawyer’s academic path began at the Half Mile Nursery School. She then went on to attend the Wismar Hill Primary School.

In 2009, Alsopp wrote the then Common Entrance Examinations and was awarded a place at the St Roses High School. Her excellent performance at the examinations also saw her

receiving prizes for Best Graduating Student at the Wismar Hill Primary School.

“Instead of taking up my place at the St. Roses High School, my parents decided that it was best that I attend the Mackenzie High School. I began my secondary education at the Mackenzie High School in 2009.” Alsopp related.

As a student, she participated in several extra-curricular activities, representing the educational institution and Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) in athletics, cycling, dramatic poetry and calypso.

“I also participated in debating, impromptu speaking, and football competitions.

Despite my commitment to extracurricular activities, I was still able to maintain good grades”, Alsopp recalled.

In 2014, the budding lawyer sat the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate examinations (CSEC), excelling with eight grade ones, five grade twos

and a grade three. Again, her outstanding performance saw her being awarded prizes for top CSEC performer for both the Mackenzie High School and Region 10.

Alsopp later went on to write the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE), where she copped passes in nine units. She was now even more equipped to embark on her childhood passion of becoming a lawyer.

“It was at this stage that I knew that law was my calling. I realised that I enjoyed learning the law and being able to apply it to various situations. There was something intriguing about it, and I was excited to learn more,” Alsopp told this publication.

She admits that her journey after deciding to pursue law was very challenging, yet amazing. “There were a lot of challenges that I experienced along the way, some of which caused me to even question whether I was on the right path. However, I am grateful that I was able to overcome

New lawyer Niomi Alsopp

those challenges and still enjoy the journey,” Alsopp noted, as she related that she has met a lot of amazing people along the way.

The issue of self-doubt and the challenge of maintaining a balance between her school work and ordinary life were among some of the challenges Alsopp said she faced.

Through it all, she maintained good faith with the help of her loved ones.

“I was able to overcome many of the challenges with the help of God, family and friends. I had a great support system. God placed people in my life at every juncture to give me the assistance that I needed. To overcome the issue of self-doubt, I found the

confidence and assurance that I needed in the Bible. I also had a lot of people who encouraged me and prayed for me,” Alsopp reminisced.

She recalled some of the special moments in her journey that were spent with close friends.

“The University of Guyana Law Week and Hugh Wooding Law School Sports were special moments in my journey. However, those moments when I performed exceptionally in my assignments and exams were also special,” Alsopp recalled.

She further told this publication that her parents were two of her biggest motivators, noting that throughout her journey, she also received great support from her ‘Church family’ and other family and friends.

“The journey to obtaining my LEC (Legal Education Certificate) was a difficult one. Throughout the journey, however, I was able to see God move mightily in my life. There were a lot of low moments, but there were also a lot of high moments.

I performed very well in my exams, As and Bs only”, a proud Alsopp noted.

TURN TO PAGE 24

NEWS

21

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

$750M in contracts signed for construction of 100 homes in Region 6 …over 500 jobs to be created

CH&PA head Sherwyn Greaves and a contractor signing one of the contracts on Saturday at the Berbice Chamber of Commerce office, Rose Hall Town, Berbice

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he Housing Ministry is injecting $750,000 million to construct 100 new houses at Williamsburg, Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), which will be ready for occupancy early next year.

Thirteen contractors have been selected to construct the houses and within two weeks they will be given an order to commence working.

The contractors will have three months to complete

the houses. The houses will be flat concrete structures and consist of two bedrooms each. The project, according to Housing Minister Collin Croal, will see a minimum of 500 persons being employed.

“In addition to employment there will be the transportation sector and other providers who will benefit from this. This little investment there is close to $¾ billion being injected because when you take into consideration the houses plus the

infrastructure work we are talking to at least $750 million. This is the model that we will utilise across the country,” Minister Coral told the media during a visit to the project site on Saturday.

The thirteen contractors signed their contracts on Saturday at the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce head office at Rose Hall.

Croal explained that each contractor will have a limited number of houses

to build thus ensuring that the project is completed in a timely manner and more persons are benefitting from Government’s spending as against giving the entire project to one contractor.

The houses are being categorised as low-moderate.

Each house will cost $5.5 million and will be similar to those being constructed in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) for which persons are required to pay $7.5 million.

“You have to take into consideration the locality and the Region. What we are doing at Providence [East Bank Demerara] where those types of houses for the young professionals and they carry a higher price and those houses are also elevated. We also have to take into consideration the local demand and the ability of persons to be able to pay. From our assessment that is why we have more of the moderate houses that will be built here,” Croal explained.

Meanwhile Project Engineer Deron McKennon explained that the houses will have the same size and

Road work in the new housing scheme

durability as those in Region Four but the cost has been cut since they are building the houses flat and are not including inner roofs.

Meanwhile, Croal said, in two weeks’ time electricity and water will be installed in the new scheme after which the contractors commence working. Currently roads are being constructed in the scheme.

“It is the same model that we are using for all of the construction of the houses. The cost for the construction is being done by everybody in the scheme at the same price and so, the ben-

efices will either go through the bank or if they can pay cash. We are initially expending but we are recovering,” Croal added.

In Region Six there are 400 persons on record who have indicated that they prefer completed houses as against just being allocated a house lot. The distribution will be done on a first come first serve basis.

Meanwhile, the Minister said within another week similar contracts will be signed also in region Six for another 100 houses to be constructed at Fort Ordinance. (G4)

22 NEWS

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

More regional, international direct travel routes to Guyana soon – Foreign Ministry

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ith Inter-Caribbean Airways announcing a new direct Guyana to Barbados flight, the Government has made it clear that it will continue to incentivise and support increased interconnectivity when it comes to flights between Guyana, the rest of the region and the world.

On Saturday, the Foreign Affairs Ministry said that the Government is hard at work facilitating increased flight routes that will directly connect Guyana to various destinations.

According to the Ministry, Guyana was among the early signatories to the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Multilateral Air Services Agreement (MASA), which is being provisionally applied while relevant legislation is finalised for tabling.

“Similarly, Guyana has initiated efforts, in collaboration with Caricom partners towards developing a regime for incentivising Private Sector partnership in the establishment of an enhanced

and viable regional maritime transport network. The Government considers that enhanced connectivity will boost opportunities for trade, tourism, people to people and business to business exchange.”

“With this in mind, the Government, guided by principles of transparency and fair competition, is implementing measures to ensure an open and fair regime in the air transport sector for local, regional, and international operators that will expand opportunities and enhance value for the Guyanese people and persons travelling to Guyana,” the Ministry said.

The Ministry also noted that Guyana welcomes both new and longstanding partners in the aviation sector and looks forward to working with all operators to ensure continuously improved services and viable and sustainable operations.

In this regard, the Ministry also said that the Government of Guyana re-

Inter-Caribbean Airways

mains ever mindful of the invaluable service that LIAT has provided to the region, including Guyana, over the years. LIAT, which was previously in the process of being liquidated due to outstanding debts, only restarted flights to limited destinations late last year.

The airline had applied to Guyana earlier this year, seeking permissions to resume local flights. However, permission has not yet been granted since LIAT on its part has outstanding paperwork to submit to the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

The company also still owes

substantial amounts of money to the GCAA. It was only on Friday that the announcement was made that Inter-Caribbean Airways would be offering 12 weekly round trips between Guyana and Barbados starting from December 17.

Speaking during the launch of the route, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill emphasised the importance of the operation being sustainable.

“The sustainability of this project is also very important. We want you to stay in the market. We want you to grow, even if there are competitors,” Edghill had said, also revealing that the Government is in discussions with other airlines in Europe and Asia to service Guyana’s aviation market.

In July 2021, Director General (ag) of the GCAA, Chaitrani Heeralall, had said that seven airlines have signalled their interest in operating here. Those air service providers are FlyAllWays, InterCaribbean Airways, One

Caribbean Limited, Jetair Caribbean, Skybus Airlines, Sky High Aviation Services and Guyana Rotorcraft Services Inc. A number of commercial carriers have already reintroduced flights to and from Guyana since the Government moved to reopen the ports. One such airline is American Airlines, which restarted operations late last year. COPA Airlines started three flights weekly from Panama, and Caribbean Airlines Limited (CAL) also started flying between CJIA and the Lester B Pearson International Airport in Toronto, Canada.

JetBlue also launched its commercial flight between New York and Guyana in December of 2020. In May, InterCaribbean Airways Limited, based in the Turks and Caicos Islands, and FlyAllways received Cabinet approval to operate locally. FlyAllways, which is Suriname owned, was also granted approval to operate in Guyana. (G3)

NEWS

23

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Crushed by metal lift

“Is best God deh tek me and lef me only son” – mother of dead man

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atasha Charran, mother to the 22-year-old man who died after a metal lift fell from a building and pinned him to the ground, said the metal lift she feared for years, is the same lift that killed her only son.

Sudesh Charran, a labourer of West Minister, West Bank Demerara (WBD), met his demise on Thursday at the F&R Supermarket located at Stelling Road, Vreeden-Hoop, West Coast Demerara (WCD).

When <<<Guyana Times>>> visited the family’s home on Saturday, the inconsolable mother could not come to grips with the death of her son, whom she

described as “a very loving person.”

The dead man’s mother told this publication that the lift that killed her son has been a hazard at the business place for years, and no effort was made to get it fixed.

The woman said that she, along with her husband who is now deceased and only son worked at the establishment for some time, and had always feared the lift.

“My daughter call me and tell me something happen to Boy and me ask she what happened, and she said something happen at the work place. Meh shout and me tell she meh know something wrong with meh son, meh know is that lift.

Dead: Sudesh Charran

Me seh the only thing that will kill meh son is that lift; and so, said so is that lift killed my son,” the woman said.

The grieving mother re-

Dilapidated revetment causes flooding in Riverstown

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everal residents of Riverstown on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), are being affected by floods caused by dilapidated revetment in the community.

According to the residents, the poor state of the revetment, which was built to keep the trench water off the land, was further compounded by current high tides. They said that the flooding is a recurring situation that the village experiences.

The residents also complained that the water carries a stench and affects their health.

Most of the residents living near the revetment told this publication that they had to spend the majority of their time bailing water from their homes and putting sandbags at their doorways to reduce the flow of water into their lower flats. They also complained that they had to remove their household appliances and place them at a safer and higher level to prevent damages. According to residents, their rice crops and cattle are also affected by

the floodwater.

When contacted, the Regional Vice Chairman, Humace Oodit, who is in charge of all Drainage & Irrigation (D&I) works along the Essequibo Coast, said that the situation has been foreseen by officials of the region and that efforts are ongoing to assess the problem.

He added too that they are currently seeking emergency funds from to Ministry of Agriculture to rebuild the revetment in the area. The Vice Chairman stressed that the officials would now have to get the work done at a fast rate in order to ease the residents’ plight.

According to the Oodit, for years whenever there is a high tide and heavy rainfall, the water overflows into nearby villages.

“When the water becomes so high, it spills over into the line… I am aware that the water is very salty and affects the crops in the area and that’s why we need to immediately do some work there to make sure that we can prevent the crops from being destroyed,” Oodit said.

lated that it has only been two months since her husband died, adding that her son died on the second day he returned to work after grieving his father’s death.

“This is nothing easy, instead of marrying out my son I have to go and bury my son. I was working there in 2017 and right there we have to pass to carry the garbage out.

There is nowhere else you can pass to carry the garbage out. Every time I go to carry out the garbage, we would have to run because we frighten the lift.”

“I use to say I don’t like how this lift look because it looked very dangerous.

I didn’t even know that today that same lift will kill my son. Is best God deh tek me and lef me only son. I need justice for my son. I really justice for my son”, the woman said.

The woman said she worked very hard to give her children, especially her

Grieving mother, Natasha Charran

son, a better life after she battled an abusive relationship for years without any financial assistance.

Now, as the family was about to reunite and build life together, she lost her son, she added.

“He [Sudesh] told my daughter [his sister] to come and live with he. She only move in with him last week. I told him not to go out to work yet, help your

sister and the you can go back to work... My son was very loving and I need justice for him. Everybody shocked about my son death,” the tearful woman said.

On Thursday last Police said Charran was walking under the metal lift to enter the supermarket when it fell from the upper flat and pinned him to the ground.

As a result, workers rushed to his assistance and used a piece of wood to lift the metal structure from the man’s body. They pulled the victim out, but by this time he was motionless and a large wound was seen to the top of his head.

The Police were summoned, and the body of the victim was escorted to the West Demerara Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

A probe into the man’s death is still ongoing.

(LaWanda McAllister)

24 FEATURE

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Grounded by faith, Lindener...

FROM PAGE 20

With her faith well grounded, Alsopp, who has overcome many hurdles in her pursuit of success, has encouragement for anyone pursuing their goals in life.

“The advice that I would

give to persons who are pursuing Law or their goals in general would be to commit your plans to the Lord, trust in Him, and watch Him bring it to pass. With God, there is no limit to what you

can do. However, success requires perseverance. There will be challenges along the way, but you have to be able to persevere and be resilient,” she advises.

“I would like to publicly thank God for His faithfulness towards me. Without Him, there is no way I would have made it this far. I would also like to thank my mother Shirma February, and my father Carlton Alsopp, for the sacrifices they have made for me. I wish to also thank the leaders and members of the Bethel Gospel Chapel and the Bethel Gospel Hall for their love and support,” Alsopp noted with gratitude.

25

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

26 NEWS

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Despite COVID-19 challenges, SVN students shine at CSEC, CAPE

By Nathifa Punch

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hroughout the years, the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations and its counterpart Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Education (CAPE) examinations were often times seen as a Guyanese teenager’s worst nightmare. Logging into the student portal to know their fate is usually harder than the exams they already wrote. Some might tell you they had already packed their bags to stay with a relative for a while – just in case. That was the only thing a teen was worried about during exam session.

That is, until the COVID-19 pandemic.

The pandemic brought a different kind of fear for CSEC and CAPE students throughout the country’s population that no one else could begin to understand.

Anxiety and depression took on a more riveting role in the lives of many students as they prepared for their exams in a new frame of mind.

The drastic change from face-to-face sessions to screen time was welcomed by some while others struggled to cope with the new setting.

In the face of all of this, the CSEC and CAPE top students of Saraswati Vidya Niketan (SVN) Secondary School took the old saying, “every dark cloud has a silver lining” to a new level when they acquired excellent grades.

Faraz Yassin, Savitri Jesicca Mahadeo, Ronaldo Antonio Khemchan, Karuna Lall, and Roushine Lall wrote the CSEC examinations and did more than just produce excellent grades.

They were awarded places among the top 11 performers for the year 2021.

Crediting the backbone of their success to the unwavering support from their family and teachers, these students took up the mantle and beat the odds of the pandemic.

“It was definitely hard because writing 18 subjects isn’t exactly the easiest thing,” Yassin, who obtained 17 Grade Ones and one Grade Two expressed.

He further indicated that “My teachers definitely helped. Like during our breaks, I would take time to speak to them outside of normal school stuff, like how you cope with the pressure and stuff like that, so they definitely helped me”.

“So having that support system was like the most

Atishta Seenarine (CAPE) - 9 Grade Ones in 9 units

important thing for me. For me it was my parents and my sister especially, so like that was a very important thing and that’s very important because you need to take care of your mental health when you have such a big workload,” the young man pointed out.

Roushine Lall, who obtained 16 Grade Ones and four Grade Twos echoed this sentiment by stating that “I did 20 subjects at CSEC and it was quite a load – I mean from form three to five – and considering the pandemic and everything, it was a challenge.”

She lauded the teachers for taking the time – even during the nights to ensure that they were well equipped and well prepared

Shivnarine Chaitram (CAPE) - 7 Grade Ones, 1 Grade Two and 1 Grade Three

Faraz Yassin - 17 Grade Ones and 1 Grade Two

for the exams.

“I mean, the school helped a lot because they always ensured we had classes even though most schools weren’t having classes when the pandemic came about. We had online classes so that helped a lot. The teachers were always patient and then we had a lot of night sessions, a lot of past papers. Basically, the school ensured that all resources are provided,” Lall highlighted.

“My parents supported me [financially] a lot - because it’s a private school.

My sisters also helped and my teachers of course are very hardworking. They would literally be there to help during the night. We had a lot of night sessions.”

Ronaldo Khemchand, who obtained 16 Grade Ones and three Grade Twos related that the online platform posed as a challenge and took some getting used to.

He praised the school for putting systems in place to make the journey manageable.

“It was very difficult at the beginning of the pandemic to get used to the online learning platform, but nevertheless, our school put a lot of stuff in place to aid us in that endeavour. It was a little tough at first. I had to get used to it. I had to study on my own for a very long time, but eventually, it became a norm and I got used to it and I became familiar with the [online] environment,” Khemchand stated.

Savitri Mahadeo, however, indicated that regardless of the challenges throughout the journey, hard work and determination conquers

Savitri Mahadeo

Ronaldo Khemchand - 16 Grade Ones and 3 Grade Twos

Karuna Lall

Roushnie Lall - 15 Grade Ones and 4 Grade Twos

all.

She expressed her gratitude for the journey since she believes it has given her the necessary experience for the outside world.

“Well, it was a bit challenging of course, as anything is, however, with determination, hard work and enthusiasm – basically loving what you do, you can get through it. And for me, I think it was a really long journey, cause its five years, but it meant a lot to me,” Mahadeo expressed.

“It really gave me experience, experience in so many areas and I think it really prepares you for the outside world that you’re going into.

It was a really eventful journey and the amount of love and support I had was the basis of getting me through it, basically.”

CAPE

CAPE has always been somewhat of a tough nut to crack and the school’s top performers for CAPE highlighted this by noting that the examinations were quite different from CSEC. Even though this posed some amount of challenges for Atishta Seenarine who acquired Grade Ones in the nine units she wrote and Shivnarine Chaitram who attained seven Grade Ones, one Grade Two, and one Grade Three, they made it to the end of the tunnel and indicated that their teachers along with family were the pillars of their success.

“So, CAPE was very different from CSEC. It was more challenging, more application so I had to do more regular studying and stuff like that. Because it was in a pandemic, it was different. The learning was pretty blended for me. At SVN

we did online and in school.

So, on the weekends it would be online and during the week would be in school.

It was different, the new approach that they had, but at the same time I appreciated it because it was helpful. I actually appreciated the online classes. They were okay for me. I could’ve managed them,” Seenarine explained She further pointed out that “In terms of subject wise – as I said before they were application-based and so all I had to do was like more constant revision and pretty much ensure that I understand the content to the max and I think that has helped me a lot in the examination… since we were doing a small number of subjects, you had like more free time in between so, I was able to put in my own study, I had more time to do like my own personal preparation.”

“The school also helped a lot because my teachers always made sure we had the best materials and they’re always there. Whenever you need anything, you could always ask them,” Seenarine shared.

Chaitram on the other hand stated that apart from the pandemic, the lack of resources for some of the units he wrote were at the centre of the challenges he faced.

However, he indicated that his teachers did their best in ensuring that they were prepared to the maximum capacity for the exams.

He also praised his family, especially his brother, who also wrote the exams, for helping him in acquiring the rewarding grades he obtained.

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021

27

Regional Costa Rica issues US offers $5M in rewards for COVID-19 vaccine information on Mexican drug traffickers requirement for children

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osta Rican children aged five and up must get COVID-19 vaccinations, according to a new Health Ministry mandate, making the Central American country one of the first to adopt such a requirement for kids.

The move would add COVID-19 to a list of other infectious diseases in which vaccines for children have for years been required, including for polio and small-

pox.

"Our basic vaccination scheme has made it possible to subdue many of the viruses that cause suffering and health consequences and even fatalities in the underage population," Health Minister Daniel Salas said in a statement issued on Friday, announcing the addition of COVID-19 to the scheme.

Coronavirus infection rates in Costa Rica have

been trending down recently, with confirmed COVID-19 deaths totaling more than 7000, according to official data, out of a population of around 5.1 million.

So far, nearly three-quarters of the country's 12 to 19-year-olds have received at least one vaccine dose, while about 54 per cent of all Costa Ricans have been fully vaccinated. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Marilia Mendonca, popular Brazil singer, dies in plane crash at 26

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arília Mendonça, one of Brazil's most popular contemporary singers, has been killed in a plane crash at the age of 26, officials say.

Four other people - her uncle, her producer and two crew members - also died in the accident in a rural area in south-eastern Minas Gerais state.

An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the crash.

A Latin Grammy winner in 2019, Mendonça became famous for focusing on women's experiences with failed relationships.

One of the biggest names of Brazilian country music known as sertanejo, Mendonça started her career as a teenager, and became a national star in 2016 with a hit about infidelity. She was known as the country's "Queen of

Suffering".

Last year, as concerts were cancelled because of the pandemic, she performed in a series of online gigs. One of them set the record of the most-watched live stream in the world, with 3.3 million peak viewers on YouTube.

In 2020, she was the most listened to artist in Brazil on Spotify.

Mendonça, who had a two-year-old son, was set to perform at a concert on Friday evening in the city of Caratinga, 12km (seven miles) from the crash site.

Hours before the accident, she posted a video on social media in which she prepared to board the private aircraft.

The singer's staff had initially said she was alive and well after news of the accident emerged.

Television images later

Marília Mendonça's songs were famous for focusing on women's experiences with failed relationships

showed the damaged aircraft near a waterfall in a mountainous area.

After her death was confirmed, Brazilian footballer Neymar said on Twitter: "I refuse to believe, I refuse".

Singer Anitta said: "I can't believe it. I want to believe that there is still hope".

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Chile conservative Kast maintains lead in final pre-election opinion polls

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Chilean presidential candidate Jose Antonio Kast

hilean rightwing presidential front-runner, Jose Antonio Kast, has retained his grip on first place in pre-election opinion polls ahead of leftist Gabriel Boric, as pollsters go into a legal blackout period two weeks before the Nov 21 election.

The Pulso Ciudadano poll, released on Saturday by consultancy Activa Research, had lawyer Kast on 27.3 per cent of the vote versus 23.7 per cent for Boric. In third place was Christian Democratic senator Yasna Provoste with 13.5 per cent.

Last week the same

study said Kast had taken the lead in its first round poll, but appeared to be behind in a likely second round. If no candidate gets an absolute majority, there would be a vote in December to choose between the top two.

The Cadem opinion poll, which surveyed 1010 people, gave 25 per cent of the vote to Kast and 19 per cent to Boric, a 35-yearold congressman and former student leader. Many of the top candidates are in isolation after Boric tested positive for the coronavirus.

The Cadem poll showed Kast, whom his adversaries compare with Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, gaining 44 per cent of the vote in a hypothetical head-to-head against Boric, who it had on 40 per cent in a second round vote.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

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he United States State Department has announced rewards of up to US$5 million each for information that will help authorities capture and convict four Mexican drug cartel leaders, including the brother of infamous trafficker Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman.

Along with Aureliano Guzman-Loera, US authorities are also upping their pursuit of brothers Ruperto Salgueiro-Nevarez, Jose Salgueiro-Nevarez and Heriberto SalgueiroNevarez.

The quartet has been “charged in US indictments for violation of US drug laws, to include international conspiracies to distribute marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl,” State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement on Friday.

The highly dangerous synthetic opioid fentanyl is “responsible for more than 63 per cent of the 96,779 drug overdose deaths in the United States between March 2020 and 2021,” Price

More than 300,000 people have been murdered since the Government deployed the military in the war on drugs in 2006

added.

The four men operate under the umbrella of the federation of the Sinaloa Cartel, one of Mexico’s most notorious drug trafficking groups, which El Chapo led until his most recent capture and imprisonment in 2016.

Guzman was extradited to the US a year later and has since been sentenced to life in prison.

The State Department announcement comes the

same day as a Justice Department announcement of indictments charging the four with violating international trafficking laws.

For more than 10 years, the US and Mexico have worked together to fight drug trafficking under a programme called the Merida Initiative, with Washington providing military firepower, technical support and security training. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

US Embassy postpones all visa appointments in Haiti

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he Embassy of the United States in Haiti has announced the postponement of all visa appointments until Friday, November 12.

In making the recent announcement, US officials said the Embassy remains open to services for US citizens in the French speaking Caribbean nation.

“Pease avoid unnecessary travel and remain vigilant as the security situation continues to be highly unpredictable,” the

Embassy officials stated.

“As a reminder, Haiti has a Level 4 “Do not travel Advisory for kidnapping, crime, and civil unrest.”

The travel advisory for Haiti, available at travel. state.gov, notes that kidnapping is widespread and victims regularly include US citizens.

The Embassy noted that those deciding to travel and/or remain in Haiti should carefully consider the information available on travel.state.gov regard-

ing the extremely high risk of the kidnapping threat in Haiti.

US citizens have been warned to avoid all non-essential travel to Haiti; while those in the country should use extreme caution when travelling; they should avoid demonstrations and crowds, avoid driving through roadblocks, monitor local media and practice contingency plans for shelter in place and/or accessing airports. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

J/ca Govt providing subsidy for CSEC students to resit exams

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r Kasan Troupe, Acting CEO in the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information, says the Government will be providing a subsidy for secondary-level students to retake their exit exams this year due to the challenges caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

In a release, Troupe noted the “disruptions” caused by the pandemic and assured students who will need to re-sit the exams that assistance is on the way.

"We know that the pandemic has really created

some disruptions, so, for some of our students, the results for subjects like math were not impressive,” she pointed out. "We would have provided in this year's Budget, because of that, the subsidy for you to get the opportunity to sit those subjects again. This is just a special provision for this year for those students, given the pandemic experience."

“For those on the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH), once you have the qualifying scores, you get up to eight CSEC

subjects covered. We also pay for one of your National Vocational Qualifications of Jamaica (NVQJ) skilled exams at grade 11,” she added.

She noted that the support will continue in the Sixth-Form Pathways programme.

Students will benefit from three subject subsidies for Communication Studies and two units of their choice. The SixthForm Pathways is part of the Ministry's implementation of a seven-year highschool programme. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

28

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021

Around the World

Ninety-nine killed in fuel tanker blast in Sierra Leone capital A t least 99 people were killed and more than 100 injured in the capital of Sierra Leone late on Friday when a fuel tanker exploded following a collision, local authorities said.

Emergency crews worked to clear the scene on Saturday in Freetown’s eastern suburb of Wellington where a burnt body and the blackened shells of cars and motorbikes blocked the road following the crash, a Reuters reporter said.

The wounded were treated in hospitals and clinics across the capital, Deputy Health Minister Amara Jambai told Reuters.

Victims included people who had flocked to collect fuel leaking from the ruptured vehicle, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, mayor of the port city, said in a post on

Facebook, although that post was later edited to remove the reference.

“We’ve got so many casualties, burnt corpses,” said Brima Bureh Sesay, head of the National Disaster Management Agency, in a video from the scene shared online. “It’s a terrible, terrible accident.”

Videos shared online shortly after the explosion showed people running through clouds of thick smoke as large fires lit up the night sky.

The crash provided a major challenge for Freetown’s health service already creaking from years of underfunding. The 2014-2016 Ebola epidemic gutted the country’s ranks of medical staff, 250 of whom died, and the system has not recovered.

Connaught Hospital was

A

tended the outdoor event, which has been cancelled.

Lina Hidalgo, the county judge of Harris County, described what had happened as an “extremely tragic night”.

“Our hearts are broken,” she said. “People go to these events looking for a good time, a chance to unwind, to make memories - it’s not the kind of event you go to where you expect to find out about fatalities.”

Astroworld said in a statement that their hearts

People watch burnt car and motorcycles after a fuel tanker explosion in Freetown, Sierra Leone on November 6, 2021

overwhelmed with the influx of patients, so some of the injured were moved to other locations, including a military hospital, said Swaray Lengor, a programme manager at the International

Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

The World Health Organisation said it would send supplies and deploy specialists in burn injuries.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

were with the “festival family... especially those we lost and their loved ones”, and they thanked local emergency services for their response.

The incident began around 21:15h on Friday (02:15 GMT Saturday), Houston Fire Chief Samuel Peña said.

As the crush began causing injuries to people, the panic grew, the official added.

Organisers halted the event when it was apparent that many people had been hurt, but the sheer scale of the casualties quickly overwhelmed the existing medical facilities, the fire chief added.

Some 300 people were treated for injuries such as cuts and bruises on Friday.

Judge Hidalgo said “many” of those killed at the festival had been “tragically young”.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

At least 11 killed in fire at Palma de Mallorca: Fleeing Indian hospital COVID ward passengers shut down A busy Spanish airport

O

ne of Spain’s busiest airports shut down for nearly four hours on Friday after an apparent attempt by migrants to enter the country illegally.

A plane flying from Casablanca in Morocco to Istanbul, Turkey, was diverted to Palma de Mallorca after a medical emergency was reported aboard.

When the jet landed, 21 passengers ran off across the runways, reportedly escaping over the perimeter fence.

Police later made arrests but 12 were still on the run on Saturday.

Police are investigating whether the group’s escape from the plane was spontaneous or an elaborate plot to immigrate illegally.

The top Spanish Government official for the Balearic Islands, Aina

Calvo, said the event was unprecedented for a Spanish airport.

The drama began when emergency services boarded the Air Arabia Maroc plane to evacuate a Moroccan man said to have fallen into a diabetic coma. As they did so, 21 other passengers ran down the steps and fled, reportedly hiding under parked planes.

Most of the escapees who were arrested were found by the Guardia Civil, the Majorca Daily Bulletin reports, noting that “one was caught walking along the road to Manacor”.

Some 60 national and international flights were diverted or delayed as a result of the incident.

The Air Arabia Maroc plane later continued to Turkey with its remaining passengers. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Biden says US has tools to respond to OPEC+ withholding oil supply

U

Travis Scott’s Astroworld: 8 killed after crowd surge at Texas festival t least eight people have died and scores of people have been hurt after a crowd surge on the opening night of a music festival in Houston, Texas.

Panic broke out after the crowd began to press towards the front of the stage at rapper Travis Scott’s Astroworld Festival, emergency officials said.

Eleven people were taken to hospitals in cardiac arrest and eight died. Some casualties are aged as young as 10.

Some 50,000 people at-

OILNEWS OIL NEWS

t least 11 patients have died after a fire broke out in a hospital’s COVID-19 ward in the western Indian state of Maharashtra, officials said.

An official told New Delhi Television that around 17 patients were in the ward in the city of Ahmednagar when the fire broke out. The remaining patients have been moved to a COVID-19 ward in another hospital, district magistrate Rajendra Bhosle said.

While the fire has since been brought under control, the cause was not immediately clear, he added, saying officials will carry out an investigation.

The former Chief Minister of the state, Devendra Fadnavis, took to Twitter to call for “strict action” against those responsible.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to Twitter to offer condolences to the bereaved, adding, “may the injured recover at the earliest”.

The incident is the latest in a string of deadly fires in hospitals across the country.

In May, when the country was battling a devastating surge in coronavirus cases, a fire in a COVID-19 ward in western India killed 16 patients.

That fire, which sparked in Patel Welfare Hospital in Baruch city, also killed two staff members, authorities said.

A month before that, 13 people were killed when another fire tore through an intensive care unit in the outskirts of Mumbai.

Past incidents have been blamed on poor maintenance of machines, equipment malfunctions, and a lack of proper firefighting equipment.

India experienced an enormous wave of COVID-19 infections in early 2021, overwhelming hospitals across the country.

Cases have since dropped amid a widespread vaccination campaign. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

S President Joe Biden said on Saturday that his Administration has ways to deal with high oil prices after OPEC and its allies rebuffed US pleas for the producers to pump more crude.

“There are other tools in the arsenal that we have to deal with other countries at an appropriate time,” Biden said when asked by a reporter at the White House whether he would authorise a sale from the US Strategic Petroleum Reserve.

OPEC+, a group of producers including Saudi Arabia, Russia and other countries, on Thursday snubbed US pleas to go beyond a previous plan to raise oil output by 400,000 barrels per day from December.

Oil prices have hit over US$80 a barrel, raising fuel prices for consumers.

“I’m not anticipating that OPEC would respond, that Russia and/or Saudi Arabia would respond,” Biden said. “They are going to pump some more oil. Whether they pump enough oil is a different thing.”

Biden said his Administration will discuss the issue. “We can get more energy in the pipeline figuratively and literally speaking,” he said.

US Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm has said that the Energy Information Administration forecasts gasoline prices slipping to US$3.05 a gallon in December, which is probably not a level, she said, that the strategic reserve would come into play. But the forecasts could change, she said.

Granholm said Biden would make any decisions on tapping the reserve, which is held in a series of caverns on the Texas and Louisiana coasts. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Sudan activists announce strikes, reject power-sharing with army

S

udan’s protest movement has announced two days of nationwide strikes, rejecting internationally backed initiatives to return to a power-sharing arrangement with the military following last month’s coup.

The Sudanese Professionals Association (SPA), which spearheaded a popular uprising that led to the 2019 removal of longtime ruler Omar al-Bashir, said mediation initiatives which “seek a new settlement” between the military and civilian leaders would “reproduce and worsen” the country’s crisis.

The association called for strikes and civil disobedience on Sunday and Monday under the slogan of “No negotiations, no compromise, no power-sharing”, and promised to continue protesting until a civilian government is established to lead the transition towards full civilian rule.

Reporting from the capital, Khartoum, Al Jazeera’s Hiba Morgan said on the SPA had called on civilians on Saturday evening “to set up barricades in neighbourhoods and on main streets to encourage people, and to also reduce the number of people who would go to work on Sunday and Monday”.

Pro-democracy protesters have staged large demonstrations denouncing the coup, which derailed the country’s fragile path towards democracy and was met with international outcry.

The Sudanese military seized power on October 25, dissolving the transitional administration and arresting dozens of government officials and politicians.

Since the coup, the international community has accelerated mediation efforts to find a way out of the crisis, which threatens to further destabilise the already restive Horn of Africa region.

Al Jazeera’s Morgan said on Saturday that talks between the military headed by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Forces of Freedom and Change (FFC) civilian component has so far failed to produce any results, despite the mediation efforts. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021

ARIES (March 21April 19)

29

Listen and make decisions that are in line with your dreams. Avoid a situation that poses a health problem.

Being an observer can have its benefits. Someone will reveal one of your secrets.

Ask questions, but don't TAURUS participate in someone else's (April 20plan. Consider what you like to May 20)

do, then invest your time and money in projects that will help you get ahead. Learn from mistakes.

You'll attract questionable

GEMINI individuals. Don't let your emo(MAY 28tions lead you astray. Protect June 20)

your reputation, possessions and cash. Refuse to let someone push you in a dubious direction.

CANCER Emphasize things that interest (June 21- you. Use your knowledge, experiJuly 22) ence and skills to attract attention

and interest in what you want to pursue. Reach out to someone who shares your concerns.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO

(Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Dilbert LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Peanuts

Tension will mount if things don't go according to plan. Take the high road and do your own thing if someone chooses to make last-minute changes. Arguing is a waste of time and will ruin your day.

Take care of business before you move on to social activities. An idea you share with a friend or relative will draw interest. Lay out your plan of attack, and a worthwhile proposal will come your way.

Stepping up and assisting others will come with perks, but before you take on something, make sure it's worth your while. Someone you love will be disappointed or jealous, causing problems.

Declutter your space, lighten the load and focus on what makes you happy. Peace of mind comes from doing the best thing for you. Take responsibility and make the necessary changes.

SAGITTARIUS Emotional family issues will crop up if you or someone (Nov. 23close to you is withholding inDec. 21) formation. Try to keep loved ones updated regarding your plans. Being open will be crucial.

Keep your eye on what's CAPRICORN important to you. Someone (Dec. 22you least expect will play Jan. 19)

confusing emotional games.

Avoid situations that involve shared expenses, joint ventures or medical issues.

Calvin and Hobbes

Do your best, and you'll

AQUARIUS have no regrets. Don't let anyone take advantage of you le(Jan. 20gally or financially. Set the Feb. 19)

standard and do what makes you happy. A positive attitude will help.

Make changes under the PISCES (Feb. 20- radar. If you share too much Mar. 20) information regarding what

you are up to, someone will stifle your plans. Avoid situations that lead to emotional difficulty.

30

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021

BCB successfully launches Patron’s Social Skills Seminars T

he Honorary Patron of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB), Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat, on Saturday hailed the outstanding work of the BCB as he officially launched the first of four social skills seminars that would be held under the BCB Patron’s Fund.

Before an attentive group of 45 under-19 youths drawn from the New AmsterdamCanje area and gathered at the New Amsterdam Multilateral Secondary School, Minister Bharrat urged the development of a culture of hard work, discipline, commitment, and humility despite the adversities of life.

Sharing that he is a proud patron of this progressive cricket board, the Minister committed himself to working along with the Hilbert Fosterled BCB administration to mould all of the county’s cricketers into well-rounded individuals who would represent Guyana and the West Indies with honour.

Participants of this BCB Social Skills Seminar posing with Minister Bharrat

BCB President Hilbert Foster has said the social skills seminars are the brainchild of the BCB Patron, who had expressed concern over the standard of cricketers off the cricket field in terms of

basic mannerisms, etiquette, public speaking, and the balancing of education.

This first seminar would be followed by three others, in West Berbice, Upper Corentyne and Lower

Corentyne.

The BCB President disclosed that more than 160 youths would benefit from the four seminars which would be

youths to take advantage of the opportunities being presented to them by the BCB and its Patron, as the opportunities represent invest-

GFF Exco approves special five-day Transfer Window from Nov 8

T

he Guyana F o o t b a l l Federation’s (GFF’s) Executive Committee has given the green light for a special five-day transfer window, starting on Monday November 8th, to enable the movement of players between clubs in the run-up to the senior men’s and women’s year-end football bonanza.

T h e

transfer wind o w will close at midnight on Friday, November 12th.

The decision follows a meeting with the ten Elite League clubs to address challenges ahead of the safe and fair return of play.

“We want to make sure all our clubs and players

have equal opportunity to prepare in the best possible way for the upcoming yearend tournaments,” said GFF President Wayne Forde. “We encourage clubs and players to make the best use of this special transfer window, and we hope that any resulting transfer activity will build excitement among fans as we prepare for this year-end festival of football.”

The GFF will host three tournaments over the Christmas and New Year holiday season: the GFF-Kashif & Shanghai Super 16 Cup, the GFF Women’s Super-16 Cup, and the GFF Futsal Championship Cup.

Both Foster and Minister Bharrat spoke widely on the danger of illegal drugs, false friends, and the negative influence of social media.

Among the topics covered at the six-hour seminar were life skills training, basic mannerisms, etiquette, team building, problem solving, conflict resolution, public speaking, leadership, and balancing sports and education.

Levi Nedd, House Master at the GuySuCo Training Centre taught the youth players - which included national female cricketer Ashmini Munisar - how to have lunch using the traditional knife and fork. The youths were also taught table etiquette as the BCB strives for to prepare them for future international duties.

Special emphasis was placed on public speaking, which is now relevant at both the regional and international levels.

Minister Bharrat involved each of the participants in public speaking by getting each one of them to introduced themselves. Former BCB Secretary Mortimer George also prepared a comprehensive ten-page document on the history of Guyana and West Indies cricket, which was distributed to all of the participants.

The BCB also handed over a special gift to Minister Bharrat at the end of the seminar.

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BCB Patron Minister Vickram Bharrat receiving the BCB special gift from Ashmini Munisar

conducted by graduates of the University of Guyana’s Social Workers Class, and by qualified personnel that include Marissa Foster, Seeta Dalloo, Denicia Henry, Levi Nedd and Junior Blair.

Foster has urged the

ments in their future.

He noted that less than one percentage of youth players would go on to play for the West Indies, and he said that, as such, the BCB wanted the remainder to still have a successful life.

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021

31

Harry, Persaud, Albert, London crowned MACORP Golf Tourney champions

Winner of the 0-9 flight, Ravendra Harry, receiving his prize from MACORP CEO Guillermo Escarraga

S

aturday November 6 is a day to remember; it was a day full of drama and a day filled with much joy, despite the weather wanting to have its way. The MACORP Golf tournament was in full swing, and no competitor held back as the action unfolded at the Lusignan Golf Club. In the end, Ravendra Harry, Videsh Persaud, Shanella London and Rohan Albert all won their respective categories.

The results for the day were as follows: Men’s 10-18 1st: Videsh Persaud, gross 85 hc 17 net 68 2nd: Mike Guyadin, gross 78 hc 10 net 68 3rd: Anand Persaud, gross 87 hc 18 net 69 Ladies’ 0-36 1st: Shanella London, gross 79 hc 8 net 71 2nd: Christine Sukhkram,

Winner of the 10-18 flight, Videsh Persaud (R)

gross 83 hc 26 net 72 3rd: Eureka Giddings, gross 101 hc 26 net 75 Men’s 19-28 1st: Rohan Albert, gross 95 hc 24 net 71 2nd: Wayne Chan, gross 100 hc 28 net 72 3rd: Brian Hackett, gross 91 hc 19 net 72

Men’s 0-9 1st: Ravendra Harry, gross 78 hc 8 net 70 2nd: Rakesh Harry, gross 80 hc 9 net 71 3rd: Jaipaul Sukhnanan, gross 80 hc 8 net 72 Best gross: Kasim Khan Best net: Videsh Persaud The LGC has said in a statement: "The Lusignan

Winner of the 0-36 flight, Shanella London

Permaul's Test selection is on merit

The winners' row

Golf Club and MACORP are partners in every way, as was shown with the big turnout. We at the golf club are happy to have such a willing and able partner in MACORP. MACORP are more than just sponsors, they are the ones that came forward when the grounds were in a bad shape with flooding in 2019 and 2020.

They donated equipment to deal with our drainage and irrigation, which has done tremendous, as the overnight rain did not affect today’s tournament, as we finished on time. We are thankful for the relationship, and it is mutually beneficial.

“Further, they have donated many other things, hence we are grateful to Guillermo for their support towards LGC." Fifteen years ago, MACORP joined with the Lusignan Golf Club, and has since continuously supported the club. MACORP is known for its support of community service projects and sports in Guyana.

MACORP is the only authorised dealer of Caterpillar products in Guyana.

Winner of the 19-28 flight, Rohan Albert

Guyana represented at Colombia’s ARCHERY world-ranking event and World Games qualifier

— BCB says in congratulatory message

T

he Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) has expressed congratulations to left-arm spinner Veersammy Permaul on his selection on the regional team to represent the West Indies in the upcoming Test tour to Sri Lanka.

In a social media post, the BCB said: "This selection is very pleasing to all of us in the county, as Veerasammy has surpassed all expectations on the field of play during CWI regional tournaments, and his selection is on merit.

"We would like to wish him all the success on the tour, and (hope) that this would be the start of a prolonged run in the team.

“The county of Berbice continues to be the flag-bearer of excellence in the country, and our players continue to be selected at all levels of West Indies cricket - junior, senior and females. It is the result of the hard work of our club officials and members of the BCB, who work hard every day to make sure that our rich legacy goes on.

“Congratulations, Veerasammy; and do make us proud."

Permaul and the Test squad departed Antigua on Saturday to play two Test matches, starting on November 21. Both of the Test matches will be played at the Galle International Stadium in Sri Lanka.

West Indies will have a four-day warm-up match in Colombo from November 14 to 17, before the Tests follow from November 21 to 25, and from November 29 to December 3.

This series is the second of six series, three at home and three away, that West Indies will play in the 2021-2023 ICC World Test Championships.

FULL SQUAD: Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain), Jermaine Blackwood (Vice Captain), Nkrumah Bonner, Roston Chase, Rahkeem Cornwall, Joshua Da Silva, Shannon Gabriel, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Kyle Mayers, Veerasammy

Kemar Jayden Jeremy a n d

Permaul, Roach, Seales, Solozano, J o m e l Warrican.

A

Devin taking aim in Medellin, Colombia

rchery Guyana are extremely proud of our lone Guyanese archer in Medellin, Colombia, Devin Permaul, who has been proudly flying our Golden Arrowhead.

The Colombian city of Medellin has hosted the Americas’ last world-ranking event of the season, which will also act as the continent’s last qualifier for the 2022 World Games in Birmingham, USA. The tournament ran from November 2-7 in the sports complex Andres Escobar.

More than 70 archers from 13 nations competed, and there were three quota places available in the compound men’s and women’s events for Birmingham.

Competition started with

qualification on Thursday, November 3, and ran until Sunday, November 7, with the individual finals. Devin Permaul is there, wearing so many caps alone in Colombia…. An athlete, administrator, coach, motivator, PR person etc….

Secretary-General of Archery Guyana, Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon, conducted a short interview with him: Devin Persaud-Permaul said: “International tournaments have been a struggle for me. The scores in local tournaments aren't being reflected at this level of play.

I have headed to the World Games Qualifier in Colombia to gain more international ex-

perience and raise my confidence in shooting.

“There seems to be more familiarity now, as there are faces I recognise and (it) has kept me relaxed off the field.

Team Ecuador especially has been kind to me. Outside of archery, it seems learning Spanish seems advantageous, and that is another endeavour I hold.

“Practice was okay, it was the first time I didn't feel nervous, but there have been changes in my form that I am not fully confident in yet. This does feel like it's getting easier.

“They also put up a flag for Guyana at this tournament. It was the first tournament I had seen this, and thought it was cool.”

Sports is no longer our game, it’s our business

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2021

guyanatimesgy.com

David Warner, Josh Hazlewood spoil Dwayne Bravo’s farewell with convincing Australia win

A

s the sun set on the T20 empire of the West Indies, a team full of T20 greats, one all-time great in the opposition, David Warner, played a memorable knock to make a potentially tricky target look easy. The only thing between Australia and a semi-final spot now is a big win for South Africa over England later in the night.

West Indies, already eliminated from the tournament, could now be asked to play the first round of the next World Cup to reach the Super 12s stage; only the top-eight teams on November 15 will get automatic entry into the Super 12s.

It was a wistful day, with Dwayne Bravo definite-

ly and Chris Gayle possibly playing their last match for West Indies. It was also a reminder of passing time that Australia’s bowlers kept getting the better of them.

Josh Hazlewood led with three wickets with almost Test-match-like bowling. It took hard work from Kieron Pollard and Andre Russell to take West Indies to 157.

Warner responded with his highest World Cup score, 89* off 56 balls, while Mitchell Marsh lent an impressive hand with the bat to go with his tight bowling, scoring his first World Cup half-century.

That they finished it off in the 17th over took their net run rate up to 1.216, leaving South Africa needing a 61-run win

way at 53 for 1 in eight overs.

Warner has had an underwhelming few months, with his IPL team moving on from him and a slow start for him at the World Cup. However, at the business end of the tournament, he finally seemed to have found the timing back.

He picked the balls to attack perfectly, and executed them just as well.

Chris Gayle and David Warner sharing a moment at the conclusion of the match

should they score 160 to deny Australia the semi-final spot.

Coach and team optimistic as Junior Jags begin campaign today

Fearless start interrupted

West Indies with nothing to lose can be a scary proposition. Evin Lewis and Gayle gave Australia a taste of that, taking 19 runs in Hazlewood’s first over. A trademark six over long-on, never mind a short-of-a-length slower ball, off Pat Cummins followed, but Gayle ended up playing on the next ball. Out for 15 off 9 deliveries, he raised his bat as he walked off and was hugged by team-mates just across the rope.

In the next over, Hazlewood made a comeback as he bashed a good length, drawing a slice to cover from Nicholas Pooran, and then dislodging the top of off, going past Roston Chase’s defence.

Three wickets lost for five runs, and West Indies were now forced to rebuild at 35 for 3 in the fourth over.

Middle-overs choke

G

uyana’s Junior Jaguars will step onto the pitch for the first time today when they play the Cayman Islands in the CONCACAF Under-20 Qualifiers in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

The Guyanese side are in Group D, with Nicaragua, US Virgin Islands and Cayman Islands.

Sharing on the team’s preparation leading up to their game against Cayman Islands at noon today, Head Coach Wayne Dover has said he is optimistic about the team’s preparation.

“The preparation we had (gives) us a feeling of optimism about performing excellent in the tournament.

That leave us with the expectation of being competitive in the first game tomorrow (today), which we hope

brings a positive result to start with, that will set the tone for us,” The Under- 20 Men’s Head Coach stated.

Newly appointed Under-20 Captain Omari Glasgow also voiced his confidence in the preparation that the team has had over the past few months.

“Well, the preparation has been great, we have to just put out the final work on the pitch; but the preparation has been solid, (and there has been) a massive improvement from the first time the team start training to now. So, we are expecting good results,” he noted.

Glasgow, who made his Senior National Team debut with the Golden Jaguars earlier this year at just 17 years old, and even scored his first international goal during that stint, is the perfect candidate to lead the

Junior Jags, as they hope to qualify for the Under-20 Championships.

The teenager said about his personal achievement, “It’s an honour being named team captain. I’m looking to put my best foot forward and make the team also put their best foot forward, so the team can come out victorious tomorrow (today).”

The CONCACAF Under-20 Qualifier is not only the gateway tournament to the Championships, but is also gateway to the FIFA Men’s U20 World Cup in 2023 and the Paris Olympic Games in 2024.

After taking on the Cayman Islands today, Guyana will oppose the US Virgin Islands on Monday, November 8, and Nicaragua on Wednesday, November 10.

With two left-hand batters in the middle, Glenn Maxwell got an over in before Marsh and Adam Zampa applied the chokehold. Marsh gave nothing away in terms of pace or room, while Zampa continued with his quick legbreaks and variations. With the fourth-wicket partnership reading 35 off 35 and time running out, Lewis had to take his risks, and the Zampa wrong’un was ready to collect the wicket in the tenth over.

Hazlewood then came back in the 13th to bowl a mean bouncer at Shimron Hetmyer’s armpit, who just couldn’t get out of the day, making it 91 for 5.

Pollard, Russell fight

Australia were spot-on with their plans and execution against the West Indies batters, giving nothing away to Bravo, but Pollard and Russell showed flashes of what made

them T20 greats.

Pollard ended with 44 off 31, and Russell finished the innings with successive sixes, his first of the tournament, which gave them 48 off the last four overs, and some hope.

Hosein stifles openers

That hope looked like it might amount to something, as Akeal Hosein tied Australia up with his arm balls, getting Aaron Finch out bowled in his second over. His figures at the end of his two overs read 2-07-1.

Warner attacks at the other end

At the other end, though, Warner kept attacking, hitting Chase and Jason Holder in the powerplay. When he finally managed to get the better of Hosein in the sixth over, Australia were well on their

Marsh supports

Once the powerplay ended, Australia needed runs to flow from each end, and Marsh did it for them. He began with a reverse-sweep off Hayden Walsh Jr, who had had a great series against Australia a few months back, and then added a six down the ground off Hosein. Once Marsh took six, four and four off Russell in the tenth over, Australia needed just a run a ball.

A jovial end

The last two complete overs of the match went to Bravo and Gayle. Warner switch-hit Bravo for four before pulling him for six. Gayle then bowled with his hat and sunglasses on, indulging in banter with Warner. With possibly his last ball in international cricket, Gayle had Marsh caught at mid-off. He followed the returning Marsh and jumped on him for a hug from behind to celebrate the wicket. There were smiles and grins all around to mark much-celebrated careers.

(ESPNcricinfo)

SCOREBOARD WEST INDIES INNINGS (20 OVERS MAXIMUM) Chris Gayle b Cummins 15 Evin Lewis c Smith b Zampa 29 Nicholas Pooran † c Marsh b Hazlewood 4 Roston Chase b Hazlewood 0 Shimron Hetmyer c †Wade b Hazlewood 27 Kieron Pollard (c) c Maxwell b Starc 44 Dwayne Bravo c Warner b Hazlewood 10 Andre Russell not out 18 Jason Holder not out 1 Extras (lb 6, w 3) 9 TOTAL (20 Ov, RR: 7.85) 157/7 Did not bat: Hayden Walsh, Akeal Hosein Fall of wickets: 1-30 (Chris Gayle, 2.2 ov), 2-35 (Nicholas Pooran, 3.1 ov), 3-35 (Roston Chase, 3.3 ov), 4-70 (Evin Lewis, 9.3 ov), 5-91 (Shimron Hetmyer, 12.5 ov), 6-126 (Dwayne Bravo, 17.3 ov), 7-143 (Kieron Pollard, 19.2 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Mitchell Starc 4-0-33-1 Josh Hazlewood 4-0-39-4

Pat Cummins Glenn Maxwell Mitchell Marsh Adam Zampa

4-0-37-1 1-0-6-0 3-0-16-0 4-0-20-1

AUSTRALIA INNINGS (TARGET: 158 RUNS FROM 20 OVERS) David Warner not out 89 Aaron Finch (c) b Hosein 9 Mitchell Marsh c Holder b Gayle 53 Glenn Maxwell not out 0 Extras(lb 3, nb 1, w 6) 10 TOTAL (16.2 Ov, RR: 9.85) 161/2 Did not bat: Steven Smith, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade †, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood Fall of wickets: 1-33 (Aaron Finch, 3.3 ov), 2-157 (Mitchell Marsh, 15.6 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Akeal Hosein 4-0-29-1 Roston Chase 1.2-0-17-0 Jason Holder 2-0-26-0 Dwayne Bravo 4-0-36-0 Hayden Walsh 2-0-18-0 Andre Russell 2-0-25-0 Chris Gayle 1-0-7-1

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