Icon of Caribbean identity, Dave Martins, laid to rest
President, Dr. Irfaan Ali paid final respects to legendary musician David Anthony Martins, on Tuesday, during a private funeral service at the Kaashi Dhaam Crematorium, Ruimzeight, West Coast Demerara.
Remembered as an “Icon of Caribbean Identity”, President Ali said that Martins’ legacy will continue to form connections with generations to come through his music, selfless contributions to the cultural sector and his ability to foster national unity
“In celebrating his life, we honour the footprints he has left on our culture, his words that will continue to inspire and his melodies that will never fade from our collective consciousness. Dave Martins is a very special and irreplaceable part of our nationhood,” President Ali said (Office of the President photos)
aggressive plans in place to target weak subject areas, Education Minister affirms
QC, Anna Regina boys each cop 23 Grade One passes at CSEC
QC girl secures most Grade One passes at CAPE
Guyana’s hinterland transformation… $100M to support CDCs from carbon credit payment
–– over $9B injected into Amerindian Development between 2023 and 2024
–– additional support for sports development, Dr. Jagdeo says
–– Prime Minister Phillips says
QC, Anna Regina boys each cop 23 Grade One passes at CSEC
By Feona Morrison
STUDENTS from across Guyana have demonstrated exceptional academic performances at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE).
Preliminary results from the regional ex-
aminations administered by the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) were released on Tuesday by the Education Ministry.
This year, three male students—one from Queen's College (QC) in Georgetown and two from Anna Regina Secondary School on the Essequibo Coast—have set a remarkable standard by
- QC girl secures most Grade One passes at CAPE
successfully achieving 23 subjects each. The top performers are: Rudranauth San -
kar and Pradesh Dwarka of the Anna Regina Secondary School and Dave Chowtie of
Queen’s College. Sankar wrote 24 subjects and received TURN TO PAGE 4
Rudranauth Sankar Pradesh Dwarka
Dave Chowtie Chitra Parbu Sohail Mohamed
Randhir Toney Gevasha Harpaul Bomeka Singh Venisha Lall
$100M to support CDCs from carbon credit payment
- over $9B injected in Amerindian Development between 2023 and 2024 - additional support for sports development, Dr. Jagdeo says
THE sum of $100 million in carbon credit revenues has been set aside this year to support Community Development Councils (CDCs), underscoring the government’s commitment to Amerindian and hinterland development.
Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo made the announcement when he addressed Amerindian leaders on Day Two of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference, being held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).
These CDCs, which are under the purview of the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, are supported by the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, and were not part of the 242 villages that benefitted from the $4.7 billion carbon credit funds disbursed last year.
Dr. Jagdeo highlighted that several councils have requested to benefit from the allocations this year; however, the government has recognised that it would be unfair for the 242 villages to receive less than what they got in 2023.
“We decided that we will
Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
stick with the 242 villages, but we will set aside another $100 million for those communities. Some of them are not villages; they’re run by CDCs. And some are not fully Amerindian, but they will get small grants,” the vice-president assured his audience.
He further underscored, “We want to be fair, but we did not want to dilute the amount that you [established
villages] got last year.”
The vice president expounded heavily on the benefits of the carbon credit programme, which is facilitated through the Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, highlighting that within the two years of disbursement, more than $9 billion will be injected into these villages.
The LCDS 2030 was initially developed under former
President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, and was later expanded by the current administration, following national consultations from October 2021 to July 2022. It was agreed by the NTC that 15 per cent of the total revenues generated would be directly invested into the economies of these villages.
Guyana entered into a multi-year agreement in 2022 with global energy giant,
Hess Corporation, which will purchase 30 per cent of the high-quality carbon sequestered by the nation’s trees over ten years.
In 2023, Guyana received its first carbon payment of US$150 million, of which sum, US$22.5 million (G$4.7 billion) was disbursed to 242 Indigenous villages. These resources are currently funding around 811 projects catering to sectors such as tourism, agriculture, infrastructure, industrial arts, and youth empowerment.
This year, villages will receive a notable increase in their carbon credit allocation totalling $4.84 billion, which, according to Dr. Jagdeo, will be disbursed by next week. This massive sum represents a 26.5 per cent increase from the initial 15 per cent.
“We reduced the government’s amount that we were going to use for adaptation measures. A lot of them will be invested back into Amerindian communities,” the Vice-President underscored.
Furthermore, there will be additional support for sport development, with every village set to receive an additional $1 million to enhance sport development by
improving sporting facilities.
Last year, around 200 villages received support, and have expended monies on improving their facilities, thereby empowering youths through sports.
Additionally, he assured attendees at the conference that newly-elected Toshaos and those being reelected will continue to be employed under the part-time job initiative, providing them with an extra stream of income.
Meanwhile, he pointed out that $10 billion has been invested by the government in improving hinterland roads, while $20 billion will be expended on constructing four state-ofthe-art hospitals in Regions One (Barima-Waini), Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo). These hospitals will be constructed in the villages of Moruca, Region One; Kamarang, Region Seven; Kato, Region Eight; and Lethem, Region Nine.
The government remains steadfast in its endeavour to ensure fairness and unfaltering support to these villages, with face-toface interactions planned
QC, Anna Regina boys each...
23 Grade One passes and a Grade Two pass; Chowtie completed 29 subjects and received 23 Grade One passes and six Grade Twos; and Dwarka wrote 26 subjects and attained 23 Grade Ones and three Grade Two passes. Other high achievers with the highest num-
ber of Grade Ones are QC’s Brianna Sobers, who wrote 25 subjects and received 20 Grade Ones and five Grade Twos; Randhir Toney of Anna Regina Secondary, who sat 26 subjects and received 19 Grade Ones and seven Grade Twos; and Venisha Lall of Anna Regina Secondary, who wrote 29 subjects and received
18 Grade Ones, eight Grade Twos, and three Grade Threes.
Other top CSEC performers include: Sohail Mohamed (New Amsterdam Secondary); Makenna Johnny (Queen’s College); Anaaya Jain (Queen’s College); Chitra Parbu (Saraswati Vidya Niketa); Bomeka Singh (Anna Regina Secondary); Gevasha Harpaul (Anna Regina Secondary); Chitra Ramdhal (Berbice High School); Nyadesh Seecoomarie (J.C Chandisingh Secondary); Bhawani Persaud (Saraswati Vidya
Niketa); and Dhanpal Singh (Saraswati Vidya Niketa).
Additionally, Aniya Couchman from Queen's College has emerged as a top performer, securing the highest number of Grade One passes at CAPE. She copped 11 Grade One passes. QC’s Latiesha McArthur and Omari Holder of St. Stanislaus College each secured eight Grade Ones.
Gabriella Roberts and Arthur Roberts from Queen's College, Jenna Hoosein from Saraswati Vidya Ni -
ketan, Sheridan Dyal from Queen's College, Makaila Henry from Queen's College, and Korphiena Stephen from Queen's College are among the other top CAPE performers. While CXC is yet to officially announce the overall top students, these preliminary results reflect the hard work, dedication, and academic excellence of Guyanese students. The anticipation surrounding the announcement of the official results reflects the competitive nature of these examinations and the
prestige associated with being named a top student in the Caribbean. Some 721 students from 13 secondary schools and four private institutes wrote CAPE this year. The overall passing percentage was 93 per cent and entrants were offered units in 33 subjects.
Grades One through Grade Five are regarded as passing grades at CAPE. The CSEC exams were written by 11,612 candidates. For Grade One to Grade Three, the pass rate was 67.3 per cent.
Omari Holder
Aniya Couchman
Gabriella Roberts
Jenna Hoosein
Mixed results recorded at CSEC, CAPE
- despite teachers strike at the most crucial times of preparation for students - aggressive plans in place to target weak subject areas, Education
BASED on preliminary results from the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC), the Ministry of Education has reported that mixed results were recorded for this year’s Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Exam (CAPE).
This was highlighted by Chief Education Officer (CEO) Saddam Hussain during his presentation of those results at a ceremony held at the Queen’s College Auditorium.
According to Hussain, for CAPE this year, 721 students wrote various units from 13 secondary schools and four private centres across the country, as compared to last year when 701 candidates wrote the exams.
The overall pass rate, which means students attaining between Grades One to Five at CAPE, is 92.57 per cent, which is seen as stable, since last year’s pass rate stood at 93 per cent.
In terms of CSEC, Hussain said a total of 11,612 students wrote the exams; this represents a slight reduction from the 12,108
students in 2023.
He said that an analysis of the 2024 preliminary results has revealed that the overall pass rate for CSEC is 67.23 per cent, while it was 67.34 last year.
“We recorded improved performances in 12 subjects, while seven subjects remained constant; it did not change. Outstanding performances were recorded in seven subjects, where 90 per cent of the students gained Grades One to Three,” Hussain said.
However, percentage decreases were seen in the two most important subject areas, namely English Language and Mathemat -
Minister affirms
ics. In English, there was a decline from 72 per cent to 69 per cent in the pass rate, while Mathematics recorded a pass rate of 31 per cent.
Referencing areas where outstanding performances were recorded, Hussain said: “Agriculture Science, the double award with 98.85 per cent; Electronic Document Preparation and Management (EDPM) with 93.1 per cent; Theatre Arts with 98.98 per cent; and one that is close to my heart, family and resource management
with 91.18 per cent.” INTERVENTION
Minister of Education Priya Manickchand, in her remarks, said a teachers strike occurred at one of the most crucial times in the children’s preparation for these exams.
“I’m really pleased to say that even with that harshness and shock in the system, we did not, because of measures the ministry took to lessen the impact of that strike, we didn’t do as badly as someone sitting objectively trying to anal -
tervention to ascertain where the problem lies, and work along with schools, while also ensuring that students are provided with all the necessary equipment and tools.
She said that they have looked at schools that have been recording lower grades in Mathematics, and with that, will launch monitoring in some 50 of those schools to ensure that teachers are teaching topics, and students are understanding them.
yse pre-results what we would have done,” she said.
Against this backdrop, Manickchand added that while Guyana dropped in Mathematics by three percentage points, the Caribbean, overall, dropped by seven.
The Education Minister told the gathering that the ministry is set to roll out an aggressive Mathematics in -
“So, we are doing 50 of those schools where there will be monitors going into those schools to make sure teachers are teaching the topics and children are understanding those topics, so that next year we won’t have space to hold children here for 14 and more Grade Ones. And I firmly believe this is going to produce better results,” Minister Manickchand said.
Minister of Education Priya Manickchand
Chief Education Officer Saddam Hussain (Japheth Savory photos)
Vital Contributions
IN a bold and commendable move, Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali recently announced an increase in the percentage of carbon credit revenues allocated to Indigenous villages from 15% to 26.5%.
This decision, unveiled during the 2024 National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference, marks a significant milestone in recognising and rewarding the critical role that Guyana's Indigenous Peoples play as stewards of the forests.
For generations, Indigenous communities in Guyana have been the unsung guardians of the country’s lush, irreplaceable forests. Their traditional knowledge
and sustainable practices have preserved one of the world’s most intact tropical rainforests.
In return for their stewardship, they have now been promised a greater share of the financial benefits derived from carbon credits, a system that monetises the crucial role forests play in sequestering carbon dioxide, and mitigating climate change.
The decision to boost the carbon credit payout from 15% to 26.5% is not just a financial adjustment, but a profound acknowledgment of the vital contributions of Indigenous communities. By prioritising these funds, the government is not merely addressing financial
disparities, but reinforcing a deep respect for the Indigenous Peoples’ role in forest conservation.
The Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, a hallmark of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government, has set a precedent for integrating environmental stewardship with economic benefits.
The agreement with Hess Corporation, which secures substantial financial returns from carbon credits, illustrates the alignment of national interests with global environmental goals. This initiative not only enhances Guyana's position in the international carbon market, but also underscores a model
for how developing nations can leverage their natural resources responsibly.
Moreover, the broader implications of this policy extend beyond mere financial compensation. By channeling carbon credit revenues into Indigenous villages, Guyana is fostering development that respects and integrates local knowledge and needs.
This funding supports over 800 transformative projects, from infrastructure to agriculture, reflecting a commitment to holistic and inclusive growth. These projects are not just symbolic, but transformative, driving real change in education, health, and economic opportunities within these communities.
The NTC Chairman, Derrick John aptly highlighted the significance of this funding in transforming ideas into reality. Historically, Indigenous leaders often faced barriers due to a lack of resources, but the current revenue influx is enabling them to bring their visions to life. John’s call for accountability and transparency in the utilisation of these funds is crucial. It ensures that the financial benefits translate into tangible improvements in community well-being and development.
However, while this financial increase is a substantial step forward, it is imperative to maintain momentum, and continue
refining mechanisms for effective fund distribution and project implementation. The increased payout must be coupled with rigorous monitoring to ensure that the funds achieve their intended impact, and that projects are managed with integrity and inclusivity.
As Guyana continues to navigate the complexities of climate finance and sustainable development, this initiative stands as a model for integrating environmental and social justice. The world would do well to observe and learn from Guyana’s progressive approach to valuing and empowering its Indigenous custodians.
The glory of Dave Martin’s story
Dear Editor,
Short, sweet and simple, the residents from Region Three, sympathise with Guyana’s loss, Dave Martin: A humble hero, who humored the world with the hem and haw of his and hers from the Caribbean.
“The Glory Of Dave Martin's Story”
Lovingly, they called him Dave, He was such a Guyanese crave. We have to historically save, The folklore songs, to us, he gave.
Guyana’s great son, David Martin, His memories will be filed in a bin. He made music even from a tin, Telling story about fish and fin.
Some addressed him as David, To all Guyanese, he was related. His teasing lyrics, all locally slated, The picture of the Caribbean, he painted.
Oh, what a funny tale he told on cricket, Poised in defense of his home wicket.
Dave’s guitar, wacked so witty and wicked, But his tongue and twang, not to be twisted.
Rum and coke, coconut water with gin, The man was always not out, with his foot in.
On any subject or object, he could stick and pick a pin, With sentiment and a sweet smile, he didn’t salt soap nor sin.
Born at Hague, bred as a Demerara kid, As a country boy, everything he did. But the bigger picture, he quickly bid, Talents with the Tradewinds, he never hid.
Writing and singing, Dave was brilliant and brave, Society and congeniality, he ploughed a way to pave. Words of wisdom, like a washing Essequibo wave, With a prince or pauper, he knew just how to behave.
Dave loved Berbice, their Molson Creek and Crabwood
Creek,
Venturing freely from Bonasika Creek to Marudi Creek. His preference and taste for Kaieteur Fall over Niagara Fall,
Kept his Nation’s head high, proudly walking tall.
Guyana’s borders, neighbors tried to claim and rupture, Not a blade of grass nor one curass, came Dave’s suture.
Structure with rhyme and rhythm, struck with a culture, Generations past and present, will provide for the future.
Dave and the Tradewinds stayed and played, at many an Inn, Custom and tradition not to lose, nor a competition or race to win.
And so the story goes, with jamoon and our Pomeroon so certain,
Dave Martin’s honeymoon, in Guyana, down came, the final curtain.
Yours respectfully, Jai Lall
Portrayal of a poultry crisis in Guyana is misleading
Dear Editor, RECENT claims by MP and Shadow Minister of Agriculture, Vinceroy Jordan, alluding to a poultry crisis in Guyana, as reported in Stabroek News on July 29, 2024, have been largely overstated.
Jordan alleges that hundreds of farmers are experiencing losses due to a suspected viral disease, Inclusion Body Hepatitis, and criticises the Ministry of Agriculture for remaining silent. However, these assertions fail to accurately represent the situation and undermine the efforts of the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA).
Who are these hundreds of farmers? The opposition is extremely habitual when it comes to manufacturing figures and numbers and in this case, they could not provide one shred of evidence to back their claims.
While issues in poultry farming are not uncommon globally, the GLDA is effectively managing Guyana's poultry industry.
The authority conducts regular monitoring and testing to ensure the health of poultry stocks and has protocols in place to address any potential outbreaks.
As of now, the GLDA reports that the incidence of disease remains within manageable levels and that
there is no widespread crisis. It was only last year that President Irfaan Ali announced that over 2.5 million single shot vaccines were to be imported to manage the said disease, that was taking a proactive approach. I refer to an article dated the 7th July 2023 in Demerara Waves.
I want to remind the opposition that in 2016 hundreds of farmers suffered losses to their poultry and at that time, they more or less rubbished that there was any outbreak despite one farmer in Berbice recording that he lost 800 chickens to what they dubbed as "a mystery disease".
Under the Ministry of Agriculture then, they concluded that there was no outbreak but these farmers suffered huge losses and shared their stories, those were real stories not made up numbers. Farmers were never compensated following the loss as well. So the opposition and their ridiculous assertions and manufactured issues should be questioned at all times.
Guyana produces approximately 30 million pounds of chicken annually, with the GLDA ensuring that hatchery practices adhere to international standards. The authority has implemented measures to enhance biosecurity and improve hatchery conditions, reducing the risk
of disease transmission.
The GLDA has a comprehensive plan to tackle any suspected outbreaks. This includes rapid response teams, increased surveillance, and collaboration with international veterinary bodies to contain and address any disease threats promptly. Training sessions for farmers on best practices in biosecurity are also part of ongoing efforts.
The opposition, including figures like Jordan, has historically criticised the Ministry of Agriculture, often ignoring the progress made under Minister Zulfikar Mustapha. The ministry continues to implement robust agricultural policies, supporting farmers and improving food security.
The policies are so robust that we are producing our own livestock feed with the vast production of corn and soya which will pave the way to being self-sufficient by 2025. Self-sufficient in a sense that local feed consumption will be ramped up throughout the country.
The portrayal of a poultry crisis in Guyana is misleading. The GLDA's proactive measures and strategic plans demonstrate its capability in maintaining the health and sustainability of the poultry industry. It's essential to acknowledge the strides made by the Ministry of Agriculture
rather than focusing on unfounded criticisms.
The sector remains resilient and
well-managed, ensuring stability and growth in Guyana’s agricultural land -
Yours
scape.
sincerely, Derrick Jones
Refugees: Can the human mind be understood?
ON the first day of my West Indian history class at UG as freshman in 1974, the lecturer, Dr. Brian Moore, made some welcoming remarks and warned us not to expect any A- grade because he doesn’t give A- grades. He explained that he had to work hard for what he earned so don’t expect any generosity from him.
The class went into an uproar and three of us became the most vocal protestors – former Chancellor of the Judiciary, Carl Singh, Francis Drakes, who has changed his name
to Kimani Nihusi and is now a published historian and me. We took our protest to the Vice Chancellor, Denis Irving, and Moore was reassigned. What Moore did was not easy to fathom but it is a normal occurrence that some find hard to accept. It is regarded as a psychological complexity but the Brian Moore syndrome is as common as any flaw in Homo sapiens. In relation to ethnic denial of one’s culture, that is even more difficult to comprehend. The academic world offers an
intellectual explanation for self-hate but still it is a line fault in humans that appear impossible to accept.
We rejected Moore’s admission that he does not give A-grades because he had it difficult in life because we thought his attitude should have been the opposite. When you had it hard in life, it compels you to help others because it is in line with the motto that was born when civilization was born – help your fellow man.
You appreciate the value of freedom when your
freedom is taken away. You fight for other people’s freedom because you know what it was like to have lost your freedom. You want to bring others out of poverty because you know what it is like to be hungry without any light at the end of the tunnel.
But sadly we live in a world where humans behave so selfishly that you know that the mind is impossible to understand. I buy Gilbakka from the fish pond at Bourda Market. So last month, I was amazed at how efficient this Venezuela guy was in his chores.
He cut and washed the fish in seconds. So I turned to the owner and said that if it was a Guyanese you would never see such alacrity. I was floored when the woman said to me that market colleagues are cussing her down for employing Venezuelans.
You would drop dead if you know the prominent citizens who are against Venezuelans coming to Guyana. And don’t get apoplexy when I tell you that every one of them has children and spouses who are citizens of either Canada or the US.
Forbes Magazine has listed Guyana as the number one country, per capita
that sends more citizens to other countries than any other nation in the world. How with that statistic could any Guyanese want to deny entry to people fleeing their countries to come to Guyana to have a better life? How do you explain such a mind?
How do you explain the mind of Suella Braverman, Pretti Patel, James Cleaverly, Rita Panahi, Dilan Yesilgoz and others? Let’s tell you about them. Dilan Yesilgoz was brought to Holland as a small child when her parents fled Turkey and got refugee status in Holland. Now a powerful politician in Holland, she is anti-immigrant.
The parents of Pretti Patel, Suella Braverman and Rishi Sunak of the former UK Conservative Government came to the UK as Indian migrants. They came to the UK without any assets. All three when in government passed legislation to reduce immigration considerably, especially from India, James Cleverly, born in the UK to an African woman, passed legislation when he was Home Secretary in the former Conservative Government in the UK to curtail immigration. You now have to be working for 38,000
pounds in order to sponsor your spouse. But when Cleverly’s father brought over his married wife from Sierre Leone, he wasn’t earning even half of that amount.
Rita Panahi is one of the most known television anchors in Australia. Her parents escaped the Iranian Revolution in 1978 and sought refugee status in Australia. Ms. Panahi is anti-immigrant. The point is that if the White immigration ministers in the UK, Holland and Australia did not want non-white immigrants into their countries, Patel, Braverman, Sunak and Cleverly would never have reached where they are today.
One of the known television personalities in the US is Fareed Zakaria, a brown-skin immigrant from India. Zakaria said he has endured more vicious racism from nonWhite people than any White person. How do you explain this inverse self-dislike? I guess that is left to another column.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
Top CSEC, CAPE performers bask in joy, optimistic about the future
THE air was filled with excitement and relief as the top performers of the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) exams and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) received their preliminary results, on Tuesday.
For many of these students, the countless hours of study, late nights, and determination had finally paid off. The young scholars, are now basking in the joy of their achievements, while eagerly looking forward to the bright futures that lie ahead.
Among the celebrated achievers is Queen’s College’s Aniya Couchman, who has emerged as the top performer, securing the highest number of Grade One passes at CAPE.
For 19-year-old Couchman, her academic journey has been challenging yet ful-
filling. “I feel very happy to know that all my hard work paid off. I mean, I was very nervous for these results, but it's good to know that the culmination of all my hard work led up to this,” she said. She now has plans to pursue studies in computer engineering at a top overseas university.
In the 2022 CSEC examinations, Couchman placed 17th nationally and secured the top six ranking at her school, making her one of the nation's best performers.
Meanwhile, Dave Chowtie of Queen's College is among the three males who secured the most Grade One passes at CSEC, distinguishing himself as a high achiever.
He wrote 29 subjects and received 23 Grade One passes and six Grade Twos. He has a passion for the sciences and envisions a future in medi-
cine, as he intends to become a neurosurgeon.
The young man shared his preparation strategy for the examinations.
“I firstly prepared by deciding that I wanted to write 29 subjects. Then my teachers helped me to get my School Based Assessments (SBAs) out of the way early so that I had a lot of time to study. But I did experience challenges. The morning for some exams, I found myself studying for those exams. I had my friends… we all worked together during this time.”
In 2019, Chowtie shared the top position with a girl at the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA). Pradesh Dwarka of the Anna Regina Secondary School is equally elated about his achievement.
Dwarka wrote 26 CSEC subjects and attained 23 Grade Ones and three Grade
Two passes. He discussed the extensive preparation for the examinations, starting from Grade Nine.
He expressed: “I worked really hard and ensured that I did everything that I’m supposed to do. I want to become a civil engineer. I have a love for infrastructure. So, I really want to become a good asset not only to my family but even to the country. I want to devote my skills and ability to it…” "Work hard" is his advice to the young generation. Dwarka was the second-best performing student in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) at the 2019 NGSA.
Queen’s College girl, Gabriella De Santos, wrote 21 CSEC subjects. She copped 14 Grades Ones, six Grades Twos and a Grade Three. She said she was expecting better grades and that in order to choose a career route, she would be going back to QC to
pursue CAPE. “I feel pretty good although I was hoping for more. But I can accept it; I’m quite happy about it,” the teen shared.
Her advice for students preparing for important exams is to “study early.” She said: “Study early because I did not do that. I studied most subjects the night before and there were a lot of tears, a lot panicking. My parents had to calm me down so many nights. I did not sleep at all. So, just take my advice and study early because if you study early, you’ll do very well.
Dhruv Singh of Fraser’s Academy wrote 16 CSEC subjects and secured 14 Grade Ones and two Grade Twos. He believes that his experience of managing multiple subjects has prepared him for the challenges of higher education, and he is eager to take on the next phase of
his academic journey. He, however, stressed the need for balancing academics and other activities.
“Not to focus too much on studying all the time. Enjoy yourself once a while. Refresh your mind and do something fun. Keep your balance and focus on your work as well.”
Saraswati Vidya Niketa’s Dhanpal Singh is heading to the University of Guyana to study petroleum engineering. With 15 Grades Ones and four Grade Two passes at CSEC, he is elated at his achievements. “It was a lot of hard work to get those results,” Singh stated.
Their success in CSEC and CAPE is just the beginning of what promises to be a journey filled with opportunities, growth, and the potential to make meaningful contributions to society.
Aniya Couchman Dave Chowtie Gabriella De Santos Dhruv Singh
Pradesh Dwarka
Guyana’s hinterland transformation… High-speed internet, solar power enhance sustainable development
–– Prime Minister Phillips says
PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, in his address to a large audience at the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference yesterday, declared that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) administration’s commitment to democratic principles has ensured that hinterland communities are no longer denied development.
Phillips reported that the government has made significant strides in bridging the digital divide and enhancing energy access through solar power and high-speed internet in many remote villages across Guyana.
Before 1992, the Prime Minister noted, hinterland regions saw minimal development. He said that when the PPP/C assumed office under President Cheddi Jagan,
a Minister of Amerindian Affairs was appointed to drive development in these areas. And despite making positive strides from 1992-2015, there was a period of neglect from 2015 to 2020 under the previous APNU+AFC administration.
Phillips highlighted that prior to the PPP/C’s election victory, Amerindian villages faced numerous challenges, including significant difficulties in the education system. Access to education was a luxury, with many students needing to relocate to the coastland to attend high schools.
Under the current administration, Phillips emphasised that basic services such as education, health, and infrastructure—previously neglected—are now being addressed. Development in
these sectors is now evident, making education more accessible.
He said this aligns with Guyana’s status as one of the fastest-growing economies, assuring leaders that that development in the hinterland will continue to progress alongside that on the coastland.
Phillips announced that the government has expanded internet bandwidth using the Low Earth Orbit Satellite system, introducing high-speed internet to 66 communities in Regions One, Two, Five, and Six as part of Phase One of the project.
Phase Two of the digital divide project has been temporarily postponed due to the National Toshaos Council Conference. However, by the end of December, high-speed internet will be installed in
250 Amerindian communities across Regions Seven, Eight, and part of Six.
In the Hinterland Core Connectivity Project, nearly 150 ICT hubs will be installed, each equipped with 20 laptops powered by solar energy. More than 250 ICT hubs are planned for hinterland communities to further bridge the development gap.
Phillips urged local leaders and residents to care for the installed equipment and
hardware. Training will be provided as part of the government-funded project.
The Prime Minister also highlighted advancements in wind and solar energy projects. Microgrids with solar panels and battery banks will provide reliable power to 31 community buildings, with plans to construct five more facilities. This initiative is managed by the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA).
Phillips said that 30,000 solar systems for household energy have been installed in remote communities this year, with larger solar farms planned for several hinterland villages.
He also noted that the Low Carbon Development Strategy has increased carbon credit benefits to communities by 26 per cent, reflecting the extensive development occurring in Amerindian communities across Guyana.
Linden labourer fatally stabbed with scissors
–– allegedly by drinking
A 22-year-old labourer was, on Monday, fatally stabbed five times with a scissors, allegedly by his drinking buddy during an altercation at Sand Hill, Upper Berbice River.
According to the police, the victim, Francis Sukoo, also of Sand Hill, was fatally stabbed between 17:00hrs and 18:07hrs on Monday.
“Enquires disclosed that on the date and time mentioned, the victim was liming with the suspect and some friends at a shop, imbibing alcohol. An argument ensued between the victim and the sus-
buddy
pect, which caused the former (Sukoo) to become annoyed and slap the latter several times in his face,” a police release detailed.
The suspect allegedly left the shop, but later returned, armed with a scissors, which he used to stab Sukoo five times about his body, causing him to collapse to the ground.
The victim was rushed to the Linden Hospital Complex, where he was pronounced dead on arrival by the doctor on duty.
Police are currently on the hunt for the suspect as investigations continue.
Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips
AFC records poor turnout during Linden public meeting
–– Norton says PNC supporters are politically
conscious, need no encouragement from him to stay away
THE Alliance for Change (AFC) has taken yet another blow with an incredibly low turnout at the party’s most recent public meeting in Linden.
The meeting that was held last week Friday, was slated to be a major step forward for the party with its feature address by AFC leader Nigel Hughes. However, this was not the case, as support was dismal and did not match the party’s initial projections in what is supposedly one of its longstanding strongholds.
This was further addressed by Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton, at the People’s National Congress Reform’s (PNCR)’s most recent press conference.
Among the questions asked by journalists, was whether or not the Opposition Leader discouraged supporters from attending the AFC’s meeting.
Norton firmly denied the claims, noting: “I do not have to discourage supporters in Linden from attending the AFC meeting.”
He emphasised that although they are no longer functioning and campaigning as a collation party, APNU and AFC still have a good professional relationship.
“I have made it clear that the AFC was part of the coalition and we still have a good relationship with them. And I do not have to discourage anybody from
going to the meeting,” Norton said.
However, despite this claim, Norton related that he was not even aware of AFC’s public meeting before hand, and had no intention or way of impacting supporter turnout.
“The AFC did not advise us that they were holding the meeting in Linden. In fact, like everybody else, I saw it on the day before or two days before on social media,” he said, adding: “I would assume if you are a political party, and you are holding a political activity, and you want our support; you would engage us.”
Norton further added that he was not of the opinion that he nor his party were obligated to encourage supporters to attend the AFC’s meeting.
This friction and discourse further calls into question the “good relationship,” between the APNU and AFC and showcases the constant disunity between the former collation parties.
Tackling the all-important matter of supporters, Norton further added that Guyanese have a mind of their own and hold their own political views, and as such, he does not have to discourage his supporters from attending the AFC meeting.
“Do not forget that people are involved in politics. They will do their own assessments of what they
should do and what they should not do,” he said.
Norton said his party’s supporters are politically conscious and know what they should support.
He emphasised that his party’s supporters are politically conscious, and well aware of the nation’s politics.
“I do not know of anyone who has discouraged our members and supporters. Our members and supporters are politically conscious and know what they should support and what they should not support,” Norton said.
The AFC has faced several challenges in recent years, including dwindling membership. For example, 285 delegates were said to have attended its Seventh National Conference in 2022, compared to only 211 at this year’s conference.
The party’s decline was more evident after it terminated its political coalition with the APNU in 2022. The parties established a coalition to compete in the 2015 elections, which saw them win the government.
The AFC had openly complained about APNU ignoring its smaller coalition members. In December 2018, then-AFC member Charrandass Persaud voted in support of a no-confidence tabled by the then opposition PPP, resulting in the fall of the coalition government.
Scenes from the Alliance For Change (AFC) recent public meeting in Linden
Female prisoners, prison officer complete fish management, aquaculture training
SIX female inmates at the Timehri Prison and one prison officer recently participated in a oneday practical training session on fish management and aquaculture.
This initiative, according to the Guyana Prison Service (GPS), was facilitated by the prison in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture’s Fisheries Department.
The training session was the second to be held at the prison and it focused on essential aspects of tilapia rearing, including feeding and angling techniques, weighing and pond design.
The programme was spearheaded by Dr. Gray and serves as a pilot project of the prison’s training module. Upon completion, the participants were awarded a certificate of completion, and were also given a fish management manual.
The tilapia project is one of several agricultural initiatives within the Guyana prison system, and stands as a testament to the institution’s multi-faceted approaches to offender rehabilitation and skills development.
Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot noted that the project further demonstrates the Prison Service’s efforts to aid in the prisoners’ rehabilitation process.
In February of this year, the Timehri Prison yielded an impressive 230 pounds of red tilapia from its fishpond. Also in February, the female inmates were participants in a practical training session which was also facilitated by the prison authorities in collaboration with the Fisheries Department.
The prison’s aquaculture project stands
GWI reports steady improvement of water quality in Central Georgetown
THE Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has confirmed that there has been steady improvement of the water quality in Central Georgetown since the press briefing held August 15, 2024, when the company outlined the challenges experienced at its Shelterbelt operations.
According to a press release from GWI, as daily monitoring and water quality testing continue, the results have shown continuous improvements in the quality and supply.
Water samples taken on August 20, 2024, from various areas in Central Georgetown which indicate improvements in the clarity of the water
While some areas such as Stabroek, Regent Street, Hadfield and Alberttown are showing high levels of water clarity, other areas at the further end of the distribution network including Kitty and Charlestown are experiencing gradual improvements.
In response, GWI has dispatched technical teams and is aggressively flushing the network to improve the clarity of the water.
“GWI remains committed and is working assiduously to ensure the situation continues to improve so residents can have access to better quality of water,” the company said.
as a shining example of the GPS’ commitment to rehabilitation and training programmes aimed at equipping inmates with the necessary skills and resources for a successful transition back into society, ultimately contributing to safer communities and a more sustainable future.
Six female inmates at the Timehri Prison and a prison officer recently benefitted from a one-day practical training session on fish management and aquaculture (GPS photo)
‘Successful’ Mocha literacy camp expected to improve participants’ critical thinking, reading skills
SCORES of youths from the Mocha Arcadia community on the East Bank Demerara, on Monday received certificates and prizes for successfully completing a five-week literacy summer camp, which was launched in July for pupils of Grades three to five.
The closing ceremony
was held at the Mocha-Arcadia Primary School and featured remarks from prominent leaders in Guyana. The camp included interactive academic activities such as phonics, spelling, reading and reasoning, vocabulary, arts and crafts and sports.
One of the many speakers
Director of the GOAL scholarship programme, Professor Dr. Jacob Opadeyi
present at the closing ceremony was Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag. The minister pointed out that this summer camp offered a little more than the average camp would.
She said: “And that is the idea. The idea is to start this camp, but continue it next year in a bigger way, in a better way, in a more comprehensive way where we can have more programmes involved, where we can see where this camp, maybe where we had the weaknesses, and how we can strengthen that next year.”
More than that, the minister highlighted that this was an environment for the students to not only learn, bond and make friendships, but to gain confidence and much more.
According to Minister Parag, this was all to help the youths to get to a point where their reading skills will be improved as they move through their primary school journey.
Meanwhile, city councillor and former national cricketer, Steven Jacobs in his remarks advised the pupils to ensure that they remember what was taught and put it into practice. He said it’s important to not take for granted what they were able to achieve over the five-week period.
Jacobs stated firmly: “I think it’s important that you make sure that you remember everything that was taught, and make sure that when you head out back to school in September, you put it into practice, because at this tender age, these lifelong lessons
that you learn overtime, is needed.
He continued, “I know that school is just around the corner, but I want to advise you to make sure that you take this time in, reflect on what you learned over the last five weeks, and make sure that when school is ready to be open, you’re ready with the knowledge and skills, to have better grades going forward,”
Jacobs related that this is what is desired for the children of Guyana; for them to be well educated and for them to be empowered so they can take up leadership positions in the future.
Director of the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL), Professor Dr. Jacob Opadeyi, also delivered encouraging words to the pupils.
Dr. Opadeyi emphasised that they must know the answers to five important questions: what, where, when, who, and how. He noted that these are the questions which will help to foster critical thinking.
Stiffany Nelson-Moore, a Mocha Arcadia councillor briefly stated they have seen improvements in each of the pupils who would have attended the camp. She urged parents to invest in the education of their child or children and to work with them in the coming weeks to ensure that what they would have learnt at the summer literacy camp doesn’t end there.
Additionally, some 14 laptops were distributed to both teachers and pupils. These were sponsored by the GOAL, and Clinton Urling and family.
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag
GPF academy launches third junior leaders training programme
THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) academy launched the third cohort of its Junior Leaders Training Programme on Monday at the Officers’ Training Centre in Eve Leary.
This marks the beginning of the final phase of training, which will run until September 27, 2024.
The six-week programme comprises Junior Leaders Course 1 and Junior Leaders Course 2, tailored specifically for constables, lance corporals, and corporals. The aim is to lay a strong foundation for the next generation of police leadership, equipping them with the necessary skills to meet the evolving demands of modern policing.
The core objective of the training is to provide developmental opportunities that not only enhance participants’ knowledge but also strengthen the human resource capacity of the Guyana Police Force. This initiative aligns with the Force’s commitment to building internal capacity and preparing officers for the challenges and responsibilities of higher ranks.
Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’ (ag), Mr. Ravindradat Budhram, addressed the ranks, urging them to maximise the resources available during their training. He highlighted the importance of utilising the Police library and gym facilities to support both their intellectual and physical development. Mr. Budhram also emphasised the need for maintaining high standards of conduct, noting that their behavior reflects not only on themselves but also on the broader organiation.
Woman Superintendent Sonia Herbert, Director of the GPF Acad-
Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’ (ag.) Mr Ravindradat Budhram, addresses the gathering emy, also addressed the participants, encouraging them to fully engage in the programme. “Put your best foot forward and take advantage of
everything that will be taught over the next six weeks,” she urged. She highlighted the inclusion of both policing topics and academic subjects,
with instruction provided by lecturers from the Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE), Nations University, and the University of Guyana (UG). Superintendent Herbert reminded the ranks that “learning is a lifelong journey, and it never stops.”
The training programme’s blended approach, combining law enforcement training with academic instruction, is
designed to offer participants a comprehensive learning experience. As they prepare for future leadership roles, these junior ranks will be better equipped to perform effectively and efficiently at higher levels, ensuring that the Guyana Police Force remains a competent and capable institution in the face of modern policing challenges.
The Guyana Police Force remains dedicated
to continuous professional development and fostering the skills necessary for future leadership. This training marks another step in the ongoing transformation of the Force, reinforcing its mission to enhance safety, security, and justice in Guyana. Also present at the launch were Woman Superintendent Carol Fraser and Assistant Superintendent Gladwin Hanover.
A section of the gathering at the third cohort of its Junior Leaders Training Programme on Monday at the Officers’ Training Centre in Eve Leary
Health Minister meets with Canadian partners to strengthen healthcare system
IN a significant move to bolster the nation’s healthcare system, Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony, accompanied by Acting Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jeetendra Mohanlall, met with representatives from the College of the North Atlantic (CNA) and their new partner, Team Broken Earth, on Tuesday.
The meeting took place at the Ministry’s Brickdam Headquarters and focused on exploring future collaboration opportunities to en-
hance healthcare services in Guyana.
Ms. Elizabeth Vinecent, Associate Vice President of CNA, led the delegation, which also included officials from the Canadian institution. CNA has been actively involved in Guyana through its participation in the Skills to Access the Green Economy (SAGE) project, a development initiative under the Canadian High Commission that focuses on educational and workforce development in the country.
Speaker of the National Assembly leads delegation to China
THE Speaker of the National Assembly of the Parliament of Guyana, Manzoor Nadir, is leading a distinguished delegation to Beijing, China, from August 19 to 28, 2024.
The delegation was invited by Chairman of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee of China, Zhao Leji, to participate in the Commemoration of the 40th Anniversary of the NPC’s affiliation with the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the 2024 Seminar on the Achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Parliaments of Developing Countries.
The Speaker of the National Assembly of the Parliament of Guyana, Manzoor Nadir, has led a distinguished delegation to Beijing, China, from August 19 to 28, 2024
The Guyanese delegation, led by Speaker Nadir, includes Faizal Jaffarally, M.P; Christopher Jones, M.P; and Carlleta Charles, Parliamentary Executive Officer.
The programme will feature high-level meetings with Chairman Leji and President of the IPU, Tulia Ackson, as well as other distinguished leaders.
On Wednesday, August 21, 2024, the seminar will focus on crucial discussions, including upholding peace and stability, synergizing development strategies, respecting diversity, and fostering a development democracy suited to national conditions. Parliamentarian Jaffarally, M.P, is scheduled to deliver a presentation during these discussions.
The relationship between China and Guyana has a rich history of developmental collaboration.
This visit further underscores the strong and enduring partnership between the two nations, particularly in the pursuit of sustainable development goals.
With recent additional funding, CNA has expanded its reach by partnering with Team Broken Earth, a Canadian medical volunteer organisation renowned for providing critical medical care in underserved regions. This partnership aims to leverage both organisations’ expertise to address healthcare challenges in Guyana, potentially bringing advanced training and resources to local medical professionals.
The meeting marks a pivotal step in ongoing efforts to strengthen the healthcare system in Guyana, aligning with broader initiatives to improve access to quality medical services and enhance the overall health and well-being of the population.
Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony, accompanied by Acting Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jeetendra Mohanlall, met with representatives from CNA and their new partner, Team Broken Earth, on Tuesday
Police Force enhances forensic capabilities with new bullet trap equipment
IN a significant advancement for the Guyana Police Force’s forensic capabilities, Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn officially handed over a 50 BMG Bullet Trap to the Acting Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken, during a ceremony at the Ministry of Home Affairs in Brickdam on Tuesday.
This state-of-the-art equipment is set to greatly enhance the Force’s ability to test-fire firearms recovered from crime scenes, marking a major step forward in the fight against gun-related crime.
The 50 BMG Bullet Trap, engineered to safely contain and stop bullets with velocities ranging from 600 FPS to the powerful .50 calibre BMG round, is constructed with AR500 steel and features chunk ballistic rubber material for maximum safety and durability.
Its mobile design allows for easy transportation between locations, and the self-healing front cover ensures it can withstand repeated use, securely capturing rounds within the trap.
Minister Benn highlighted the importance of this acquisition, noting its critical role in strengthening the forensic capabilities of the Guyana Police Force.
“This technology will play a vital role in our ongoing efforts to combat firearms-related crimes,” he said during the ceremony.
The event was also attended by Permanent Secretary, Mr. Andre Ally, Deputy Commissioner ‘Law Enforcement’ Mr. Wendell Blanhum, and Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, Ms. Jasmin Louisy.
The acquisition of the 50 BMG Bullet Trap was made possible through funding secured by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS) from the United States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL). The funding supports the acquisition of Bullet Catcher Units for three Caribbean countries, including Guyana, and also assists in capacity-building efforts that bolster the work of the Crime Gun Intelligence Unit.
With the ability to capture thousands of rounds before requiring maintenance, the 50 BMG Bullet Trap is expected to be an invaluable asset in the Guyana Police Force’s forensic operations.
CARICOM IMPACS remains committed to working closely with Member States to disrupt, dismantle, and defeat organised crime, with a particular focus on enhancing the capabilities of law enforcement agencies across the Caribbean.
This new equipment not only strengthens Guyana’s ability to tackle gun-related crimes but also reinforces the collaborative efforts be-
tween regional and international partners in enhancing security and justice throughout the Caribbean.
Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn officially handed over the Bullet Trap to the Commissioner of Police (ag), Clifton Hicken, while being flanked by Permanent Secretary, Andre Ally and Deputy Commissioner ‘Law Enforcement’, Wendell Blanhum and another official during a ceremony at the Ministry of Home Affairs
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Wednesday August 21, 2024) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Brian Lara-202 (Johannesburg, 2003) (2) A B DeVillers-178 (Bridgetown, 2005)
Today’s Quiz:
(1) What are the best Test match figures by a WI bowler in South Africa to date?
(2) What are the best Test match figures by a SA bowler in the West Indies to date?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
AMERICAN RACING TIPS
SARATOGA
Race 1 Vintage Vino
Race 2 Sacrosanct
Race 3 Andthewinneris
Race 4 Six Percent
Race 5 Ice Road
Race 6 Playful Lass
SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS
DURBANVILLE
08:20 hrs Jack In The Green
09:00 hrs State Capitol
09:35 hrs Green Mandarin
10:10 hrs Liketheclappers 10:45 hrs Great Cat
11:20 hrs Wylie Jack
IRISH RACING
SLIGO
12:08 hrs Gers Cigi
12:38 hrs Benjis Benefit
13:10 hrs My Great Mate
13:40 hrs Evans Secret
14:10 hrs Morricone
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15:20 hrs Bonnebosq
ENGLISH RACING TIPS
YORK
08:50 hrs Pilgrim
09:25 hrs Ruling Court
10:00 hrs King's Gambit
10:35 hrs Zarakem
11:10 hrs Iron Lion
11:45 hrs Designer 12:20 hrs Artagnan
CARLISLE
09:05 hrs Khaldiya
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10:15 hrs Flowstate
10:50 hrs Love Yours
11:25 hrs Space Ninja
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12:30 hrs Redarna
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KEMPTON
12:50 hrs Chemical
13:20 hrs Harmonia
13:50 hrs Jayyash
14:25 hrs Loving Look
15:00 hrs Matharu
15:30 hrs God Bless America
ICC to move WT20 world cup to UAE
CMC – THE International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken the decision to move the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup from Bangladesh to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The highly anticipated event, which will run from October 3 to 20, was originally scheduled to be held in Bangladesh.
However, in a statement issued on Tuesday, the ICC’s chief executive Geoff Allardice said relocating the tournament was driven by the fact that governments of a number of participating teams had issued travel advisories in relation to Bangladesh.
Social unrest in Bangladesh earlier this month led former Prime Minis-
ter, Sheikh Hasina, to resign and flee the country.
While the World Cup will now be held in the UAE, the Bangladesh Cricket Board will continue to host the event.
“It is a shame not to be hosting the Women’s T20 World Cup in Bangladesh as we know the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) would have staged
GTTA High Performance Academy to commence tomorrow
THE Guyana Table Tennis Association has recruited the services of high-performance coach, Alexandre Gomes, to host a high-performance camp in Guyana from August 22 to September 4
The training camp is geared for elite level players with great technical ability
The central objective of this engagement is to further provide and expose our national table tennis team members and coaches to high performance training and methodologies.
The camp also aims to improve the technical, tactical and strategic development of players, improving performance in competitions
and assist the association with training, mentoring and preparation.
The training will also go towards assisting with preparation of some of the GTTA’s key players in Shemar Britton, Natalie Cummings and Chelsea Edghill who have qualified to participate in the PANAM Championships scheduled for October 13 to 30 in El Salvador.
Players from Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Jamaica have expressed an interest in participating in the training camp.
Alexandre is a top level proven coach who is well respected in the table tennis fraternity globally. He has worked with
Quadri Aruna, world top 10 Player from Nigeria as well as several national team members from the USA, China, Europe and Asia.
He has also lead the National Team of Peru as Head Coach for several years and is currently one of the lead coaches at the 888 table Tennis Club in Burlingame and San Diego which is a United States High performance training centre.
Guyana’s table tennis maestro, Britton, has credited and paid homage to his work in helping him to qualify for the Panam games 2023.
Sessions are scheduled to commence from August 22 with two sessions daily.
a memorable event,” Allardice said in a statement.
“I would like to thank the team at the BCB for exploring all avenues to try and enable the event to be hosted in Bangladesh, but travel advisories from the governments of a number of the participating teams meant that wasn’t feasible. However,
they will retain hosting rights. We look forward to taking an ICC global event to Bangladesh in the near future.
“I’d also like to thank the Emirates Cricket Board for stepping in to host on behalf of the BCB and Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe for their generous offers of support, and we look forward to see-
ing ICC global events in both of those countries in 2026,” he further added.
The UAE, home to the ICC headquarters, has become a significant hub for cricket in recent years, hosting numerous qualifier tournaments as well as the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2021 alongside Oman.
Former England international to feature in Cricket For Charity match
CLAIRMONTE Christopher Lewis, who was born in Guyana but played for England between 1990 and 1998, will turn for Team Kanuku at the Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast 2024 Cricket For Charity Match set for National Stadium, Providence, Saturday, August 24.
Lewis, a lanky bowling all-rounder, will be captained by Lennox Cush in the match. Their side will face President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s Team Roraima.
Now 56, Lewis has played 32 Tests and 53 OneDay Internationals and adds a wealth of experience to Lennox Cush’s side, which is also expected to feature the likes of Ramnaresh Sarwan, young Shahid Ramzan,
Sewnarine Chattergoon, Rawle Ferguson, Jeremey Garrett, Minister Susan Rodrigues, and Robbie Rambarran, among others. In 2023, the match raised well over G$17M for charitable organisations in Guyana.
The Charity Match forms part of an action-packed day with the first semi-finals set for 15:00 hours between Montra Jaguars and Mahdia (Movements Family) followed by Titans All-Stars against Diamond Gunners from 17:00 hours.
The charity match is from 19:00 hours, and the final is from 20:30 hours.
Each of the losing semi-finalists on August 24 will take home $250,000, compliments of Premier Insurance.
More so, players will vie for the titles of Most Runs, Most Wickets, and Player of the Final. Each winner will receive a Smart TV and a $75,000 cash prize compliments of Regal Stationery and Computer Centre.
Assuria Insurance will present a motorbike, and $85,000 will go to the Most Valuable Player.
Additionally, $100,000 will be split equally between the Kawasaki Super Striker of the tournament (player with the highest strike rate— minimum of 12 balls) and the Most Economical bowler (lowest economy rate—minimum of 24 balls).
Admission to the venue is free.
The Kares One Guyana T10 Blast also enjoys the
support of Kares Engineering, Banks DIH Limited, Montra Restaurant and Lounge, Demerara Mutual, ETS, Metro Office and Computer Supplies, Jacobs’ Jewellery, Digital Technology, First Change Builders Inc, KFC Guyana, Hoosein’s Security Services, NEW GPC Inc., Building Expo 2024, Giftland OfficeMax, Sankar’s Auto Works, ENet, Avinash Contracting and Scrap Metal Inc., Trophy Stall, ANSA McAL Distribution, Camille’s Academy, R. Kisson Contracting Service, Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, RS53 RestoBar and Lounge, Samaroo Investments, and Coel’s Boutique.
President’s Cup horse racing set for September 22
HORSE-RACING rivalry will be renewed on Sunday September 22 at the Rising Sun Turf Club when the One Guyana President’s Cup runs off. After an exhilarating 16th running of the Guyana Cup, horsemen will be gearing up for another big clash, while fans will be hoping to see their favourite
horse come out on top. Guyana will be an action-packed venue in September, with Cricket Carnival on the horizon. The 16th running of the Guyana Cup was hailed a great success, with more than 8000 fans, while 10 top-quality races treated the fans to a spectacle.
Organiser of the Guyana Cup,
Nasrudeen Mohamed Jr., is focused on improving the sport.
“We have a plan, and it is to elevate the sport and take it to the level it needs to be, that is the Sport of Kings.”
“We are working along with the authorities. This year we should get the legislation, and we are looking forward to that, and the sport will get
even better,” Mohamed said in a recent interview.
Olympic Kremlin, the Guyana Cup champion will be out to dominate, while John Bull, another horse which is owned by Slingerz Racing Stables, will be out to defend the President’s Cup title.
Former Guyana Cup Champion Easy Time, who
rode third at this year’s Guyana Cup, Nova Sol, and Oy Vey will he hoping to go one step further. Spankhurst, who had a long layoff due to injury, could return to horse-racing, which will make this year’s President’s Cup competition a supreme one.
The usual top jockeys had an ordinary outing at the
races he ran at Rising Sun. The likes of Colin Ross, Ronaldeo Appadu, and Nicholas Patrick will be hoping for better results at the upcoming President’s Cup.
Hayley Matthews ‘Life Stories’ Documentary Released
THE Massy Women’s Caribbean Premier League (WCPL) will be releasing a new documentary on the cricketing journey of Hayley Matthews, the number one ranked T20 all-rounder.
The ‘Life Stories’ film follows Matthews from her childhood in Barbados to winning the T20 World Cup and claiming the WCPL title. As a cricketer who is a regu-
lar in both the international and global franchise game, her story as a superb athlete in multiple disciplines to the top of world cricket is brilliantly told by Director, Paul Pritchett-Brown and Director of Photography, Arjun Choudary.
The film will be broadcast on Willow in the USA, TNT Sport in the UK, TV6 in
Trinidad, Fancode in India, Fox Sports in Australia and SportsMax in the Caribbean. The film will also be available to watch on the Caribbean Premier League’s YouTube channel.
The film’s Director, Paul Pritchett-Brown, said: “It was a real pleasure to work with Hayley and her family to produce this film. The final product is a testament
to their commitment to helping us tell this story. Hayley is one of the most impressive athletes the Caribbean has produced, and it was an honour to be able to make this film about her journey.”
Pete Russell, CEO of the CPL and Executive Producer of this film, said: “It is so important that we take the time to tell the stories of the
wonderful cricketers that bring our tournaments to life, and this film is a beautiful example of what can be done when given this level of access. I would like to thank Hayley and her family for their commitment to the project and I am looking forward to the cricketing world enjoying this brilliantly put together film.”
Hayley Matthews said:
“It was a fantastic experience to work with the CPL team to put together this documentary on my journey into cricket and myself and my family are really excited for the world to see it. My story has many more chapters left to be told but it is great to able to showcase how I got to where I am today.”
Providence rated satisfactory after T20 world cup
CMC – ALMOST two months after the completion of the 2024 men’s T20 World Cup, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has given a thumbs down to two of the pitches used in the competition.
— Nassau County & Tarouba rated as unsatisfactory
The ICC described the pitches for the first two games at New York’s Nassau County Stadium, as well as the pitch used for the semifinal between Afghanistan and South Africa at the Brian Lara Academy in Tarouba, Trinidad and Tobago, as unsatisfactory.
were rated as unsatisfactory.
In the two games in New York, Sri Lanka was routed for just 77 in a six-wicket loss to South Africa and two days later Ireland made just 96 in a lopsided eight-wicket loss to India. The pitches for the first two matches of the T20 World Cup at the Nassau County Stadium
The venue in New York was readied in five months, with Damian Hough, the Adelaide Oval chief curator, brought in to prepare the drop-in pitches.
However, after criticism from various quarters, the ICC had acknowledged that the pitches there had been substandard.
Remedial work was carried out, and ahead of the following
game, between Canada and Ireland, areas where grass shoots were growing under the cracks were covered with topsoil and rolled in to make the surface much flatter.
The surfaces used for the subsequent fixtures in New York, including India vs Pakistan, where 119 beat 113 for 7, have been rated as “satisfactory”.
The pitch used for the semi-
final between Afghanistan and South Africa was also harshly criticised.
During that contest, Afghanistan was skittled out for 56, with some deliveries rolling along the ground during their innings. The ICC rates pitches, and outfields, for all international games on a scale of very good to unfit: very good, good, satisfactory, unsatisfactory and unfit.
The surface at Providence for the India versus England semi-final was rated “satisfactory”, while the Kensington Oval deck for the final between India and South Africa was rated “very good”.
The ICC was largely happy with the state of the outfields, with only New York and Guyana receiving “satisfactory” ratings, while the others were “very good”.
Guyana Cup, as veteran Yap Drepaul returned to winning ways and took the champion jockey title, with two wins in three
Second-place – $500,000 from SuperBet Guyana, and the winner pockets $1.5M from Star Rentals.
Clairmonte Christopher Lewis
US Olympians aim to inspire young Guyanese athletes
US Olympians are in Guyana, sharing their expertise with over 200 young track and field athletes at the National Synthetic Track, West Coast Demerara.
The four-day camp, which started August 19 and concludes August 22, is a joint effort by the US Embassy, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, and the Athletics Association of Guyana which aims to ignite the next generation of Guyanese track stars.
From drills to motivation, the Olympians are passing on their knowledge and inspiring the young athletes to dream big.
The programme is focused on developing not just physical skills, but also the mental toughness needed to succeed at the highest level.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., sees track and field as a potential goldmine for the country and believes programmes like this are crucial in developing world-
class talent.
Khadevis Robinson, an
American retired middle-distance runner, rationalised that sport helps young people understand choices they make in life.
“When we look at Olympians, we see the final goal, we see people celebrating on television but it all starts with the goal in your mind and the belief, and the support of coaches”, Robinson noted.
Likewise, Mechelle Lewis Freeman, a former American track and field athlete who specialised in the 100 meters and 4x100 metre relay, now coach, told the athletes to envision that one day they can reach on the world stage, as she too sat in the those chairs as a young athlete and began to make her dreams into realisation with hard work and dedication.
Three Guyanese referees for CFU U-14 Challenge series in Trinidad
THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) is proud to announce that three of its referees—Kenisha Prescott, Brandon Cyrus, and Safiya Goulding—are officiating at the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Boys Under-14 Challenge Series, being held in Trinidad and Tobago from August 16-24.
This milestone is a testament to the GFF's rigorous training programmes, which are designed to produce referees of the highest calibre, ready to excel on regional and international stages. Following their recent intensive training and fitness sessions, these officials have shown exceptional promise, earning the opportunity to gain valuable regional experience at this significant tournament.
The Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Challenge Series, a highly competitive tournament, which usually takes place bi-annually, is a key development
platform—showcasing young talent from across the Caribbean.
Kenisha Prescott, who recently returned from officiating at the CONCACAF Girls Under-15 Championship in Costa Rica, is one of the referees whose hard work and dedication have been recognised by this selection. Prescott credits the GFF’s training programmes for helping her elevate her game to new heights. “I am grateful for the opportunity to be here to showcase my talent, which will help me to elevate to the
JASON-RAY Khalil and Samuel Ince-Carvahal have advanced to the semi-finals of the Men’s Doubles at the ENet Senior Caribbean Squash Championship. The Guyanese pair secured a dominant victory over their Trinidadian opponents, Seth Thong and
Khalil and Ince-Carvahal emerged with a solid 11-6, 11-7 Despite limited doubles preparation, Khalil and Ince-Carvahal executed their strategy flawlessly, earning a
next level,” Prescott shared. She added, “I set realistic short-term goals and try to achieve them. So I would try in each tournament, I would try to reach the semifinals or finals. And once I achieved that goal, it would aid me in achieving my larger goal, which is to attend a Gold Cup, a World Cup.”
Brandon Cyrus, who has been officiating for approximately seven years, is another referee
who has greatly benefitted from the GFF’s structured development programmes. Acknowledging the importance of mentorship and guidance provided by the Federation, Cyrus said, “Firstly, I need to acknowledge the fact that the opportunity of even being here is a very special thing to me...
None of this would be possible for me without my mentors... These people have
helped craft me and shaped me in such a way that I am ready to take on any obstacles ahead.” He emphasised, “What I have to say to the others home, it's not impossible. So I invite you to have a clear mind and be ready, have a good work ethic, and it's always possible to achieve any goal.”
Minister Charles Ramson Jr, U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole D. Theriot, Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, along with the Olympic coaches, other officials and the participants
(L-R) Brandon Cyrus, Kenisha Prescott & Safiya Goulding
Leonel Sorrillo.
From left: Samuel Ince-Carvahal, Jason-Ray Khalil, Leonel Sorrillo and Seth Thong (Photo: News Room/Kirth Cadogan/August 20, 2024)
Fernandes into final at World Squash Masters
NUMBER one seed, Nicolette Fernandes, is in the final of the women’s 40+ category at the ongoing World Squash Federation Masters in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
In the semi-final on Tuesday, she ‘bossed’ South African Karen Blom to the title match by defeating her 11-2, 11-5, 11-3.
She will now face the number-two seed, Samantha Terán, in the final on August 22.
In 2022, Fernandes won gold in the women's 35+ category. More so, Richard Chin was eliminated in the round-of-16 stage in the Men’s 50+ as he lost his match to South African Paul Atkinson 11-4, 11-9, 10-12, 7-11, 11-8.
Providence rated satisfactory after T20 world cup
— Nassau County & Tarouba rated as unsatisfactory
President’s Cup horse racing set for September 22
Nicolette Fernandes
John Bull on the outside (Green, Red and White) took down Easy Time in last year’s President’s Cup PG
The Providence National Stadium (newsroom photo)