Guyana Times - Wednesday, August 19, 2026 by Gytimes

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 6550

THE BEACON OF TRUTH WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026

5th FPSO to arrive in Guyana this week, set to push oil output past 1M bpd – Pres Ali …confirms Guyana’s share of Stabroek Block production rises to nearly 40% Page 3

CSEC, CAPE preliminary results

Tagore Memorial Secondary School student gains 26 Grade 1s, 1 Grade 2

Pages 2&7

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Be prepared P15 to operate in evolving defence environment – Army Head tells new soldiers

50% electricity rate cut being implemented in some villages – Pres Ali P11 …more to benefit in coming months

Nitya Narine

Essequibo teacher dies after speeding car plunges P11 into trench

“Concrete Man” admits to killing Linden teacher

…Guyana’s CSEC Mathematics pass rate climbs as schools record major gains “Very proud of myself” – Nitya Narine on outstanding CSEC performance …earns 26 Grade 1s, 1 Grade 2 See story on page 10

Page 16

Modern e-procurement system to be rolled out by year end See story on page 13

CoI into MV Barima tragedy to begin P 15 groundwork next month – Pres Ali …companies being shortlisted to salvage vessel

2 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Guyana’s CSEC Mathematics pass rate climbs as schools record major gains – Chief Education Officer A s the 2026 Caribbean Advanced P r o f i c i e n c y Examination (CAPE), Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC), Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) and Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence (CCSLC) preliminary results were announced on Tuesday, Chief Education Officer (CEO) Saddam Hussain reported an improvement

in Guyana’s Mathematics pass rate, with several schools recording significant gains. The achievement was also hailed by Education Minister Sonia Parag as a major step forward, particularly as Mathematics continues to be one of the most challenging subjects for students in Guyana and across the Caribbean. Guyana’s CSEC Mathematics pass rate increased from 32 per cent

in 2025 to 34.5 per cent in 2026. Hussain announced the improvement during the release of the preliminary 2026 examination results. According to Hussain, the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) has begun the modularisation of subjects through the Caribbean Targeted Education Certificate (CTEC), breaking traditional CSEC and CAPE subjects into smaller, manageable modules.

Against this backdrop, the Mathematics syllabus was divided into three parts under a pilot programme introduced in several schools. Hussain said several schools recorded significant improvements under the modularisation pilot, with pass rates reaching as high as 90 per cent. “I am very pleased, on behalf of the Ministry of Education, to say to us that in 2026, Mathematics has increased by 2.5 per cent.”

Chief Education Officer Saddam Hussain

Positive results

He explained that CXC’s modularisation approach has already begun producing positive results. Hussain also highlighted several schools that recorded notable improvements in their Mathematics performance. “I want to address the pass rate of 32 per cent in 2025 to 34.5 per cent in 2026. And I want to highlight some of the schools that have done so fantastically well.” Belladrum Secondary moved from zero passes to 81.49 per cent, while Fort Wellington Secondary improved from 5 per cent to 82.15 per cent. Novar Secondary, Shivita Business College and Queen’s College all secured 100 per cent passes. Bartica Secondary recorded a 57-percentage-point increase, while Rosignol Secondary improved by 35 percentage points, Leguan Secondary by 28 points and Cummings Lodge Secondary by 25 points. South Ruimveldt also improved from eight per cent to 60 per cent. Hussain credited initiatives such as the Mathematics Tents, virtual teaching and the Digital School platform for contributing to the improvements. Seventeen virtual classes connected experienced teachers with students across the country, including those in hinterland and riverine communities.

Direct interventions

Meanwhile, Education Minister Parag said the results were a direct reflection of the various interventions undertaken by the Ministry to improve Mathematics education. “Generally, performance, I am particularly pleased with the improvement we have seen this year in Mathematics and Additional Mathematics. It

tells us that the interventions that we are making are beginning to bear fruit, all of which are a deliberate effort to improve performance.” The improvement comes against the backdrop of longstanding concerns over Guyana’s Mathematics performance.

Comprehensive strategy

Following a 34 per cent pass rate in Mathematics in the 2023 CSEC examinations, President Dr Irfaan Ali announced that the Government would embark on a comprehensive strategy to improve performance in the subject. “Because of our concern about our performance in Mathematics, I had some initial conversations with the Education Minister and I’m of the view that perhaps we need to, in a very targeted manner, create additional hours for Mathematics in the secondary school system, especially at the exam level — additional compulsory hours,” Ali said in 2023. He added that efforts would also be made to explore available Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools that could be incorporated into the school curriculum to deliver better learning outcomes. “Because we cannot continue with the existing pass rates in Mathematics. It is unacceptable, and we must change it, and we will change it,” Ali said. Currently, the Ministry of Education operates a national Mathematics Intervention Programme targeting Grades 10 and 11, aimed at improving students’ performance in regional examinations. The multi-tiered initiative includes extended morning instruction, free learning tools such as scientific calculators and past papers, specialised external instructors and broadcast lessons through the Guyana Learning Channel.

NEWS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENING

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, August 19 – 08:05h–09:35h and Thursday, August 20 – 09:00h–10:30h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Sunny skies with brief instances of light showers are expected during the day, followed by clear skies at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius. Winds: East-North-Easterly to Easterly between 2.68 metres and 4.47 metres. High Tide: 08:40h and 20:55h reaching maximum heights of 2.32 metres and 2.33 metres. Low Tide: 14:28h reaching a minimum height of 0.94 metre.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15, 2026

LOTTERY NUMBERS O

16 19 22

FREE TICKET TUESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2026

4 Bonus Ball

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12 14 20

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Afternoon Draw

Evening Draw

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COMMODITIES Indicators Crude Oil

US$ $91.93/barrel

Change % +1.00

Rough Rice

$254.88/ton

-0.60

London Sugar

$539.50/ton

+3.15

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Low/High

$459.90 $4324.10

$4361.90 $4436.80

Change

+24.90

+0.57%

Bid/Ask

he Country’s Fifth Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading vessel, the Errea Wittu, is expected to arrive in Guyana this week and will push the country’s oil production beyond one million barrels per day by yearend. This was announced on Tuesday by President Dr Irfaan Ali during a press conference at the Office of the President. “Our fifth production vessel set sail from Singapore in early August 2026 and is expected to arrive off Guyana’s coast this week, with first oil targeted for the fourth quarter of 2026,” he noted. The Errea Wittu is assigned to the Uaru development project in the Stabroek Block. Built by MODEC at a cost of US$12.7 billion, the vessel is designed to add approximately 250,000 barrels per day (bpd) to national production. The new vessel will join the four FPSOs currently operating in the Stabroek Block: Liza Destiny, Liza Unity, Prosperity and One Guyana, which together are producing approximately 900,000 to 920,000 barrels of oil per day. President Ali emphasised that once operational, the new FPSO will “push national output above one million barrels a day for the first time”. Uaru, ExxonMobil’s fifth offshore development in the Stabroek Block, targets more than 800 million barrels of recoverable oil. Meanwhile, Whiptail, the sixth sanctioned project, is targeted for start-up in 2027, while Hammerhead was approved as the seventh development, with production expected around 2009.

40% of production

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2026

…confirms Guyana’s share of Stabroek Block production rises to nearly 40%

PAY DAY

5th FPSO to arrive in Guyana this week, set to push oil output past 1M bpd – Pres Ali

Meanwhile, the Head of State also clarified that Guyana’s share of Stabroek Block profit oil has increased from 12.5 per cent to 39.8 per cent, largely because the project’s cost bank was recovered earlier than initial-

ly anticipated. He explained that whereas as much as 75 barrels out of every 100 previously went toward cost recovery, today only about 20 barrels are allocated to costs. “The production sharing formula has never changed. It remains exactly what was written in the 2016 agreement: royalty first, then up

to 75 per cent of production can go to cost recovery; whatever is left is split evenly between Guyana and Stabroek co-venturers,” he explained. He further noted that while the US$55 billion expenditure was paid off, the cost bank is not saturated or entirely depleted. “The 20 barrels today ac-

count for operating and other costs, which still form part of the cost bank. That which is left is called the ‘profit oil’, and is split evenly between Guyana and the companies. Guyana’s half is about 39.8 barrels out of every hundred. The companies’ matching 39.8 barrels is split three ways between the co-venturers,” he highlighted.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026

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

Mathematics improvement & encouraging signs of progress T

he preliminary 2026 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) results offer an encouraging indication that sustained intervention can produce measurable gains in one of the most persistent challenges facing Guyana’s education system – Mathematics. Guyana’s CSEC Mathematics pass rate increased from 32 per cent in 2025 to 34.5 per cent in 2026. While the national figure remains below the desired level, the improvement is significant because Mathematics has historically presented difficulties for students across Guyana and the wider Caribbean. More importantly, the national increase has been accompanied by substantial gains at individual schools, demonstrating that targeted interventions can make a meaningful difference. The performance of several schools deserves particular recognition. Belladrum Secondary moved from no passes to an 81.49 per cent pass rate, while Fort Wellington Secondary increased from five per cent to 82.15 per cent. Novar Secondary, Shivita Business College and Queen’s College recorded 100 per cent passes. Bartica Secondary improved by 57 percentage points, Rosignol Secondary by 35 points, Leguan Secondary by 28 points and Cummings Lodge Secondary by 25 points. South Ruimveldt also moved from eight per cent to 60 per cent. Such results provide useful evidence for education policymakers, as improvement is not confined to schools traditionally associated with stronger academic performance. Significant gains in different parts of the country suggest that access to appropriate teaching support, additional instructional resources and structured intervention can alter outcomes. The Education Ministry’s Mathematics Tents, virtual teaching arrangements and Digital School platform is part of this response. Seventeen virtual classes have connected experienced teachers with students nationally, including learners in hinterland and riverine communities. Such initiatives are particularly important in addressing disparities in access to specialised teaching. The improvement also coincides with a significant development at the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), where Mathematics has become part of a pilot modular approach under the Caribbean Targeted Education Certificate (CTEC). The rationale behind modularisation merits serious consideration. The traditional examination model can result in students completing years of study without receiving formal recognition for competencies that have been acquired because the overall subject grade does not meet the required standard. CTEC seeks to recognise learning progressively while retaining the established syllabus and assessment standards. The Mathematics pilot provides an important basis for evaluating the approach. More than 2500 candidates participated in Module One across 15 Caribbean territories and 42 centres, with 88 per cent achieving acceptable grades. CXC subsequently reported that 69,567 candidates earned the Module One credential, including more than 41,000 candidates whose learning could otherwise have gone unrecognised under the traditional assessment structure. This does not mean that academic standards should be reduced. CXC has made clear that the full qualification still requires successful completion of all modules at the required standard. The value of modularisation instead lies in creating a more flexible route for demonstrating competence and allowing students to build on achievements progressively. Competencies in areas such as pricing, discounts, interest, and statistical analysis have practical applications beyond the classroom. If employers understand and recognise these credentials, modular certification could strengthen the connection between secondary education, skills development and entry-level employment. The regional Mathematics results reinforce the importance of this approach. CXC reported a four-percentage-point increase in the regional Mathematics pass rate, to 42 per cent in 2026. That improvement, while still leaving Mathematics behind several other major CSEC subjects, demonstrates that progress is possible. The challenge now is to convert improvement into sustained advancement. The national Mathematics Intervention Programme, which targets Grades 10 and 11 through extended instruction, learning resources, specialised instructors and broadcast lessons, provides an important foundation. Continued evaluation will be necessary to determine which measures are producing the strongest results and where additional support is required. The 2026 examination results also point to areas requiring attention, as more than 32,000 registered CSEC candidates did not sit examinations, while concerns were raised over incomplete School-Based Assessments and an increase in examination irregularities. These issues have direct implications for educational outcomes and require sustained attention from schools, families and education authorities. The gender gap in examination participation also warrants closer examination, with females accounting for 59 per cent of CSEC candidates and 62 per cent of CAPE candidates. Understanding why participation becomes increasingly unequal as students progress through the education system should form part of future policy analysis. Nevertheless, the Mathematics results provide a reason for measured optimism. The progress recorded by individual schools, the national improvement, the regional increase and the early success of modular assessment collectively demonstrate that educational challenges are not immovable.

A performer takes part in the Pandam Paliya performance, during the final Grand Randoli Perahera of the 76th Bellanwila Esala festival, Bellanwila, Sri Lanka (Photograph: Isura Nimantha/NurPhoto)

Raising our children safely

By Caroline Ravello

s we come close to the end of the July-August school vacation, it is almost a waiting game for parents and children looking towards the new academic year. For parents, these may be difficult weeks to keep children engaged. By now, camps have ended, extra lessons are on a break, money is running low, parents are going back to work from vacation, and sundry other scenarios have occurred. These are the weeks of ad hoc arrangements. I remember them well from my parenting days. When faced with the same issues, it became a matter of how to keep a child engaged while we wait for the return to school routines. I am prompted to return to child safety with the knowledge of how easy it is to expose our children to adverse experiences when pressure mounts. Following the recently concluded series on trauma, I feel even more compelled to ring the bell here to remind parents/guardians that most of our life’s traumatic experiences, which may cause severe lifelong injury, begin in childhood. Often when infractions occur, our children, for various reasons, do not speak or expose the situations. They may have been threatened by the offender or have been told that if they speak, they will be blamed and punished, or they simply are too ashamed and guilty to speak up. Some children may be too young to process, but they know innately that something is wrong with the incident or action and carry the burden silently. Whichever these infractions, whether verbal, physical, emotional or sexual, surface/resurface when children find the agency that allows for processing their feelings, forming and voicing their opinions and making their own decisions. Research shows that for many, by

this time of independence and growing self-esteem, the injuries from infractions are already evident. Consider that it is in adolescence and young adulthood that the onset of mental illness most commonly occurs. Around 50 per cent of lifetime conditions begin by age 14, and 75 per cent by age 24. The incidence of anxiety and depression is often in the mid-teens or early twenties and is the most frequent mood challenge for this period. Bipolar disorders are typically evident in the teenage years and young adulthood, while schizophrenia and psychosis often begin in the late teens to early twenties (https://pmc.ncbi. nlm.nih.gov/). Not all of these are related to adverse childhood experiences, since the aetiology of mental illnesses is diverse, but the evidence remains that childhood infractions are a major factor. It is therefore in our best interest to keep our children safe and protected from threatening environments. None of us can be with our children every waking moment; therefore, it is important to find ways to mitigate their exposure to adverse circumstances. The US non-profit organisation SOS Children’s Villages gives these suggestions for monitoring and preventing child abuse. • Learn the warning signs: Understand physical, behavioural, and emotional indicators of abuse or neglect. (Be sufficiently concerned to educate yourself). • Minimise isolated opportunities: Reduce or eliminate unmonitored, oneon-one situations between a child and a single adult. (This adult could be a relative, a close family friend or even an older sibling). • Maintain open communication: Encourage children and vulnerable individuals to speak freely about their feelings and daily experiences. • Stay alert to changes: Watch for sudden shifts in mood, regression, sleep disruption, or uncharacteristic

fear (or avoidance) of specific people. • Trust your instincts: Do not dismiss gut feelings or doubts regarding someone’s safety. • Report suspected abuse: Contact local child protection services, law enforcement, or relevant interventions if danger or harm is suspected (sos-usa. org). Communication is key to protecting our children, and as parents, we need to understand appropriate approaches. Whether you suspect an infraction or simply want to create an opportunity to keep communication open with your child, there are approaches that help to make your charge feel safe to speak up. • Stay calm: Do not approach the child in anger, look shocked, or behave panicked, as the child may think they caused your reaction and may shut down. • Do not lead: Avoid questions like “Did he hit you?” or “Did they touch your leg?” Use general prompts instead (see below for suggestions), and do not interrogate by asking too many details, which may retraumatise the child or confuse them. • Reassure them: Tell the child simply and clearly, “I believe you” and “This is not your fault” (raisingchildren.net.au). Safe, open-ended questions to ask Rather than press a child with direct questions, ask “What’s been going on?” And follow up with something such as “Can you tell me more about that?” Allow the child to tell the story by prompting with “What happened?” Listen quietly and follow up with soft enquiries like “What happened next?” or “Who was there?” “When did this happen?” keeping your tone conversational and never confrontational. Asking, “Has anyone touched you in a way that made you feel uncomfortable or weird?” is also a good way to help a child to open up, and especially ask, “Has anyone asked you to keep a secret from me?” (T&T Guardian)

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026

guyanatimesgy.com

News

Truck damages GPL network in Ruimveldt …driver, 2 porters arrested; granted $100,000 bail each

truck damaging a section of the Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) network in Ruimveldt, Georgetown, on Tuesday afternoon resulted in an electricity interruption, with the driver and two porters later taken into Police custody and each placed on $100,000

station bail. According to GPL, the vehicle, bearing registration number GYY 5259, was travelling north along La Penitence Public Road when it turned west and became entangled with overhead telephone cables. The incident caused damage to GPL’s network

approximately one hour after the incident. The driver and the two porters associated with the vehicle were subsequently taken into Police custody and each placed on $100,000 station bail. A report was also lodged at the Ruimveldt Police Station, with investigations ongoing. GPL said it was concerned about the frequency of incidents involving vehicles and its network infrastructure, and urged vehicle operators to exercise caution when manoeuvring near utility infrastructure. The company advised drivers and operators to assess their surroundings and ensure adequate clearance from overhead cables and other infrastructure before manoeuvring. GPL warned that damage to its network can result in electricity interruptions, costly repairs and serious safety risks to utility workers, motorists and members of the public.

and interrupted electricity service to customers in the area. It also disrupted the flow of traffic, causing a backup of traffic in the area. GPL said its response teams were immediately dispatched to the scene and carried out remedial works, restoring electricity

ECD house destroyed by fire, 2 nearby houses damaged

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026 00:00 Sign Off 06:00 Islam for Guyana 06:30 TVG Devotional Hour 07:00 Evening News (RB) 08:00 HGTV 09:00 Stop Suffering 10:00 Food Network 12:00 Movie - J.L. Family Ranch (2016)

house at Lot 608 16th Street, Foulis, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was completely destroyed by fire on Tuesday. According to the Guyana Fire Service, firefighters arrived to find the house engulfed in flames, with the fire threatening two nearby structures. Firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze before it spread further. However, the house and all of its contents were completely destroyed.

13:30 Movie - Duck Duck Goose (2018) 15:00 Cartoons 16:00 Indian Soaps 17:00 The Young & The Restless 18:00 Documentary: Nat Geo Animals 19:00 The Evening News 20:00 Stop Suffering 20:30 Movie - A Doggone Hollywood (2017) 22:00 Movie - Morbius (2022) The two other houses sustained minor damage.

The fire service said that it has launched an inves-

tigation into the cause of the fire.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026

Foundation ◄

Page

guyanatimesgy.com

Regular polygons A regular polygon is a closed, straight-sided figure that has equal side and angle measurements. If a polygon does not have all equal sides and interior angles, it is an irregular polygon.

In order to classify a regular polygon: 1. Check to see that the polygon has congruent (equal) angles and sides. 2. Count the number of sides of the polygon. 3. Name the polygon based on the number of sides. This table gives examples of regular polygons:

By Yusef Komunyakaa

volcano is an opening in Earth’s crust. When a volcano erupts, hot gases and melted rock from deep within Earth find their way up to the surface. This material may flow slowly out of a crater in the ground, or it may explode suddenly into the air. Volcanic eruptions may be very destructive. But they also create new landforms. There are more than 1500 potentially active volcanoes in the world today. Volcanoes look like a lot of other mountains or large hills. But unlike other mountains, the fiery lava and smoke that can be expelled into the area around them can affect the entire planet. During a volcanic eruption, hot melted rock called magma escapes from a vent in Earth’s surface. Magma released from a volcano is known as lava. Fresh lava ranges from 700 to 1200°C in temperature. It glows red as it flows out of the volcano’s crater. As it cools, it hardens into rock. Strong volcanic eruptions throw bits of magma into the air. These bits cool into tiny pieces of rock, called volcanic

ash. Wind can carry volcanic ash thousands of miles away. Volcanic ash can coat the land for miles around the volcano. Steam and poisonous gases also escape from volcanoes. Sometimes these gases are mixed with ash and other hot debris. This mixture travels outward in destructive fiery clouds.

Up there in that diorama of morning light through springtime branches, how many feathered lifetimes sifted down through green leaves, how many wars sprung up & ended before the cowbird figured out laws of gravity in Cloudcuckooland, before the songbird’s egg was nudged from its nest? Maybe a flock followed a herd of heifers across a pasture, pecking wildflower seed from fresh dung when the first urge of switcheroo flashed in their dirt-colored heads. What nature of creature comforts taught the unsung cells this art, this shell game of odds & percentages in the serpent’s leafy Babylon? Only the cowbird’s mating song fills the air until their young are ravenous as five of the seven deadly sins woven into one.

Write a story in which a character realises that a loved one (family, friend, etc) has a seemingly impossible secret. (Britannia Kids)

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CSEC, CAPE preliminary results highlight strong performances by Guyanese students – Tagore Memorial Secondary School student gains 26 Grade 1s, 1 Grade 2

Joseph Daniel

J’kell Whyte

Feiaz Dhanny

Abhigyan Chatterdeo

Ethan Thakurdin

Memorial Secondary School recorded 18 Grade One passes and three Grade Two passes, while Zhijie Yang of Saraswati Vidya Niketan secured 18 Grade One passes and one Grade Two pass.

lated them on their performances and acknowledged the support provided by parents, teachers and education officials. “Please let us celebrate these students who have done outstandingly at this

At CAPE, several students also recorded notable results across multiple units. David Sugrim of Queen’s College secured Grade One

College, recorded six Grade One passes and one Grade Two pass. Malique Lindore of Queen’s College secured six Grade One passes, five Grade Two passes, two Grade Three passes and three Grade Four passes. Siddiqah Nizamudeen of Queen’s College secured six Grade One passes, while Maria Pertabsingh, also of Queen’s College, recorded six Grade One passes and two Grade Two passes.

ceived results and expressed appreciation to their parents, guardians, teachers, head teachers and education officials. “We are proud of the progress reflected in these results, but our work does not end here,” the Minister said. Parag said the Government would continue to strengthen schools, support teachers, expand opportunities and make investments aimed at ensuring children across Guyana have access to quality education. “To the class of 2026, I wish you every success in the next chapter of your lives, and I look forward with great confidence to all that you will achieve and contribute to the future of our country,” she said. The preliminary results provide an early indication

passes in 11 units and Grade Two passes in seven units. Toreka Persaud and Mahesa Boodhoo, both of Queen’s College, each secured Grade One passes in nine units, while Savannah Bovell of the same school recorded eight Grade One passes. Dave Chowtie of Queen’s College secured six Grade One passes and four Grade Two passes, while Annessa Hussain, also of Queen’s

Shanel Storm of Queen’s College secured six Grade One passes and one Grade Two pass. Affianne Kellman of St Stanislaus College recorded six Grade One passes, three Grade Two passes and one Grade Three pass. Janee Greene of Mackenzie High School also secured six Grade One passes. Addressing the students at Tuesday’s ceremony, Minister Parag congratu-

CSEC 2026. Congratulations to all of you; we’re so proud of you, absolutely proud of you,” Parag said. She extended congratulations to students who re-

of student performance, with the final results expected to confirm the national rankings and overall outcomes after the review process is completed.

Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination

Zhijie Yang

Dishon Nundalall

tudents from several secondary schools have recorded strong performances in the 2026 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), with Nitya Narine of Tagore Memorial Secondary School recording 26 Grade One passes and one Grade Two pass. Narine secured passes in 27 CSEC subjects, placing her among the most outstanding performing students in the preliminary results released on Tuesday. The preliminary results were announced by Education Minister Sonia Parag during a ceremony at the Guyana Marriott Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown. The results are subject to review, and the final results, including confirmation of who topped the country, will be announced subsequently. Among the other most

outstanding performing students at CSEC were Anushka Singh of Queen’s College, who recorded 25 Grade One passes and one Grade Two pass. Shreya Ramnarine of Anna Regina Secondary School secured 22 Grade One passes, six Grade Two passes, and one Grade Three pass, while Joseph Daniel of The Bishops’ High School recorded 21 Grade One passes. J’kell Whyte of Queen’s College secured 20 Grade One passes, six Grade Two passes, and one Grade Three pass. Feiaz Dhanny of Saraswati Vidya Niketan recorded 20 Grade One passes and one Grade Two pass. Abhigyan Chatterdeo of Queen’s College recorded 19 Grade One passes, three Grade Two passes, and one Grade Four pass, while Ethan Thakurdin, also of Queen’s College, secured 19 Grade One passes and six Grade Two passes. Michel Somwar of Tagore

8 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“Concrete Man” admits to killing Linden teacher

Shaka Phillips

abourer Shaka Phillips, known as “Concrete Man”, pleaded guilty on Monday to murdering teacher Jenel Pollydore, who was shot dead during a wedding reception in Linden, Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) in 2025. Phillips, 22, appeared before Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif at the Demerara High Court. He is expected to return on September 30 for sentencing. Ahead of the sentencing hearing, Justice ChandraHanif ordered the preparation and submission of several reports to assist the

court in determining an appropriate sentence. These include a psychiatric evaluation, a report on Phillips’ conduct while in prison, a probation report, and assessments outlining the aggravating and mitigating factors in the case. Phillips, formerly of Amelia’s Ward, Linden, is on remand at a penitentiary pending the hearing. Pollydore, 26, a mother of three from Lower Kara Kara, Linden, was killed on July 19, 2025, while attending a wedding reception at the R&R Hotel in Central Amelia’s Ward, Linden. According to reports, Phillips, who is the father of Pollydore’s youngest child, approached her during the reception after confronting her about allegedly not answering his telephone calls. The encounter reportedly escalated into an argument, during which Phillips allegedly pulled a handgun and shot Pollydore. Police said Pollydore ran towards the hotel’s pool area in an attempt to escape, but Phillips followed her and fired two more shots. He then reportedly fled the area. When Police arrived at the hotel, they found Pollydore motionless near the pool.

Jenel Pollydore

Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif

She had sustained gunshot wounds to the right side of her face and the back of her head. Two spent 9mm shells were recovered from the scene as investigators processed the area. Pollydore was taken to the Linden Hospital Complex, where medical personnel pronounced her dead on arrival. Phillips was arrested the following day and subsequently charged with murder. Before the matter reached the High Court, Phillips appeared before Magistrate Rhondell Weever at the Linden

Magistrate’s Court, where the indictable murder charge was read to him. He was not required to plead to the charge and was remanded to prison. Police subsequently disclosed that Pollydore had ended her relationship with Phillips and had previously obtained a restraining order against him following alleged incidents of domestic abuse. Despite a restraining order and ongoing complaints, Phillips reportedly continued to stalk Pollydore, showing up at her workplace, home, and other locations.

Duo charged, remanded for robbing miner

ondel Richardson, 29, of Craig Village, East Bank Demerara (EBD) and Ronald Barker, 49, of South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, were slapped with a joint armed robbery charge and were remanded to prison. Richardson and Barker were arrested on Thursday, August 13, 2026, and subsequently charged on Monday. They appeared before Magistrate Caressa Henry at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court, where the charge was read to them. Both men pleaded not guilty and were remanded to prison until September 23, 2026. It was reported that on Thursday a 30-yearold gold miner of St Ignatius Village, Central Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo), was at a shop at 14 Miles, Issano Landing, when he was approached by the two suspects. During the incident, one of the men was reportedly armed with a handgun, and several rounds were discharged. The victim was allegedly assaulted and relieved of his wallet

The two men who were charged and remanded to prison

containing approximately $130,000, after which the suspects escaped on a motorcycle. The victim was subsequently found injured and taken to the Mahdia Regional Hospital, where he

Bring Back…

was admitted. Acting on information received, police subsequently apprehended the two suspects at 14 Miles Backdam. Further investigations led to another location in the area, where a

Glock pistol, one magazine, and three live rounds of ammunition were recovered. A 32-year-old gold miner of Golden Grove, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was also taken into custody.

…the King?

s a scout who promised to “do my duty to God and the Queen” of Britain, your Eyewitness is more than a tad concerned about the leadership muddle in old Blighty!! After tutoring us for centuries, the Brits seem to’ve perfected the art of producing Prime Ministers assembled overnight from leftover pieces of a focus group!! Maybe they should consider replacing them with that institution they abolished in everything but name – the Royals!!, Now your Eyewitness ain’t joking!! Think about it – the British have endured an unremarkable procession of politicos who arrive at 10 Downing Street promising to change the country – only to quickly disappear amid scandals, U-turns, leadership challenges, and the general impression that no one – including themselves!! – quite knows why they’re there!! There was the wild-haired blond, the austerity Chancellor, the earnest technocrat, the short-lived economic revolutionary, the caretaker, and now the latest model!! Remember them?? No??!! Your Eyewitness longs for the days when the occupant of Downing Street at least had a face John Public could recognise!! The Monarchy, meanwhile, has been remarkably stable!! The incumbent doesn’t announce a new policy every Tuesday morning – nor appear on television promising that Britain’s gonna “level up” something nobody’s ever heard of!! And he certainly doesn’t resign ‘cause 52 per cent of his colleagues decided he’s become an electoral liability!! Indeed, the royals already possess several qualifications ordinary Brits consider essential for modern British Governments!! They’re trained to wave, can survive embarrassing family scandals, are comfortable wearing colourful costumes – and have absolutely no compulsion to explain their policies on breakfast television!! Then there’s the added bonus of abolishing elections!! Can you imagine the savings??!! No endless leadership contests, no party conferences, no focus groups, no opinion polls asking whether the PM looks “sufficiently Prime Ministerial” – and no manifesto promising to spend money the Treasury’s already confessed it doesn’t have!! The King would just appoint a PM he fancies – and get on with the business of being King!! Parliament would continue debating furiously – secure in the knowledge that nobody’s listening!! And the Monarchy needn’t be entirely hereditary – every five years the royal family could hold internal elections based on who can best speak through clenched jaws!! The Monarch could continue cutting ribbons, inaugurate hospitals and deliver the King’s Speech – while the experts in the Civil Service run the country and tell him what they’re up to!! After all, if Britain’s gonna have BRITISH democracy, it’s gotta have the right people on the job – not the present lot going around a turnstile!! And while we’re at it, maybe here in ole Mudland we oughta move in the same direction?? Irfaan’s certainly proven he can cut ribbons and govern at the same time!! …solar Your Eyewitness has been cautioned to watch his AC usage – since we’ve reached our peak electricity generation!! He knows the Wales Gas-to-Energy plant’s gonna give us a big boost – but he thinks we should convert our – hundreds of thousands! – of private rooftops into miniature power stations!! The Government’s already launched a 5000home, grid-connected solar initiative allowing households to generate electricity during the day and send surplus power back to GPL for credits on their bills!! That target should be treated as a beginning, not an ambition!! Like they’d done with house lots, the Government should target 50,000 rooftop-solar homes within five years – while making installation just as easy and affordable with low-interest financing, tax concessions and standardised installation packages!! The rooftop solar programme’s gonna make the grid more resilient, reduce GPL’s daytime load – AND allow households to lower their electricity bills!! Our future electricity system doesn’t have to be Wales versus solar – but Wales PLUS solar with every suitable Guyanese roof producing a kilowatt!! …pork-knocking With all the furrin companies extracting our hundreds of thousands of ounces of gold every year – leaving us with just a bonus and wages – your Eyewitness calls on porkknockers to retake our national pride!! “When yuh bin a Kurupung…!!” The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

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

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

10 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“Very proud of myself” – Nitya Narine on outstanding CSEC performance …earns 26 Grade Ones, 1 Grade 2

ith a memory so sharp that few things in the aca-

demic realm seem to escape her, excellence has become almost second nature for

young scholar Nitya Narine, whose latest achievement has added yet another ac-

Nitya Narine

complishment to an already impressive record. The young Berbice student has earned one of the country’s most outstanding scores. More than 15 seasoned journalists and camera crew members rushed to capture a moment with the remarkable student, who spoke confidently and candidly about the journey behind her success. This took place at the Marriott Hotel Guyana on Tuesday, during the announcement of the 2026 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination preliminary results by Education Minister Sonia Parag. “I possess an excellent memory,” were among the words that caught the attention of those gathered, offering a glimpse into what has helped set Narine apart from many of her peers. According to the young scholar, her latest achievement was not entirely unexpected. “Thank you so much. First and foremost, before I begin to say anything, I want to thank God because throughout my life, God has been blessing me with my learning abilities, tal-

Narine along with her family and Education Minister Sonia Parag

ents and opportunities. But honestly, it wasn't that surprising because I have been achieving many accomplishments over the years.” Narine’s academic journey has indeed been marked by a series of accomplishments. In 2021, while in Grade Five, she sat the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) and earned a place at The Bishops’ High School, but attended Tagore Memorial Secondary School. She went on to win the inaugural Guyana Learning Channel Spelling Bee, while consistently excelling in art competitions at school. Given her track record of achievement, Narine said she was not surprised by her latest results and expressed happiness with her performance. With her sights now set on the next chap-

ter, she plans to attend the University of Guyana (UG), where she hopes to pursue law. “The next move, I'm going to attend the University of Guyana. I aspire to pursue law, and that is because I want to help people and I believe I can fight for justice. I possess an excellent memory, so I believe it's one of the capabilities of being a good lawyer.”

Progressive studying

Narine’s approach to studying was markedly different from the traditional method of waiting until examinations were near before beginning serious preparation. While many students may take the approach of studying intensely in the final years of secondary school, she began preparing TURN TO PAGE 16

NEWS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Essequibo teacher dies after 50% electricity rate cut being implemented in some villages – Pres Ali speeding car plunges into trench …more to benefit in coming months

resident Dr Irfaan Ali has reiterated the Government’s commitment to slashing electricity rates by 50 per cent once the Gas-to-Energy (GtE) project becomes fully operational next year, noting that some villages powered by solar energy are already benefiting from phased reductions. “In a very phased manner, I don’t know if you’ve realised, but we’ve started, especially in areas where we have the solar installation and where we have the battery backup system. In those areas, we’ve been able to already announce phased reduction in the cost of electricity,” the President told a press conference at the Office of the President on Tuesday. A few days ago, Public Utilities and Aviation Minister Deodat Indar disclosed that the cost of electricity in Bartica (Region Seven, Cuyuni-Mazaruni) has been decreased by 25 per cent, while in Region One (BarimaWaini), it has been slashed by 30 per cent. According to President Ali, other communities will soon similarly benefit. “I’ve committed to, in other areas, for example, in Region Two, where we have the solar system, and in Leguan and Wakenaam, where we have those solar systems, to look also at the phased reduction there,” the Head of State noted. He added that Lethem, Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo), where there is a hydropower plant, will also be considered for the phased reduction.

The solar farm in Bartica, Region Seven

“In the coming months, there will be additional communities that will feel the first tranche of that reduction,” the President said. Currently, most customers are receiving power from the national grid at $43.43 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for residential use and $56.38 per kWh for commercial use. The GtE project will see natural gas being piped from the Stabroek Block offshore to the Wales, West Bank Demerara, site where a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility and a 300-megawatt combined-cycle power plant are currently being built. Prime Minister Mark Phillips told a press conference last Friday that the project will deliver 57 megawatts (MW) of natural gas-powered electricity by year-end and that it will be fully operational by early 2027. “By the end of this year, we’ll see 57 megawatts. At least one of the turbines will be spinning and generating 57MW, and in the first quarter of 2027, we’ll have up to 228MW,” the PM explained.

The power generation component will utilise four SGT800 gas turbines paired with heat recovery steam generators (HRSGs) and steam turbines operating in a combined-cycle configuration to produce generation capacity of approximately 300MW. While the gas turbines are slated to all come online by mid next year, the full 300MW capacity will not be reached until the end of 2027, once the final combined-cycle configuration is completed. The system has been engineered with built-in redundancy, allowing individual turbines to operate independently and be phased onto the national grid, which will ensure continuous and reliable power supply as well as a 50 per cent reduction in electricity costs. The GtE Project is a key part of the Guyana Government’s energy transition agenda, which has already seen renewable sources such as solar and hydropower being used for power generation across the country.

The car Davanand Singh was driving when it ended up in the trench

teacher attached to Charity Secondary School lost his life after he lost control of the car he was driving and ended up in a trench along the Lima Back Road, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam). Dead is Davanand Singh from Danielstown, Essequibo Coast, and former Head of Department (HOD) for Home Economics at Charity Secondary School. At the time of the accident, a 34-year-old self-employed man from Lima Sands, Henrietta, Essequibo Coast, was in the vehicle. Based on reports received, Singh, who was driving motorcar PAH 3199, was proceeding along the roadway at

a fast rate of speed when the car began swaying from left to right due to the crush and run surface. As a result of the stones and speeding as main factor, Singh reportedly lost control of the motorcar and ended up in a nearby trench where it turned turtle. Singh was reportedly pinned in the car while the occupant managed to escape through a window unharmed. However, Singh was pulled from the car in a motionless state and was taken to the Lima Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The 34-year-old occupant was taken into custody as investigations continue.

Dead: Davanand Singh

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Modern e-procurement system to be rolled out by year-end

resident Dr Irfaan Ali on Tuesday announced that a modern, electronic procurement system will be implemented by the end of the year, in keeping with a manifesto promise made by the Peoples Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C). “I’m pleased to tell you that the finance secretary is leading the effort to have, before the end of this year completed, the e-procurement system fully completed and integrated,” the President informed a news conference on Tuesday. He said the e-procurement system will have a digital bidder’s register, an e-tender lifecycle module, a national e-tender portal, and an e-marketplace. This, the President noted, will transition the system from a paper-based process to a fully digital one. The National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) already has a bidder register, but under the e-system, it will be expanded to include additional information for each contractor, supplier and consultant. These include beneficial ownership, Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and National Insurance Scheme (NIS) compliance status, contractor classification by size, past performance, and any debarments or suspensions. The e-tender lifecycle module will digitise the full tender process end-to-end, covering procurement planning, tender creation, publication, bid submission, evaluation, contract award, contract administration, variation, payment processing, and real-time tracking. The module would automate routine checks; flag compliance; risk support evaluation teams with structured scoring tools; detect anomalies and potential red flags; and generate a dashboard for management oversight. The e-marketplace will be a catalogue-based marketplace for routine, low-to-medium-value goods and standard services that would allow procurement agencies to procure the same from pre-qualified suppliers using standard specifications, published prices, framework segments, and electronic purchase orders. According to President Ali, “This, of course, would help small and medium-sized enterprises.” “…and just like other systems around the world, we are looking to have maybe 25 to 30 per cent of procurement set aside for small and medium-sized enterprises,”

he added. Moreover, the Head of State noted that this new system will ensure greater transparency in public procurement. “It’s gonna be available for the whole public. So, from end to end, anyone can go on the electronic system, any bidder, and see from the bidding all the way to the award of the contract, every aspect of the bidding process,” he remarked. “You can go and see this contract was awarded to Mr X, and when you look at the system, you will see that Mr X got 20 outstanding works, so that is what the system allows; it allows full access to information…and that is critical for the transparency of the entire system,” he added.

Laws will be updated

President Ali further explained that the necessary laws will be updated to support the rollout of this e-procurement system. “When we launch the digital platform…that will necessitate maybe some amendments in the legislation itself. Because when you launch the digital procurement system you also have to have that blacklisting system working because then you’ll have contractors that are not delivering on time or contractors that have a number of outstanding projects, all of which will form part of the evaluation,” he noted. Just a few months ago, Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall had noted that contractors and engineers will be held more accountable under soon-to-be-updated procurement laws and contracts. Nandlall said the Government will update the Public Procurement Act as well as bid documents and pre-contract documents that form part of the tendering process. Additionally, he said the Government will update the standard form contract in keeping with international standards. “These contracts that are being used are not the most modern model contracts available. We have to review them to bring them in compliance with and in sync with the International Federation of Consulting Engineers models that are being used across the globe,” he had explained. According to the Legal Affairs Minister, a key focus of the review will be strengthening contractual provisions to ensure that contractors and engineers are held more accountable for fulfilling their obliga-

tions. “We will review the regime of remedies that flow when there is a breach, and we will strengthen the regime of remedies so as to offer to the State greater protection when there is breaches or non-compliance,” Nandlall had stated. “Significantly, the review will also be focused on the role of the engineer or supervisor of these contracts. These engineers and/ or supervisors are paid huge sums of money to monitor and evaluate the performance of the contract for and on behalf of the State… They are supposed to police the contracts, monitor and evaluate the contracts and ensure that when there are breaches, these breaches are reported and are remedied under the terms of the contract,” the Attorney General had noted, acknowledging that many times, this does not take place. He noted that, “Unfortunately, invariably, these engineers and our supervisors tend to align their interests more with the contractor than the employer.” “For example, instead of preventing and resisting attempts at variations in contracts that would inevitably result in an upward movement of the contract price, the engineers and our supervisors support the contractor’s request for an extension. Why? Well, I can’t say why, but the engineer and/ or supervisor are paid based upon that increase. Their remuneration package is tied to a variation that necessarily increases the contract price, and perhaps that is an incentive to give support. We have to ensure that that is reviewed, that state of affairs that I just outlined, a state of affairs that seems to reward rather than penalise a contractor for a variation,” Nandlall had outlined. He emphasised that the responsibility of the engineer/supervisor is to prevent such variations from taking place, but instead, “the evidence will disclose that, invariably, they stand in support. And one can’t discount that one of the reasons that may be influencing that posture is a financial one, because when the variation is granted, the supervisor’s contract or the engineer’s contract is also extended.” “That must be looked at,” Nandlall had affirmed. In the PPP/C’s manifesto, the party noted that it will continue to ensure that the public procurement system is fair, transparent, competitive, efficient, and promotes value for money. “We will further democratise access to Government procurement opportunities, improve both the competitiveness and fairness of the system, facilitate deepening of capacity on the supply side, and improve value for money in Government procurement transactions,” the party outlined in its manifesto.

14 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

3 drivers fined $660,000; 2 on bail for drunk driving, other offences

Fined: Ryan Bahadur

Fined: Ravindra Ramotar

Fined: Rakesh Ramphaul

On bail: Michael Persaud

ive people were taken before the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court on charges related to driving under the influence of alcohol, with three of them pleading guilty and receiving fines. Hire-car driver Ryan Bahadur, 28, of Paradise, Essequibo Coast, was charged with driving while his breath alcohol level exceeded the prescribed limit. The offence allegedly occurred on August 2, 2026, at Lima Public Road, Essequibo Coast. The charge was brought under Section 39A (1) of the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act, Chapter 51:02, as amended by the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Amendment Act 17 of 2022. When the matter was heard on August 12 before Magistrate Ravindra

Mohabir, Bahadur pleaded guilty. He was fined $200,000, with an alternative of three months’ imprisonment. Another hire-car driver, Michael Persaud, 30, of Taymouth Manor, Essequibo Coast, was charged with a similar offence stemming from an incident on August 3 at Capoey Public Road. Persaud appeared before Magistrate Mohabir on August 13 and pleaded not guilty. He was granted bail in the sum of $200,000, and the matter was adjourned to February 16, 2027, for trial. Meanwhile, Ravindra Ramotar, 39, a labourer of Capoey, Essequibo Coast, faced three charges arising from an incident on August 8, at Perth Public Road. Ramotar was charged with driving while his breath alcohol level exceed-

ed the prescribed limit, driving an unlicensed vehicle and breach of insurance. He appeared in court on August 17 and pleaded guilty to all three charges. He was fined $200,000 for driving with an excessive breath alcohol level, with six months’ imprisonment as the alternative. He was also fined $30,000 for driving an unlicensed vehicle and another $30,000 for breach of insurance, with three months’ imprisonment as the alternative for each offence. On August 18, Ramkarran Ramnandan, 29, a barber of Lot 26 Perseverance Estate, Essequibo Coast, appeared before Magistrate Mohabir on a charge of refusing to provide a breath specimen for a breath alcohol test. The charge stemmed

from an incident on August 3 at Anna Regina Public

On bail: Ramkarran Ramnandan

Road and was laid under Section 39B (5) of the Motor

Vehicle and Road Traffic Act, Chapter 51:02. Ramnandan pleaded not guilty and was granted $200,000 bail. The matter was adjourned to March 2, 2027, for trial. Also on August 18, Rakesh Ramphaul, 30, a fisherman of Crane, West Bank Demerara, appeared before Magistrate Mohabir charged with driving while his breath alcohol level exceeded the prescribed limit. The offence allegedly occurred on August 17 at New Road Public Road, Essequibo Coast. Ramphaul pleaded guilty and was fined $200,000, with six months’ imprisonment as the alternative.

Taxi driver slapped with sheep larceny charge, granted $300,000 bail

50-year-old taxi driver has been charged with the larceny of sheep belonging to a 46-year-old housewife of Onderneeming Sandpit, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam). Dennis Simon of Reliance, Essequibo Coast, was charged under Section 84 of the Summary Jurisdiction Offences Act, Chapter 8:02, in connection with an incident which allegedly occurred on August 6 at Onderneeming Sandpit. The charge was brought

Charged: Dennis Simon

against Simon for allegedly stealing sheep belonging to Sursattie Narine. The matter came before Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir at the Charity Magistrate’s Court on Monday. The charge was read to Simon, to which he pleaded not guilty. The prosecution objected to bail, but the court granted him bail in the sum of $300,000. The matter was adjourned to a later date for trial.

NEWS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Ramsammy’s CoI into MV Barima tragedy to begin Ruminations groundwork next month – Pres Ali

PNC-led Town Council continues to betray …companies being shortlisted to salvage vessel New Amsterdam

resident Irfaan Ali went to New Amsterdam to get citizens’ views on the modernisation and improvement of New Amsterdam. It was the President and his Government in a mutual sharing of ideas with citizens for their town. Suddenly, the Mayor and his sidekicks said they had their own plan for New Amsterdam. But I am yet to find a citizen in New Amsterdam who ever heard of the plan, other than the announcement soon after the President had his Dr Leslie Ramsammy consultation with the people, that the Mayor and Town Council had one. If there is a plan, the Mayor and Town Council of New Amsterdam never consulted with anyone in the town. It is, therefore, audacity, arrogance, and chutzpah for the Mayor to chide President Ali for not consulting with him when he and his colleagues in the Town Council absolutely ignored their own citizens. The President crafted a plan with the people; the Mayor and his colleagues concocted a secret plan. Two weeks ago, President Irfaan Ali conducted an open consultation with residents, businesses and other stakeholders in New Amsterdam on the concept of a model community. The Government had indicated that several towns, villages and communities in each region will be in the first phase of a rollout of model communities around the country. President Irfaan Ali, during consultation with New Amsterdam citizens, unveiled a sweeping modernisation blueprint for New Amsterdam at Berbice High School in Region Six, engaging directly with residents, business owners, social activists and other local stakeholders regarding modernisation and infrastructure upgrades. This includes, but is not limited to, a proposal for turning the old New Amsterdam Stelling into a modern boardwalk with restaurants and entertainment to support tourism and the orange economy; a remodelled municipal market, a dedicated vendors’ hub, upgraded internal drainage, new mechanical pumps, and improved road networks; and neighbourhood “health boxes” for basic medical checks linked to local clinics, alongside green spaces, parks, and traffic-relief reserves. The Mayor and Councillors from the PNC in the Town Council of New Amsterdam were MIA (missing in action). They insisted they were not invited. But a public invitation was published for days. As chief citizens, they had an obligation to be present. Even at this time, I am hopeful that the Mayor and the town council will do the constructive thing of inviting the President or the Minister of Local Government to engage them in the plans for New Amsterdam. But being constructive and doing what is beneficial to the town’s citizens are not priorities for the Mayor and the PNC-led APNU Councillors. In fact, the Mayor wasted no time in displaying the same obstructionist posture that all PNC-led councils have done in the past – opposing for opposing sake, showing loyalty to the PNC at the expense of the town and the people of New Amsterdam. Last week, the Mayor of New Amsterdam held a media conference in which he, predictably, rejected the central Government’s plan for New Amsterdam. After deeming the plan a “far-fetched” ideology and unachievable, the Mayor declared that New Amsterdam is his town and he rejects the President and the Government encroaching on his territory (my summary of what he stated). This is Déjà vu. Another Mayor said the same when, about 2002, President Bharrat Jagdeo sent me to Anjoy’s Avenue to help the community with their regularisation, transforming mud dams into asphalt or concrete roads and bringing potable water and electricity to the area. It was a massive undertaking for one of the biggest squatting areas in Latin America and the Caribbean. The PNC was responsible for people in Angoy’s living under substandard conditions in what was part of New Amsterdam, the second main town in Guyana. After meeting with residents and community activists, many of whom were PNC diehards, we crafted a plan. The then-Mayor’s response was, “Who is Ramsammy to come into my town and talk about development?” He swore that under his leadership he would not permit the then Bharrat Jagdeo-led Government to do anything without his permission in his town. He went as far as to say that Bharrat Jagdeo should “butt out of his town”. The same response is being made 25 years later by another PNC Mayor of this great town. Almost all streets in the town have been reconstructed and rehabilitated by the PPP Government. Drainage is being improved by the PPP Government. The Esplanade is being transformed. Recreation facilities are being upgraded, among other initiatives over the last several years. The Mayor and Town Council have done nothing. Not only have they done nothing to improve the town, they consistently obstruct the PPP central Government’s efforts to improve the town. Just as they have done for more than six decades, the PNC-led town council always stands between a PPP central Government and the development of the town. Conversely, they have always stood with a PNC-led central Government in doing nothing for the town. The most recent example of the Mayor and town council standing with a PNC-led central Government in doing nothing was between 2015 and 2020. David Granger once promised New Amsterdam that it would be the focal point for development in Regions Five and Six. But what did they deliver, other than wild promises? In 2018, the PNC-dominated Town Council raised property taxes by 100 per cent, at a time when New Amsterdam saw an almost 50 per cent decrease in business because of the 2016 closure of the Rose Hall Sugar Estate. Not a single street, not one improvement in the five years. Angoy’s was abandoned by both Granger and his PNC-led town council. The people of New Amsterdam expect that the Mayor and his PNC colleagues collaborate with President Ali and his Government in modernising New Amsterdam. Anything other than cooperation is total betrayal of the citizens of New Amsterdam. Unfortunately, working against the interest of the town and her citizens is predictable for the Mayor. The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

Members of the CoI

resident Dr Irfaan Ali on Tuesday disclosed that the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy is expected to begin groundwork next month. “The team is in place, they’ve started looking at their procedures, setting their procedures and working out their workplan and from what I’m told, in early September, the actual work would commence here on the ground,” he told a news conference at the Office of the President on Tuesday. The five members of the CoI were sworn in on July 30. They are Justice Godfrey Phillip Smith of Belize, the chairman, Dr Andrzej Jasionowski of Poland, Captain Hamada Fouda of Jamaica, and Attorney Nyree Dawn Alfonso and Rear Admiral (Ret’d) Hayden Pritchard, both of Trinidad and Tobago. Secretary to the Commission, Attorney Javid Shadick last week reported that works are ongoing to review the constitutional and legal framework to ensure the inquiry is conducted properly and without any complications. Additionally,

The MV Barima

he said arrangements for the public hearings are being finalised. In the meantime, President Ali assured that efforts remain ongoing to support those affected by the tragedy. He said consideration is also being given to establishing a special home to provide care and support for the children affected by the tragedy. “The priority is to ensure, especially where children, women and parents are involved, to ensure that we have close connections from the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Human Services with those families,” he explained, referring to the Hope, Empathy, Aid, Resilience and Trust (HEART) initiative, which will provide long-term, multistakeholder assis-

tance. “In that initiative, we also have a legal mechanism to support families in terms of some of the legal challenges that they will face and they are facing, in terms of documentation, classification; the mental health support, the medical support, the counselling support, the spiritual support; support for children, we’re working, for example, to see if there is need to establish a special home for children who have been affected,” he explained. The HEART initiative is also dealing with financial assistance for families on a case-by-case basis. The MV Barima, a passenger and cargo ferry, sank on July 18, 2026, off the coast of Guyana

near the Pomeroon River, claiming 73 lives, with another 30 persons still missing. The ferry remains on the seabed approximately 10 nautical miles offshore, resting on its starboard side. The deadline to submit Expressions of Interest (EOIs) closed on Friday and the Government is in the process of shortlisting companies to salvage it. “We’ve received a number of Expressions of Interest, those interests are being shortlisted now…and then those shortlisted entities will be invited to supply prices,” President Ali said. When asked, he could not say how many companies expressed an interest nor the breakdown of local and international firms that submitted EoIs. In the advertisement published seeking the EoIs, Government said it is seeking reputable salvage companies with a proven track record of successful vessel salvage operations in Guyanese or wider Caribbean waters, particularly environments characterised by strong currents and restricted visibility. Moreover, proposals must include a description of the proposed technical approach for the MV Barima salvage, with emphasis on the measures to protect and document forensic evidence for use by the CoI that was set up to probe the tragedy. Additionally, companies were asked to specify environmental protection measures. MV Barima was en route to Port Kaituma, Region One (Barima-Waini), with 179 persons onboard when it capsized. So far, three individuals, including the captain of the vessel, were charged and remanded on 72 counts of murder.

Be prepared to operate in evolving defence environment – Army Head tells new soldiers

he Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has welcomed a new intake of soldiers following the completion of Basic Recruit Course (BRC). The graduation parade was held on August 13 at the Colonel John Clarke Military School (CJCMS), Tacama, where the recruits formally concluded their initial military training. The course commenced on April 27 and was designed to equip recruits with foundational military knowledge, discipline and skills required for service in the GDF. Training covered areas including drill, military knowledge, marksmanship and phys-

ical fitness. In his feature address, Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, stressed the need for soldiers to be prepared to operate in an evolving defence environment. He highlighted the Sound, Image and Movement (SIM) and Awareness, Adaptability and Agility (AAA) concepts as important considerations for operating in a modern military environment. Brigadier Khan also underscored the importance of discipline, professional conduct and continuous learning as soldiers prepare for the demands of military service. Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS

TURN TO PAGE 16

16 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Regional CSEC pass rate rises to 72.18% as Mathematics improves to 42% – CXC T

he Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) has reported a slight improvement in overall performance at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) level, with 72.18 per cent of subject entries receiving acceptable grades in the May-June 2026 examinations, while Mathematics recorded a four-percentage-point increase to 42 per cent. The results were officially released on Tuesday during a regional ceremony hosted in Anguilla, where CXC officials also announced the formal introduction of a new modular certification system aimed at recognising what students have mastered even when they have not yet successfully completed an entire subject. CXC Director of Operations Dr Nicole Manning, presenting an analysis of the results, welcomed the improvement in Mathematics, a subject which has historically posed significant challenges for candidates across the Caribbean. “For math, the regional percentage being 42 per cent, this is a four per cent increase over the

CXC Director of Operations, Dr Nicole Manning

previous year. And this is a good story,” Manning said. “I don’t want anybody to be crying because any improvement in math is a good improvement. Improvement is improvement.” The Mathematics performance, however, remained well below several of the other major CSEC subjects. Information Technology was among the strongest-performing subjects highlighted, with 83 per cent of candidates receiving acceptable grades, while Principles of Business recorded 81 per cent and English A recorded 80 per cent.

Electronic Document Preparation and Management (EDPM) recorded 79 per cent and Human and Social Biology 78 per cent. Among subjects performing at or below the overall regional CSEC rate were Principles of Accounts at 72 per cent, Physics at 69 per cent, and Chemistry at 68 per cent. CXC also pointed to challenges in Social Studies, with Manning saying the subject had “taken a hit this year”. Performance across individual territories ranged widely, from 44 per cent to 100 per cent. At the Caribbean Advanced

Miner remanded for unlawful possession of gun, ammo

The gun found in Proctor’s possession Charged: Jermine Proctor

ermine Proctor, 32, a miner of Golden Grove, East Coast Demerara (ECD), who was charged with the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, has been remanded to prison.

Proctor was arrested on Thursday and appeared before Magistrate Caressa Henry at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court on Monday, where the charges were read to him. He pleaded not guilty and was remanded to prison September 29, 2026.

Proctor was found to be in possession of a Glock pistol, one magazine, and three live rounds of ammunition as police were conducting investigations into an alleged robbery at Issano Backdam, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

Be prepared to operate in...

The new soldiers following the completion of Basic Recruit Course (GDF photo)

According to the GDF, the training is an investment in the Force’s future capability as Guyana’s defence and security requirements continue to evolve. Outstanding perfor-

mances during the course were recognised through several awards. Private Jamin Williams was named Best Graduating Student and also received the award for Best Military Knowledge.

FROM PAGE 15

Private Carson Goodchild was named Runnerup Graduating Student. Private Jeremiah Paul received awards for Best Drill and Best Shot, while Private Royston Layne was awarded Best Fitness. The newly trained soldiers will now be assigned to units across the GDF, where they will continue their professional development and apply the skills acquired during their initial training. The GDF said the new intake will contribute to its capacity to maintain a capable and adaptable force in response to Guyana’s defence and security requirements.

Proficiency Examination (CAPE) level, meanwhile, CXC reported that 93.52 per cent of candidates overall received acceptable grades. Strong performances were reported in several subjects, including Information Technology, Environmental Science and Physics. Information Technology recorded acceptable-grade rates of 95 per cent and 99 per cent for Units One and Two, respectively, while Environmental Science recorded 97 per cent for Unit One and 96 per cent for Unit Two. Physics also recorded regional performances of 97 and 98 per cent. Communication Studies recorded a 93 per cent acceptable-grade rate. New certification pathway One of the most significant developments accompanying the release of the 2026 results was the official launch of the Caribbean Targeted Education Certificate (CTEC), following a pilot programme in Mathematics which CXC said produced encouraging results. CXC Registrar and Chief Executive Officer Dr Wayne Wesley said the initiative represents a fundamental change in how the council recognises learning, particularly for students who demonstrate competence in portions of a subject but do not attain an acceptable grade in the complete examination. For years, Wesley said, only about one-third of candidates have typically achieved acceptable grades in Mathematics. Under the traditional system, he explained, students could spend five years studying the subject but receive no formal recognition if their overall examination performance fell below the required standard. “Not because they learnt nothing, but because our instrument of assessment was an allor-nothing event. One subject, one sitting, one verdict,” Wesley said. CTEC seeks to change that by dividing the existing syllabus into focused modules which can be individually assessed and certified. CXC stressed that the programme does not lower the academic standard. CTEC uses the same subject content, syllabus and assessment standards as CSEC but allows candidates to demonstrate

CXC Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Wayne Wesley

competence progressively. Each successfully completed module becomes a credential which can be banked and ultimately accumulated towards the complete qualification. “A module is not a whole subject. The full qualification still requires completion of every module at the full standard,” Wesley stressed. “But that is precisely what these results demonstrate. When learning is assessed in focused, achievable stages, our students do more than cope. They excel.” 88% succeed in pilot More than 2500 candidates participated in the Mathematics Module One pilot across 15 Caribbean territories and 42 centres. Of the 2535 candidates who wrote the Module One examination during the May-June sitting, 88 per cent achieved acceptable grades. According to Wesley, only one candidate across the pilot received the lowest grade. He said the performance was particularly significant when compared with the long-standing difficulties candidates have experienced in the full Mathematics examination. CXC also examined the performance of students who sat the regular CSEC Mathematics examination because the competencies tested under CTEC Module One are already embedded in that examination. Wesley subsequently announced that 69,567 candidates had earned the Module One credential. Of particular significance, he said, were 41,367 candidates whose learning could now be formally recognised under the new system. “These are 41,000 students we would not have recognised

otherwise,” Wesley said. “What we have done here with CTEC is to ensure that no learning goes to waste.” CXC officials explained that candidates who successfully complete individual modules will be able to progress to the remaining modules. Candidates in the 2026 pilot will be allowed to complete Modules Two and Three free of cost and will have up to four years to complete the process. Once all three Mathematics modules are successfully completed, the candidate can attain the full qualification. Employment value CXC also intends for the individual credentials to have practical value outside the classroom. During a question-and-answer session following the results presentation, Wesley said the modules were structured around identifiable competencies which could help employers determine what skills a prospective employee possesses. He pointed to consumer arithmetic in Mathematics Module One, including areas such as pricing, discounts, simple interest and compound interest, as competencies that could be useful in entry-level employment. Module Two, he explained, incorporates statistical competencies which could have applications in areas involving population data, census work and statistical analysis. CXC has consequently been engaging employers across the Caribbean to explain what the individual credentials represent. Officials also made clear that CTEC is not intended to replace CSEC. TURN TO PAGE 17

“Very proud of myself” She described her method as “progressive studying” paying close attention during lessons, reviewing her work every day and addressing areas she did not understand immediately, rather than allowing gaps in her knowledge to accumulate. Whenever she encountered difficulties, she said she sought assistance from her teachers or parents, both of whom she credits as important sources of academic support. She also supplemented her preparation with educational videos and past examination papers, gradually building her knowledge and confidence over the

years rather than relying on last-minute revision. “So, what I did is progressive studying, which means I didn't wait until Grade 11 to begin studying, right? So, from since I began high school, every day I paid attention in class. You come home; I reviewed back the work. If I didn't understand something, I either asked a teacher or asked my parents. My parents are excellent teachers.” Her mother, who is also a teacher, and her father, an education officer, played an important role in supporting her academic journey. “My mother is a teacher. My father is an education

FROM PAGE 10

officer. And they have been my greatest support system. So, whenever I needed help, I usually went to them. Other than that, it's videos and working past papers, and that's basically how I studied.” Despite her confidence in her preparation, Narine said she remains humble and grateful to everyone who contributed to her success. “I'm still very proud of myself. I'm humble. I'm grateful to God, to my parents, to everyone my teachers in school, my lesson teachers. I'm really grateful for everybody who helped me achieve this.”

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026

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Regional

2 Dominican Police Officers US deports Mexican migrants to Guatemala, Honduras; angers Mexico charged with murder of teenage girl

he Trump Administration has been quietly deporting migrants from Mexico to different countries in Central America despite the Mexican Government’s willingness to accept the return of all its citizens, two Department of Homeland Security officials told CBS News. US immigration authorities have been sending deportees from Mexico to Guatemala and Honduras, flying them around Mexican territory instead of returning them to their homeland, the DHS officials said, requesting anonymity because they were not authorised to talk to the media. The officials said one of the objectives of the deportations, which have not been formally announced by the US Government, is to deter illegal immigration from Mexico by sending some of its citizens further south and farther away from the US-Mexico border. The deportations have

A protest held in Tijuana, Mexico, near the US–Mexico border wall by activists and migrants opposing upcoming US immigration policies and potential mass deportations

been occurring for months and have sent hundreds of Mexican citizens to Honduras and Guatemala, one of the DHS officials said. It was not immediately clear what the precise number was. In a statement to CBS News, Mexico’s Foreign Ministry voiced its opposition to the deportation of Mexican citizens to other countries. A DHS spokesperson said the Trump administration “is utilising all lawful options to carry out the largest deportation

operation in history, just as President Trump promised.” Under Republican and Democratic administrations, the US has deported Mexican migrants caught at the American southern border deep into Mexico in an effort to discourage them from trying to enter the US illegally again. But immigration policy experts said the move to send Mexican deportees to other countries in the region was unprecedented. (Excerpt from CBS News)

Brazil’s Lula hails oil discovery near Amazon River

razilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has hailed the discovery of oil near the mouth of the Amazon River. Speaking after the find was announced by Brazil’s state-run oil company Petrobras, he said it could be “a passport to the country’s future”. His decision to allow exploratory drilling in the area known as the Brazilian Equatorial Margin was heavily criticised by environmentalists, who raised concerns that any potential oil spills could devastate its ecosystem. Lula stressed that he was still committed to eventually phasing out fossil fuels to curb climate change. It is also still unknown whether extracting the oil,

face such a charge in this case. Hamlet did not have to enter a plea because murder is an indictable offence. After his court appearance, he was sent to the state prison and is scheduled to return to court on October 2, 2026, for a preliminary inquiry. The latest charge comes after the arrest of 23-year-old former Police Officer Jean-Luc Langlais, who was charged with homicide in Paul’s death. Langlais was dismissed from the Police force and sent to the State Prison. He did not have a lawyer and will remain in prison until October 2, 2026.

Police Chief Lincoln Corbette said the investigation into Paul’s disappearance and death is still ongoing and promised that every effort will be made to find the truth. Investigators also found what Police called an alleged attempt to hide Paul’s death by creating fake social media accounts to make it seem like she was still alive. Authorities said that more charges could still be filed as the investigation into Paul’s disappearance, death, and the alleged cover-up continues. (St Lucia Times)

Bolivia arrests political adviser to Latin American right-wingers

olivia has arrested a prominent adviser to several right-wing political leaders in Latin America on suspicion of plotting a murder. Fernando Cerimedo was arrested on Tuesday, following an attack on lawyer and political activist Nadia Beller. The consultant has worked on political campaigns for Argentina’s President Javier Milei, former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, and Bolivia’s President Rodrigo Paz. The Argentinian national was arrested in Bolivia at an

airport, trying to travel to his home country. Security videos captured Beller standing in front of a hotel in Santa Cruz when two men dressed as delivery drivers walked up the stairs, shot her from close range, took some of her belongings, and left her behind as she lay on the ground. Beller, who was four weeks pregnant, believes she was targeted for her opposition to a pack of unconstitutional laws which were being prepared by Cerimedo and the Government and for witnessing high-level

corruption. Beller is also understood to have had a romantic relationship with Cerimedo. She admitted to her relationship with him in a video appearance from her hospital bed and highlighted Cerimedo’s significant political influence. She said she decided to speak out, as she believes that “until I speak directly to the Bolivian people, they are going to finish what they attempted to do. They are going to end up taking my life.” (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Regional CSEC pass rate...

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva holding up a vial containing oil found as part of the exploratory drilling

almost 2886 metres deep, would be commercially viable. Conservationists have warned that the area where the exploratory drilling is taking place is very biodiverse, fearing that any accidents could threaten not just the nearby reefs but that cur-

rents could carry spilt oil to coastal wetlands teeming with wildlife. Lula has in the past rejected criticism by conservationists as “meddling”, and on Monday he again said that he would not accept any foreign interference. (Excerpt from BBC News)

T&T: 7 Police Officers released as probe into missing guns continues he seven Police Officers who were arrested in connection with the disappearance of three firearms and a quantity of ammunition from the Central Police Station (CPS) on St Vincent Street, Portof-Spain, have all been released. While no charges have been laid against anyone, senior Police officials yesterday confirmed that even though the investigation was continuing, some of the officers had been reassigned within the division. The official declined to reveal which officers had been transferred and to what stations but indicated they were to resume work as normal.

he discovery of the severely decomposed remains of missing teenager Jerbiah Paul has led to murder charges against two Police Officers in Dominica. Paul was reported missing on July 24. On August 12, her remains were found on a cliff in the northern village of Capuchin and later linked to her. Police said DNA testing was needed to confirm her identity. Police Officer Joshua Hamlet appeared in court on Monday. He was formally charged with Paul’s murder, becoming the second member of the Dominica Police Force to

The missing items include three Glock pistols, three magazines and 45 rounds of .9 mm ammunition. The discovery comes almost four months after the armoury at the San Fernando Municipal Police Station was found emptied of arms and ammunition. Following that incident, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) initiated a firearms audit to determine the number of firearms and ammunition that were stolen. The audit is yet to be completed. Municipal Police Officers were subsequently instructed to lodge their firearms at Police stations, as stricter security measures were put

in place by the TTPS to ensure accountability. Contacted yesterday, head of the T&T Municipal Police Service (TTMPS) Wayne Mystar declined to comment as an investigation was underway. Snr Supt of the Port-ofSpain Division Raymond Thom has issued a special appeal for the public’s help. While he agreed that the weapons could not have gone missing without some level of cooperation by at least one Police Officer, he urged members of the public to come forward if they have any information on the missing arms and ammunition. (Excerpt from Trinidad and Tobago Guardian)

Instead, it provides a modular pathway within the same qualification framework, allowing students to obtain micro-credentials as they progress. Additional subjects are expected to be modularised during 2027 and 2028, while CXC officials indicated that the approach is also being developed for CAPE. 32,403 CSEC candidates absent Despite the improved overall performance, CXC expressed serious concern about the number of registered candidates who failed to appear for examinations. Manning disclosed that 32,403 CSEC candidates were absent, while another 3534 candidates were absent at CAPE. “For CSEC, it’s even more worrying,” she said, describing more than 32,000 candidates failing to turn up for examinations as an issue that education systems throughout the region needed to address. CXC surveys, she said, have found that some candidates deliberately stay away because they believe they are inadequately prepared. “This is not a reason to be absent. Just try,” Manning urged. A candidate who misses a required examination component may have no opportunity to receive a grade. CXC raised similar concerns about the non-submission of School-Based Assessments (SBAs). Manning distinguished between cases where candidates completed their SBAs but centres failed to submit them to CXC and cases where candidates themselves failed to complete the required work. She said non-submission by candidates was increasing and

warned that failure to complete an SBA, third paper or other compulsory component could result in a candidate being ungraded.

Exam irregularities increase CXC also recorded an increase in examination irregularities during the 2026 sitting. There were 128 reported irregularities, compared with 80 previously. The use of unauthorised devices represented the largest category, followed by collusion among candidates and the use of unauthorised material. For the first time, CXC also recorded the misuse of artificial intelligence as an examination irregularity. Manning said the council had already developed standards and guidelines governing the use of artificial intelligence in assessments and continued to encourage schools and education authorities to promote responsible use of the technology. Candidates found responsible for examination misconduct can have their grades cancelled or be disqualified. At the same time, CXC provided compassionate consideration to 359 candidates who encountered circumstances, including medical or other serious personal situations, which could otherwise have disadvantaged them. The Council also continued to provide special assessment arrangements for candidates requiring additional assistance, including extra time or other accommodations. Gender gap persists CXC’s figures also highlighted a continuing gender disparity as students progress through the regional education system. At CSEC, females account-

ed for 59 per cent of candidates, compared with 41 per cent males. The disparity widened at CAPE, where females represented 62 per cent of candidates and males 38 per cent. At the Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence (CCSLC), however, males represented 52 per cent and females 48 per cent. Manning noted that participation is much closer to equal at the primary level and said the widening disparity as students move through secondary and post-secondary education required closer examination by regional education authorities. Meanwhile, CXC reported continued growth in some of its other qualifications, including the Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ). Some 4977 candidates registered across 37 occupational areas for CVQs in 2026, up from 3719 candidates across 36 occupational areas the previous year. CXC said the expansion of its qualifications, increased use of electronic assessment and introduction of modular certification are intended to provide Caribbean learners with more flexible routes through education and into employment without compromising established academic standards. Wesley said CTEC represented a shift away from an assessment system in which students who had demonstrated significant learning could nevertheless leave without any certification of what they had achieved. “At CXC, we hold to the position that competence is competence, no matter how long it takes to achieve, and no matter the route by which it comes,” he said.

FRO

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026

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Around the World

UK “supports Ukraine 100%”, Burnham OILNEWS OIL NEWS says after Russia’s drone warning Oil closes at 3-week high as hopes of US-Iran peace deal fade

il prices settled at their highest level in more than three weeks on Tuesday after Iran said it would adopt a more offensive stance and the Strait of Hormuz would remain ‌closed, while the United States ruled out extending a ceasefire. Gains were limited, however, with Brent crude futures finishing up 15 cents, or 0.17 per cent, at US$91.02 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude futures closed up 44 cents, or 0.52 per cent, at US$84.94 a barrel. Both contracts closed at their highest since July 24. “To some extent, the market has muted movement to the daily headlines just due to the amount of noise since June with no real results,” said Darrell Fletcher, managing director of commodities at Bannockburn Capital Markets. “Covert or dark shipments slipping from the Strait of Hormuz seem to be more than the market expected ... adding to some buffering from higher prices,” Fletcher said. Two Chinese shipping giants also have started collecting oil cargoes outside the Gulf, according to industry executives, tanker trackers and brokers. While that has eased some supply concerns, vessel traffic through the strategic waterway remains in the single digits. The tally does not include vessels passing through the strait with their transponders switched off. (Excerpt from Reuters)

K Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said London will continue “to support Ukraine 100 per cent” after Moscow warned of “consequences” following confirmation that British-made drones were used in recent Ukrainian strikes in Russia. “We are not fair-weather friends; we will be there in Ukraine’s hour of need, and that won’t change,” he said. The Russian embassy in the UK earlier accused Britain of “deliberately opting for an escalation of the Ukraine crisis”, saying “the deeper its involvement in the conflict... the higher the price it will pay”. Kyiv has stepped up longrange attacks on Moscow and other Russian regions, targeting oil refineries and warehouses of the largest online

retailer Wildberries. Asked on Tuesday about the Russian threat, Burnham maintained that the UK was

“providing support so that Ukraine can defend itself, and that’s been the British position all the way through this

conflict, by previous Prime Ministers – it remains the case with me”. This is not the first time that Russia has warned the UK over its role in providing Ukraine with drone technology and Storm Shadow missiles. The Russian embassy said, “London’s actions will inevitably carry consequences for which it will have to answer,” but did not elaborate on the type of threat Moscow was considering. The latest phase of the war has directly affected Russia’s domestic fuel supplies and dented the Russian economy. The Kremlin has regularly singled out the UK – along with the US – for its role in arming and backing Kyiv politically and financially since the start of the war. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Trump says no talks planned with Iran; Tehran says Strait of Hormuz still shut

Liberia to take 1200 U deportees from US

S President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that no talks were taking place with Iran and insisted the Strait of Hormuz was open, contradicting Iran’s assertion that the critical waterway remained shut to ‌shipping. The receding prospects of a deal to end the nearly six-month conflict drove up oil prices again on Tuesday,

while stock markets sagged and borrowing costs for major economies, including the US, hit multi-decade highs amid concerns about the long-term inflationary and fiscal impact of the crisis. A temporary ceasefire agreement expired on Monday, and a senior Iranian official told Reuters that his country was moving to a “fully offensive” military posture

due to the diplomatic stalemate, though there were no reports of fresh strikes by either side on Tuesday. “There are no talks or conversations going on, or scheduled, with the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social. “The naval blockade remains in full force and effect. The Hormuz Strait is open and operating. All wa-

ter mines have been removed or detonated,” he added. The nearly six-month conflict, which began with joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran, has settled into a standoff, with Iran continuing to threaten shipping in the strait and Washington saying it could renew attacks if talks do not yield a longterm settlement. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Ebola outbreak in DRC now deadliest in country’s history

Migrants deported by the US walk to the bus upon the flight’s arrival at Ramon Villeda Morales International Airport

iberia will accept up to 1200 third-country deportees from the United States, the country’s Information Minister Jerolinmek Piah told reporters in the capital, Monrovia. The first group of 20 deportees is expected to arrive on Thursday, Piah told reporters on Tuesday. The country would be taking nationals from Africa, North and South America and the Caribbean. “The Government wants to emphasise that those being brought to Liberia are being received as guests of the Republic,” Piah said, adding they would “remain free to depart the country when they so desire.” The Trump administration has made agreements with at least 35 countries for accepting third-country deportees, according to Refugees International and Human Rights First, two groups tracking the deals. The Liberian deal would be for the largest number of deportees under those ar-

rangements so far. The US has sent approximately 22,000 persons to 26 countries they did not originate from as of early August 2026, according to the rights groups. Liberia and the US entered an agreement in 2025 that was made public in March 2026 and would ensure that asylum seekers and others needing protection would be able to stay in the country if deported there. The US has tried to convince courts to let it send Kilmar Abrego Garcia, an El Salvador native whose case has drawn national attention, to Liberia. As a reward for agreeing to accept Garcia in 2025, the Trump Administration at one point extended the validity of certain visas for Liberians from 12 to 36 months and committed US$124M for the country’s health services. The Liberia deportations agreement is being challenged by several lawsuits in the US (Al Jazeera)

he Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DCR) is now the deadliest in the country’s history, with at least 2325 persons dead, according to Government data, surpassing the toll from the 201820 outbreak. The DRC’s public health institute said confirmed cases had risen to 4945, including 101 detected in the previous 24 hours. The World Health Organization (WHO) has said the outbreak is on track to surpass West Africa’s 2014-16 Ebola outbreak as the biggest in history. The 2014-16 outbreak resulted in 28,616 cases

Health workers disinfect an ambulance at an Ebola treatment centre in Bunia

and 11,325 deaths across Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, according to WHO data. Six of DRC’s 26 provinc-

es have been affected, mainly those along the country’s north-eastern border. More than 3400 of the cases have been recorded in Ituri prov-

ince, where the outbreak was first reported. The latest numbers of confirmed cases of Ebola in the DRC have made this outbreak – the 17th in the country’s history – the fastest-growing in the known history of the virus. It took almost five months for the 2014-16 West Africa outbreak to reach 1000 deaths, compared with more than 2000 deaths in less than three months in this outbreak. There are no approved vaccines or treatments yet for the rare Bundibugyo strain of the virus that is responsible for the current surge in cases. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

US diplomat calls Israeli strikes on Syrian base “unnecessary escalation”

he US Ambassador to Turkey chastised Israel on Tuesday for carrying out airstrikes on an air base in Syria’s northern Idlib region that he called an “unnecessary escalation”. Israel has not acknowledged carrying out the strikes, but Syrian officials and state media said at least four strikes hit the Abu alDuhur Airbase Monday

night and Tuesday morning, causing damage but no casualties. In a post on X, US Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack said on Tuesday that the US was “deeply concerned that the confirmed Israeli airstrikes on Abu alDuhur Airbase” – which was used by the Syrian air force – “constitute an unnecessary escalation that does not

advance regional stability.” In a statement published Tuesday, Syria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs called the airstrikes an “unjustified act of aggression, a flagrant violation of Syria’s sovereignty, and a dangerous escalation”. Syria’s post-Bashar al-Assad Government “has neither adopted a predatory posture nor maintained proxy forces”, Barrack

wrote. “ It has, in fact, repeatedly indicated a preference for de-escalation with Israel.” “The United States continues to believe that restraint and engagement offer the more constructive course,” he added. “We encourage all parties to prioritise logical discourse over further military incidents.” (Excerpt from CBS News)

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026

ARCHIE

DAILY HOROSCOPES

(March 21-April 19)

Chill; take a little “me” time. Eliminate what’s causing you distress, and change your schedule to accommodate the projects and pastimes that make you feel good about yourself. A personal pick-me-up will encourage you to engage in an event that offers insight into unique ways to use your talents. If you mix business with pleasure, you’ll flourish. Commitment is apparent. Take a moment to contemplate the consequences before you act. Your energy will serve a better purpose if you jump into learning and finding out what you enjoy and who you want to spend your time with. A chance to change your professional direction or to acquire skills that can help you advance will be uplifting.

PICKLES

(April 20-May 20)

(May 21-June 20)

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

(July 23-Aug. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

Explore all avenues, and confront situations that require an adjustment before you carry on. Refuse to let the emotional situations unfolding around you deter you from distancing yourself from drama and dancing into the sunset. Choose the journey that appeals to you most, and live in the moment. Update your look, socialize and address meaningful concerns. Honesty begins with you. Rate yourself, consider your concerns and address issues that will give you the boost and confidence you need to live life by your rules. Pay attention to the people, places and pastimes that are uplifting, and spend more time satisfying your needs instead of taking care of everyone else’s. Be good and true to yourself. Pause, monitor what’s happening and resist temptation. The information you receive will be misleading. Pay attention to taking care of responsibilities that can ease stress and offer you some downtime to contemplate what you want to do next. Redistribute how and where you apply your time and effort. References will pay off in conversations. Managing details with precision will help you handle any unexpected changes you encounter. Look for the positive in everything and everyone, and you’ll navigate your way forward and toward something that is better for you. Patience will lead to prosperity, and tidying up loose ends will put your mind at ease. Making emotional purchases are apparent. Put your credit cards away, and avoid malls and places that tempt you to spend. You can have fun without going overboard if you stick close to home and plan a self-care day. Curling up with a good book or soaking in a hot tub will soothe your soul. Discipline and healing go together. Keep your thoughts to yourself. Expressing your opinion will draw you into something you will regret. Pay more attention to how you look and feel and how you handle your investments. Your highest return will come from making sure you have everything up to date. If you listen and observe, you’ll gain insight into what’s best for you. Consider your budget for self-help or lifestyle improvements, and pursue something that interests you. Engaging in physical activities or educational pursuits will improve your awareness about health. Changes at home or work may appear difficult at first, but the more you hone your skills, the more opportunities will come your way. Put yourself and your pursuits first. If you reach out to someone you lost touch with, you will rediscover some of the people, places and pastimes you miss. Exploring the past will help you revise your to-do list and encourage you not to give up on your dreams. Don’t let anger consume you when action is what’s needed. Protect your reputation and your physical well-being.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Take the road less traveled. Explore what’s new, exciting and available to you. A change will make you aware of what you’ve been missing. Focus on getting along with others and building strong and healthy relationships. Mixing the old with the new will bring the highest rewards. If you choose to be bipartisan moving forward, solutions will evolve. Romance is favored.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

Learn to use your insight to your advantage. By studying situations, you’ll begin to see patterns. Mingling and observing what others do and say will lead to positive personal changes that will draw interest from those who can help you transform your current lifestyle into something that brings you greater peace and understanding of what’s possible.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026

How Greaves, Matthews took centre stage this summer …to claim ICC Player of the Month honours

This is the first time that both the men’s and women’s Player-ofthe-Month awards have gone to West Indian players

Justin Greaves

wo players. Two very different paths to dominance. One powerful statement for West Indies cricket. Justin Greaves and Hayley Matthews have emerged as the latest standard-bearers for the West Indies, with both earning International Cricket Council (ICC) Player of the Month honours for July following outstanding performances that captured the attention of the global cricketing community. This was the first time two players from the region were recognised in the same month and only the fifth such instance since the inception of the awards in January 2021. For Greaves, the award caps a remarkable rise in the Test arena. The

against Pakistan. In the opening Test at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, he delivered a career-best match haul of seven wickets for 39 runs, including 5-27 in the first innings featuring five consecutive wicket-maidens, a feat achieved for the first time in the game’s longest format, as West Indies secured a commanding 90-run victory. “I have had a memorable month playing at home, and to have contributed with both bat and ball against Sri Lanka and Pakistan has been particularly special for me,” said Greaves after being made aware of the award. “Having impactful performances in Test cricket is always something I will cherish, especially when they come in front of our home fans.”

Barbadian all-rounder has established himself as an increasingly valuable member of the West Indies middle order while continuing to make telling contributions with the ball. His defining performance came against Sri Lanka at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua, where he produced a magnificent 180 in an innings lasting more than eight-and-a-half hours from 325 deliveries with 14 fours and two sixes. The marathon effort helped the West Indies secure a draw in the second test and a historic 1-0 series victory, their first Test series win over Sri Lanka in 26 years. Greaves was subsequently named Player of the Match and Player of the Series. He then carried that impact into the Test series

Greaves finished the summer with 294 runs at an average of 49 and 11 wickets as the fourth pace-bowling option in the team. For Matthews, July provided another chapter in an already extraordinary international career. The West Indies Women’s captain produced a spectacular performance during the team’s 3-0 ODI (One-Day International) series sweep of Ireland, scoring 265 runs at an average of 132.50 and earning Player of the Series honours. Her brilliance was evident from the opening match, when she struck a century and shared a record-breaking opening partnership with Realanna Grimmond as West Indies chased down Ireland’s 269

with ease. Matthews followed that with another Hayley century in the second ODI, Matthews becoming the first West Indies player to score centuries in consecutive women’s ODIs. The performances further underlined Matthews’ standing among the leading players in the women’s game. Already one of the most decorated players in the history of the ICC Player of the Month awards, Matthews, she continues to comm e a n bine prolific run-scorwhile, coning with her effectinues to tiveness as an set the all-rounder and t e m leadership at p o for the top level. h e West “I am thrilled t o t win the ICC Player of the Indies Women, combinMonth award once again,” ing consistency, power and said the five-time winner of leadership to produce perthe award. “It is just as spe- formances of international cial as the previous ones, significance. But the result is the and I hope it inspires me to keep raising my standards, same: two West Indies playcontributing to the West ers standing at the centre Indies, and winning more of the international cricket conversation. such awards in the future.” For Greaves and What makes the recognition of Greaves and Matthews, the ICC recogMatthews particularly sig- nition is more than a pernificant is the differing na- sonal achievement. It is another powerful remindture of their contributions. Greaves has emerged er of the quality, character as a match-winning force and match-winning ability in Test cricket, capable of continuing to emerge from changing the course of a West Indies cricket. (CWI) game with either bat or ball.

Lotto/Let’s Bet T10…

Shawn’s Mini Mart and Jaigobin Hotel back Essequibo Zone cash prizes T he Essequibo leg of the Lotto/Let’sBet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast received a major financial boost as corporate partners Shawn’s Mini Mart and Jaigobin Hotel officially came on board to sponsor the bulk of the cash incentive package for the zonal leg set for August 22 and 23. Under the new sponsorship backing, Shawn’s Mini Mart will fund the $500,000 first-place prize for the Essequibo Zone champions. Jaigobin Hotel will sponsor the $200,000 runner-up prize, alongside $50,000 payouts for each of the two losing semi-finalists. Scoop Ride Inc also maintains its tournament-wide commitment by rewarding $25,000 to each of the four

Highlighting the vital role of commercial partnerships in driving regional tapeball development, One Guyana T10 representative Yusuf Ali extended sincere appreciation to the tournament’s latest backers

losing quarter-finalists. Highlighting the vital role of commercial partnerships in driving regional tapeball development, One Guyana T10 representative

Yusuf Ali extended sincere appreciation to the tournament’s latest backers. “The backing from Shawn’s Mini Mart and Jaigobin Hotel underscores

the strong corporate faith in grassroots cricket across Essequibo,” Ali stated. “Their generosity ensures our players compete for meaningful financial re-

wards while delivering top-tier entertainment to local communities. We are deeply grateful for their partnership as we continue building momentum toward the national finals.” The regional showdown bowls off on Saturday, August 22, across four venues: Pomona, Affiance, Hampton Court, and the Anna Regina National Stadium. Action then shifts entirely to the Anna Regina National Stadium on Sunday, August 23, for the zonal finals starting at 14:30h. Admission is free to all venues, with organisers urging families and local fans to turn out in full force to support their respective communities.

The Essequibo victors will join earlier zonal champions Grillmaster Sip N Play All-Stars, who claimed the Berbice Zone title, and Mahdia (Movements Family), who prevailed in the East Bank/West Demerara Zone. Each zonal winner earns a crucial step toward defending home turf in the grand national championship on October 11. Following the conclusion of the Essequibo leg, the Lotto/Let’sBet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast will take a scheduled hiatus to accommodate the closing stages of the Caribbean Premier League before resuming on September 26 for the Georgetown/East Coast Demerara Zone.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Beharry U19 T20 Tournament…

BEI duo confident of winning it all …Dindyal hoping to send Annandale to final today

ollowing an exciting start to the playoff round in the Beharry Group National Under-19 Secondary Schools’ T20 tournament, Berbice Educational Institute (BEI) duo Brandon Grimmond and Luke Amsterdam are confident that their team can win it all. BEI pulled off a six-wicket victory last Sunday in Qualifier One, on the back of an all-round performance from Grimmond, including a five-for and 25 runs. Grimmond said about the performance after the game, “It’s very good for me to get that for our team cause most of our players aren’t here; they had a [club] game today. I think everyone did good in the field today, because we’re missing our main players for the team.” “Just bowl them out for, at least, less than 120, and we did very well. We did better than we expected,” Grimmond said, divulging their plan for the Qualifier game. He added about what they will need to polish up on ahead of the final, “I think we have to do better in the

Ruel Dindyal of Annandale Secondary in action

Berbice Educational Institute have already booked their place in the Beharry U19 final

fielding cause we dropped a few catches today.” On the other hand, BEI Captain Luke Amsterdam said about the clash with Abram Zuil, “The game was great. We didn’t expect it to be that of a small total for us. We were missing a lot of players, yes, mostly batters. So, we decided to go in with a bowling plan, bowl them out for less, and then we

chase it down.” “Me and Grimmond, we’re clubmates, so we know each other well – good running between the wickets. We were confident that we were going to make the score,” Amsterdam expressed, regarding their 57-run partnership in the chase. Quizzed about what it would mean for them if BEI

were to win the tournament, Amsterdam responded, “It would mean a lot, put our school up there, showcase our talent in our school. Yeah, that would feel wonderful.”

Annandale hunting final spot today

However, before the competition gets to the an-

ticipated final, the second finalist will need to be determined. Today, Annandale Secondary, who won Eliminator One on Sunday, and Abram Zuil Secondary, who lost Qualifier One, will clash for that spot. Reflecting on their victory on Sunday was Annandale Secondary’s Ruel Dindyal. “I think we could’ve do better in the batting, but I know for a fact that we would come out in the second innings and bowl good. After Akeem Persaud come on from the top end and he got those two wickets, then I started to see the hope that we would win today [Sunday],” Dindyal told this publication.

He said of his own performance, claiming a four-wicket haul, “When I see they were hitting the ball and getting the runs, I just came out and I was like, ‘I have to get wickets, cause I didn’t do as good with the bat.’” Dindyal turned his attention to today’s qualifier, stating, “I feel very confident going into the Qualifiers because our team, if everybody pulls their weight, we’re a very strong team, but again, nobody is perfect.” Abram Zuil and Annandale Secondary will meet in Qualifier Two today, Wednesday, August 19, at the Enterprise Community Centre Ground from 11:00h.

NTFGL Round 6… Botofago, Blueberry Hill secure Summer Super Cup victories Late-season charge by Prashad, Persaud,

Vijimoor tightens championship race

Another hard-fought battle unfolds at Bayroc as the Summer Super Cup continues (file photo)

otofago Football Club (FC) and Blueberry Hill FC recorded important victories as the Summer Super Cup 2026 continued at the Bayroc National Stadium in Linden on Saturday. Botofago FC edged Haynes Winner Connection 1-0, with Rodwell Wong scoring the decisive goal in the 29th minute. Wong’s strike came before halftime and proved enough to separate the two teams after an evenly contested encounter. Haynes Winner Connection were unable to find an equaliser in the second half as Botofago held firm defensively to secure maximum points. The victory came despite Winner Connection’s

efforts to get back into the contest following the interval, but Botofago maintained their advantage to claim a narrow win. In the other fixture, Blueberry Hill FC produced a strong second-half performance to defeat Bamia Fearless FC 3-1. Bamia Fearless FC made the brighter start, with Norlan Moses finding the back of the net in the third minute to give his side an early advantage. Blueberry Hill, however, responded before the break, with Mark Jacob scoring in the 16th minute to bring the teams level at 1-1 at halftime. The second half belonged to Blueberry Hill as they stepped up the pressure and were rewarded

with two further goals. Travis Morrison put Blueberry Hill ahead in the 50th minute before Kelvin Hentzer added another two minutes later to complete the scoring at 3-1. The result capped a productive match day for Blueberry Hill, while Botofago’s narrow victory also provided valuable points as the Summer Super Cup battle continues. With the competition attracting teams from across Linden and featuring a cash and prize purse of more than $4 million, the race for advancement remains intense as the tournament continues at the Bayroc National Stadium.

he National Top Flight Golf League (NTFGL) Tour Two championship race intensified dramatically on Sunday as Round Six, sponsored by Promotech Guyana Inc and Danny’s Auto Sales, produced outstanding performances at the Lusignan Golf Course (LGC). With the course returning to excellent playing condition following the wet season, golfers battled through a highly competitive round that saw Patrick Prashad emerge as the standout performer, while Patanjilee Persaud and Bala Vijimoor mounted significant challenges to the established leaders. Prashad delivered the round’s most impressive performance, carding a superb net 68 to capture overall honours and earn eight championship points. He was particularly dominant on the back nine, where he fired an exceptional net 32, securing another two points and completing a spectacular 10-point haul for Round Six. The victory proved crucial for Prashad, who moved into third place overall with 16 points, just two points behind championship leader Anand Persaud. Patanjilee Persaud also produced an excellent performance. He recorded a net 35 on the front nine, edging Bala Vijimoor on the tiebreaker to secure the front-nine honours

A victorious Patrick Prashad (right) alongside one of the sponsors, Maxim Mangra (second right), of Danny’s Auto Sales and LGC Member Videsh Persaud

and two points. Persaud continued his strong play over the remainder of the course, finishing with a net 69 to claim second overall and five additional championship points. His seven-point haul significantly strengthened his position in the Tour #2 standings. Vijimoor was equally competitive. After narrowly missing out on the front-nine honours, he remained composed and finished with a net 71, securing third place and three valuable championship points. Mike Mangal finished fourth with a net 73, earning two points, while Videsh Persaud secured the final championship point by finishing fifth. The results have created a thrilling situation at the top of the Tour Two standings. Anand Persaud leads with 18 points, followed closely by Maxim Mangra with 17, Patrick Prashad with 16, and

Joseph Szeplaki with 14. With only four points separating the top four players, the championship remains wide open heading into Round Seven. The next round is scheduled for Sunday, August 23, at Lusignan Golf Course, where the leading quartet of Anand Persaud, Maxim Mangra, Patrick Prashad and Joseph Szeplaki are expected to tee off together. The NTFGL Tour Two now heads into Round Seven, with the championship finely poised as the leaders look to hold their ground, while a determined group of challengers continues to close the gap. Round Six was made possible through the valued sponsorship of Promotech Guyana Inc and Danny’s Auto Sales, whose support continues to contribute to the growth and development of competitive golf in Guyana.

22 Pegasus Weekly Chess League begins Essequibo set for explosive Tapeball action with 7 opening-round winners in Lotto/Let’s Bet T10 Blast W GUYANATIMESGY.COM

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026

ith two zonal legs already in the books, the focus of the Lotto/Let’s Bet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast moves to Essequibo this weekend, August 22 and 23. Sixteen teams loaded with talent are set to clash across four venues for a coveted spot in the National Finals on October 11. The weekend action kicks off on Saturday, August 22, with opening fixtures spread across the Pomona Ground, Affiance Community Ground, Hampton Court Ground, and the Anna Regina National Stadium. Match play begins at 10:30h with Aurora Knight Riders facing GT Warriors at Pomona, Riverstown taking on Fibreglass Gladiators at Affiance, Shawn’s Mini Mart playing Mabaruma AllStars at Anna Regina, and Adventure Renegades going up against Northern Falcons at Hampton Court. Subsequent morning and afternoon ties will decide the quarter-finalists, with the day concluding after the second-round clashes at 15:30h. All roads then lead to the Anna Regina National Stadium on Sunday, August 23, where the action shifts entirely for the marquee matches.

Semi-final One bowls off at 14:30h, followed immediately by Semi-final Two at 16:30h. Ahead of the showpiece match, fans will enjoy an exhibition game be-

semi-finalist.

Furthermore, Scoop Ride Inc. continues its tournament-wide support by providing $25,000 to each of the four losing quarter-finalists. Admission is free to all grounds across both days, with a fult w e e n ly stocked bar, giveTrophy Stall aways, and famiJaguars and The Lotto/Let’s Bet One Guyana ly entertainment Trophy Stall T10 Tapeball planned to encourEagles at 18:30h, Blast moves to setting the stage age local communiEssequibo this ties to come out in for the Zonal Final weekend, August full support. under lights at 22 and 23 The Essequibo 20:00h. champions will earn In addition to playing for a place in the their place alongNational Finals, teams side Berbice Zone will battle for substanwinners Grillmaster Sip N Play All-Stars tial commercial prize and East Bank/ packages thanks to a West Demerara Zone strong line-up of corporate backers. champions Mahdia The Essequibo (Movements Family). Zone champions will After this weekend’s leg, the tournaclaim a $500,000 ment will observe a schedfirst-place uled hiatus for the closing prize funded by Shawn’s Mini Mart. stages of the Caribbean Jaigobin Hotel is sponsor- Premier League before reing the $200,000 runner-up suming on September 26, for prize, along with $50,000 the Georgetown/East Coast pay-outs for each losing Demerara Zone.

Pegasus Director Brandon Badal makes the ceremonial first move as organiser FIDE Master Anthony Drayton (background) looks on

he inaugural Pegasus Weekly Chess League got underway on Monday evening at the Oasis Building, Pegasus Hotel, with seven players moving to the top of the standings after the opening round. Ryan McKay, Raymond Sookdeo, Jessica Callender, Davion Mars, Keron Sandiford, and Sreebalakumar recorded victories, while Odinnie Reece received a point after being listed without an op-

Under the concept, players can return each week to contest one serious game without having to commit to an entire weekend of competition. The organisers have summarised the format as “One game. Every week. Real competition.” The opening round attracted participants from several professional and social backgrounds, including engineers, accountants, teachers, coaches, national chess players, students, entrepreneurs, a lawyer, a

St Lucia ready to make mark at Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors Championships

t Lucia is set to make its presence felt at the 2026 Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors Boxing Championships, with a four-member team arriving in Guyana determined to give a strong account of itself when competition gets underway tomorrow at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. The championships, hosted by the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), will run from Thursday through Saturday and feature young boxers from across the Caribbean. President of the St Lucia Boxing Association, David “Shakes” Christopher, said his country was pleased to be represented at an event he described as an important fixture on the regional boxing calendar. “In fact, it is a staple for many countries in the Caribbean, so I want to wish the GBA all the best and a successful tournament,” Christopher said. Leading St Lucia’s contingent will be 17-year-old Alex Nacham, who will compete in the 60kg category. He will be joined by Orlando Monrose, also 17, who will contest the 70kg division. Another 17-year-old, Daniel Martins, will compete in the 75kg category,

Keiron Sandiford (right) secured a win against Oluwadare Oyeyipo in the opening round of the newly launched Pegasus Weekly Chess League at the Oasis Building, Pegasus Hotel

St Lucia Boxing Association President David “Shakes” Christopher

while 13-year-old Nervon Mederick will box in the 33kg class. Christopher said St Lucia has consistently supported the championships over the years, although the island traditionally travelled with a larger delegation. He explained that the reduced team this year is largely due to the demands placed on Caribbean boxing programmes by a busy international calendar, with several countries coming off campaigns at the Central American and Caribbean Games and the Commonwealth Games. Christopher also acknowledged the financial challenges affecting several national associations, which

have made participation difficult for some countries. “We see ourselves as a boxing family: Guyana and St Lucia, so it was important for us to be represented,” Christopher said. St Lucia will join visiting teams from St Maarten, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, Curaçao, the Bahamas and Suriname at the championships. The tournament has been held in honour of Guyanese boxing great Winfield Braithwaite since 2016. Braithwaite won Commonwealth Games gold for Guyana in 1978 and remains an important figure in the country’s boxing history.

ponent. McKay defeated Martin, Callender overcame Owen Mickle and Sandiford secured a win against Oluwadare Oyeyipo. Sookdeo beat Sachin Beharry, Sreebalakumar defeated Annastaysha Marcano and Mars got past Jaden Taylor. Those six winners, along with Reece, are tied on one point after the first round. Oyeyipo, Beharry, Marcano, Martin, Mickle and Taylor remain without a point, with six rounds left in the seven-round season. The league is an initiative of Drayton’s Chess Club and is being hosted with support from the Pegasus Chess Club and the Guyana Chess Federation. FIDE Master Anthony Drayton, founder of Drayton’s Chess Club and the league, said the weekly competition was designed to provide an alternative to the traditional tournament format.

builder and an artist. According to the organisers, the league is intended to accommodate established competitors while providing a practical way for returning players, working professionals, students and other chess enthusiasts to remain active. Players can compete throughout the season or, subject to registration and availability, enter individual rounds. Plans are also in place to launch a Drayton’s Chess Club website, which is expected to become the digital home of the competition. The platform will provide access to results, standings, statistics and players’ competitive histories. An internal league rating system is also being developed to track performances across different seasons. The system will complement, rather than replace, FIDE or national ratings. Drayton also announced that a team competition is planned for 2027. Players

will continue to compete for individual points, ratings and prizes, while their performances may also contribute to teams representing clubs and other eligible organisations. The rules governing team composition, eligibility, scoring and the competition format will be announced later as organisers assess the league during its early seasons. Brandon Badal was specially acknowledged for supporting the initiative, while the organisers also thanked Pegasus, the Pegasus Chess Club, the Guyana Chess Federation, invited guests, members of the media and the inaugural participants. Round Two will be played on Monday, August 24, at the Oasis Building, Pegasus Hotel.

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Banks DIH’s Sonya Forrester

he elite horses for the feature race in the Guyana Cup were confirmed on Monday evening during the post position draw at the AC Hotel by Marriott at Ogle, East Coast Demerara (ECD). Defending champion and Master Z Stables talisman, Dataman was drawn in the first gate. The competition will be fierce on Sunday, August 23, at Rising Sun Turf Club, as Slingerz Racing Stables has lined up three horses for the feature, including former Guyana Cup champion Olympic Kremlin and debutants Olympic National and Vitruvian. The Master Z/Jumbo Jet Racing stables have also lined up a star-studded core, with Stat running in gate two, alongside Dataman. Js Racing Stables has also lined up new faces for the Guyana Cup, and the race will have five new horses lined up. The horses and their respective gates for the feature race at the Guyana Cup are Dataman, Stat, Frontline Warrior, Mapa do Brasil, Olympic Kremlin, Olympic National, Santorini, I’m Sam, Vitruvian and Sand Pipes. The post-position draw was also graced by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, and Minster of Tourism Susan Rodrigues. Both Ministers lauded the

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Defending champion Dataman among 10 top horses for Guyana Cup feature growth of the Guyana Cup and outlined the positive impact it brings to the sport and tourism sector. Minister Ramson was delighted with the legislation being passed, and he explained the passion and drive His Excellency, President Irfaan Ali, has shown in the sport of kings. Ramson Jr, divulging on the Government’s commitment to the development of

Committee Chairman Nasrudeen Mohamed Jr remarked at the event, “We’re now only days away from what we believe will be one of the biggest Guyana Cups we’ve ever hosted. The horses are here, the preparations are underway and they’re moving quickly, and the excitement across the country is building.” “I would like to thank the Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of

The chief sponsors, Banks DIH and CEO of Jumbo Jet Events and Nasrudeen Mohamed Jr (second from right), following the postposition draw

the sport, shared, “We also now have the commitment from our international partners, Jamaica and the UK, where we could advance the development aggressively. So, we’re only going to develop this industry in the way we would like to see it by having a strong partnership and a culture of cooperation. That’s the way it will happen; you have that commitment from us.” Meanwhile, Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing

Culture, Youth and Sport; Banks DIH; and all of our sponsors. And most importantly, our horsemen and horsewomen, without everyone working together, an event of this magnitude simply wouldn’t be possible,” Mohamed further stated. The organisers for the Guyana Cup have also presented plaques to Minister Charles Ramson and Stuart Gonzales for their dedication to the horse racing fraternity.

Gonzales was specially recognised for his contribution to the breeding industry. A total of 14 races will be running at this year’s Guyana Cup, and more than GY$66 million in cash and prizes will be paid out. The first race is set for a 9:00h start, sharp, at the Rising Sun Turf Club. Jagdeo Racing Stables have also added new horses to their roster, ensuring this year’s Guyana Cup will be an unforgettable one. The feature race, which will be the Banks Guyana Cup, will fetch a purse of GY$22 million. Highlighting this remarkable factor was Banks DIH’s Communications Executive Sonya Forrester, who spoke to the growth of the event. “Every single year we see, as a part of this process, this premier horse racing event gets bigger, better and bolder, and, of course, this year is no different. On August 23, $66+ million in prizes and, of course, the Banks Guyana Cup mile worth $22.5M, and that’s not just a number; it’s an indication of how far the sport has come and where it’s going,” Forrester shared at Monday’s post position draw. She added, “For Banks DIH Limited, being a part of this moment feels natural. Banks Beer and Coca-Cola have been on the rails with Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Committee for over 15 years now, and there is something special about what we see happening in this sport.”

Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr

General admission tickets are $5000, the VVIP experience is $25,000, and private VIP decks are $500,000. A brand new four-door SinoTruk pick-up will be up for the taking from the raffle exercise. The raffle ticket locations are located at Jumbo Jet office in Smyth Street, Js Supermarket, Js Outlet, and Poonai’s Pharmacy. The raffle ticket cost only $2000. This Guyana Cup will be one of significant difference, with the event being for the entire family. A kids’ zone

will be in place, and a host of prizes will be rewarded on the day. The Guyana Cup also has additional parking and more screens at the venue to offer a more visible and enjoyable race day. The races will be only a 45-minute drive away from Georgetown, and fans from across the Caribbean are expected to be in attendance to witness the most high-profile racing event in Guyana’s history.

The races for the Guyana Cup 2026 are:

Banks Guyana Cup (One Mile) – Total purse: GY$22,500,000 Peter Lewis Guyana Cup Sprint (5 ½ Furlongs) – Total purse: GY$7,500,000 Forrester’s Imported Derby (One Mile) – Total purse: GY$7,500,000 Mohamed’s Excavating Sir Balaji Derby (One Mile) – Total purse: GY$5,625,000 J’s Imported Juvenile Fillies Sprint (5 ½ Furlongs) – Total purse: GY$3,750,000 BM. Soat Locally Bred Dash (5 ½ Furlongs) – Total purse: GY$2,812,500 P Jagdeo E-Class (One Mile) – Total purse: GY$2,812,500 Jagmohan F-Class (One Mile) – Total purse: GY$1,875,000 ARONCO H-Class (One Mile) – Total purse: GY$1,875,000 C.I. H3 N.W.3 (One Mile) – Total purse: GY$1,875,000 Avinash Local Maidens (One Mile) – Total purse: GY$2,812,500 Big G’s J-Class (One Mile) – Total purse: GY$1,875,000 Garen Pro K-Class (One Mile) - Total purse: GY$1,875,000 Sawh L Class Sprint (One Mile) – Total purse: GY$1,875,000

Guyanese duo named in CWI High-Performance Camp

wenty-two of the Caribbean’s promising young female cricketers have been given an immediate opportunity to build on their performances in the recently concluded Rising Stars Women’s Under-19 Championship, as Cricket West Indies (CWI) steps up preparations for the International Cricket Council (ICC)’s Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup in 2027. Two Guyanese, Danielle Manns and Allia Henry, have been selected for the camp. The players have transitioned directly from the successful regional tournament into a two-week high-performance camp in Antigua, which began on August 17 and runs until August 29. The initiative is part of CWI’s deliberate approach to identifying, developing and preparing the next generation of West Indies women

Region 1’s Allia Henry has been called up to the Windies U19 Women’s Camp

cricketers for the demands of international competition. The Rising Stars Women’s Under-19 Championship, which concluded on August 15, provided CWI’s High-Performance team with an opportunity to

assess the region’s leading young talent in a competitive environment. Selection for the camp was based on a combination of on-field performances and technical assessments, age eligibility for the 2027 World Cup, tactical awareness, temperament and competitiveness, fitness and the overall balance and composition of the squad. The programme will focus on technical, tactical, physical and mental development, while providing the players with greater exposure to the standards, intensity, and expectations associated with progressing to the international level. CWI High-Performance Manager Dwain Gill said the immediate transition from regional competition into a high-performance environment was intentional and important to the players’ development. “The Rising Stars Championship gave us a

Guyana’s U19 Captain Danielle Manns has been called up to the Windies U19 Women’s Camp

valuable opportunity to see these players compete, respond to pressure and demonstrate their potential in a regional environment. We did not want that assessment process to end with the tournament. Bringing the selected players directly

into camp allows us to build on what we have seen, work more closely with them, and begin addressing the areas that will be critical to their progression. This is an important first step in building a group that can be competitive at the 2027 World Cup, while also developing players who can contribute to West Indies women’s cricket beyond the Under-19 level.” The camp will also extend beyond on-field development, continuing CWI’s broader commitment to preparing young cricketers for the demands of high-performance sport and professional cricket. Educational and development sessions will address areas relevant to their personal and professional growth. On the field, the players will work with several members of CWI’s high-performance coaching staff, led by Senior Women’s Assistant Coach Ryan Austin, along-

side Shane Dowrich, who has been part of the West Indies Women’s recent assignments, including the ICC T20 World Cup in England and Wales, and West Indies Academy Head Coach Ramesh Subasinghe. The camp participants are Eboni Brathwaite, Zaniyah Bruce, Sabriel Headley, Theanny Herbert Mayers and Jadaeya Holder of Barbados; Davehjah Brown and Brianna Plummer of Jamaica; CQuinya Dasent, Zara Skerritt, Leanga Warner and Aaliyah Weekes of the Leeward Islands; Kaela George and Jaeda Tyrell of the Windward Islands; Trinidad and Tobago’s Jessica Davis, Brianna Harricharan, Shriya Jairam, Sian Ramnarine, Samara Ramnath, Jannah Mohammed and Amrita Ramtahal; while Guyana is represented by Danielle Manns and Allia Henry.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026

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

Farmers score CPL tickets in UPL countrywide promotion …10 selected for Guyana-Trinidad clash; another 10 to head to India for IPL 2027

en farmers from across Guyana have been selected for a Caribbean Premier League (CPL) experience as part of a countrywide promotion by agricultural company UPL Limited aimed at giving back to farmers who have supported its products. The farmers were selected on Tuesday during a draw held at the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) substation at Lesbeholden, Black Bush Polder, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne). Entries for the promotion were collected from farmers across the country through retailers supplied by Caribbean Chemicals. The coupons were brought together at Black Bush Polder for the selection of the 10 winners. UPL Country Manager for Guyana and the Caribbean, Deoram Prahalad, said the initiative forms part of the company’s wider community-centred programme and will see the selected farmers attending a CPL match between Guyana and Trinidad. “This year, we will be taking 10 lucky farmers who are using Gynexa to CPL here in Guyana, where they would witness a game between Guyana and Trinidad. We would also give them accommodation and some gifts during that period of time, where they will spend one night in Georgetown,” Prahalad explained. The CPL promotion is only one phase of the company’s plans to reward farmers. Prahalad disclosed that another draw will be held next year to select 10 farmers for a

trip to India to attend matches in the 2027 Indian Premier League (IPL). UPL also intends to select another 10 farmers to attend CPL matches in Guyana in 2027. “So, this is UPL; we are giving back to the farmers who have been supporting us throughout the years,” he said. Explaining why the company took Tuesday’s draw to Black Bush Polder rather than hosting it in Georgetown, Prahalad said UPL wanted the activity to be held among the farming communities it serves. In 2024, the company took 12 farmers from Guyana, Trinidad and Suriname to India, with the draw for that initiative held in Region Five. This time, UPL decided to move the activity to Region Six. “It doesn’t make sense to do these draws in Georgetown. It has to come to where farming is actually happening. And in Black Bush, we have been having a lot of support from the farmers,” Prahalad said. He added that farmers in the area have been using the company’s products and reporting positive results. However, he stressed that Tuesday’s promotion was not restricted to Black Bush Polder or Region Six. “What we did is that these boxes, or this promotion, is countrywide to all the retailers where Caribbean Chemicals distribute their products. So, what we have done is that we have collected the coupons that were deposited by the farmers in all the rice-growing and agricultural regions,” he explained.

A glimpse of Tuesday’s draw to reward 10 farmers with a CPL experience

The UPL official said the initiative reflects the company’s broader policy of involving its partners and customers in major sporting and other international events. UPL previously took partners from around the world to the last two FIFA World Cups, and Prahalad said cricket was a natural choice for its programme in Guyana. “Guyana being a country with its base and the national sport being cricket, we thought it best to take some of the farmers to get them involved and let them look at the cricket, giving back to the community,” he said. UPL Limited, formerly United Phosphorus Limited, is an India-based multinational company headquartered in Mumbai. It manufactures and markets agrochemicals and other agriculture-related products and operates in more than 130 countries. Apart from its promotional activities,

Prahalad said UPL is also a stakeholder in the crop insurance programme for rice farmers in Guyana. He said the initiative, which began in 2025, provides participating rice farmers with insurance coverage at no cost to them and is intended to protect against risks associated with excess or deficient rainfall. According to Prahalad, UPL partnered with Philip Morris International and the Government of Guyana, through the Guyana Rice Development Board and Ministry of Agriculture, to implement the programme. He said 4433 farmers were covered during the November 2025 crop, with the premiums paid on their behalf. The programme is continuing, with Prahalad reporting that approximately 4000 farmers have been covered for the current season. (G-4)

Godette strikes gold at Junior CAREBACO Championships

Anjaneysa Godette claimed gold in the U13 Girls’ Singles

njaneysa Godette, on Tuesday, capped off Guyana’s campaign at the CAREBACO Junior Badminton Championships in Jamaica with a Gold medal performance in the Girls’

Under-13 Singles event. Godette booked her spot in the gold medal match with a 21-8, 21-10 victory over Brea Grant of Jamaica on Monday. In the feature game on Tuesday, Godette downed

another Jamaican opponent in Aaqilah Akuri 2-1 to clinch gold. After missing out on the first set 15-21, Godette rebounded well and went on to take the next two sets 21-9, 21-10. The gold medal comes on the heels of a U13 Mixed Doubles bronze she earned alongside compatriot Joel Rambiriche the day prior. The duo secured their spot in the mixed doubles semi-final by virtue of a 21-18, 21-13 victory over Jamaican duo Kai Ye and Wynter Zhang in the quarter-finals. However, that semi-final match saw the Guyanese pair going down to Barbados’ Siraj Brathwaite and Zaria Mayers 16-21, 17-21, but as is the case in most racquet sports, the duo secured bronze for reaching the semis. The same was the case for Rambiriche in the U13 Boys’ singles as he missed out

on a spot in the final, falling to Liam Bruce of Barbados, 3-21, 5-21, in the singles semi-final, thus capturing bronze. Rambiriche had assured himself of, at least, a bronze medal when he overcame Jamaica’s Kai Ye, 2116, 21-17, in the quarter-finals. Additionally, Rambiriche had teamed up with Trinidad and Tobago’s Neo Gajadhar for the U13 Boys’ doubles, in which they claimed another bronze as their campaign ended in the semi-final round. The Guyana Badminton Association (GBA) sent a seven-member team to the championships in Jamaica, which also comprised Christoper Jordan, Chioke Nurse, Ruel Rambiriche, Nicholas Pollard and Percival Chester. Senior National Champion Priyanna Ramdhani performed the duties as Coach while Sonia Bachir served as Team

Godette and Joel Rambiriche combined for bronze in the U13 mixed doubles

Manager. The National Junior team, in anticipation of the competition, were trained by international coach Kartikey Gund of India in the weeks leading up

to the competition. The GBA has contracted Gund for a sixmonth stint to work with the country’s Badminton players, a move that has already paid dividends for the sport locally.

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