Breaking the Stigma
Understanding Epilepsy in Guyana
Sunday, February 23, 2025
Dr. Singh alongside Deidre Ifill, Vice President of the EFG (Samuel Maughn photo)
From the foothills of the South Pakaraimas, schoolteacher is making an impact in her community
By Michel Outridge
MICHELLE George
is a schoolteacher in her community, Karasabai, a remote village that has seen its fair share of development in recent times to maintain its sustainability.
Born in Laluni, Soesdyke/Linden Highway, but raised
in Karasabai, Region Nine, George is familiar with the locals and children. She wanted to give back to the community and became a teacher so she could
reside and work in the same village.
As a resident, there is no other place better than home for George, who is passionate about her role in the community. She spends most of her time at Karasabai Primary School, and when she is at home, she listens to her husband’s endless banter about cows and horses.
loves gardening. She has her own plot next to her home, where she has cultivated cassava and other crops.
George also has some cows and other livestock that she rears for meat. She simply loves their simple way of life, where the air
He is one of the real vaqueros of Karasabai, who are very traditional and have maintained that culture over the years.
Michelle George
George has been a schoolteacher for the past 30 years. She told Pepperpot Magazine that her parents used to work at Laluni as farmers, and she originated there, but as a baby, they relocated to Karasabai, and that’s where she wants to be.
She added that she
is fresh, they have a lot of space, and they are surrounded by a beautiful landscape of mountains.
The South Pakaraimas mountain range is within view, and others like George and her family reside at the foothills and surrounding areas, where they
From Mail to Modern Services
How Your Old Friends at the Post Office Are Doing New Things
THE Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) has long been a cornerstone of communication and service in Guyana, tracing its roots back to the colonial era when it facilitated the exchange of letters and parcels across the nation. Over the years, the GPOC has adeptly transformed its offerings to meet the changing needs of society, embracing technological advancements and diversifying its services.
With a commitment to innovation encapsulated in its slogan, "Your old friends doing new things," the GPOC not only honours its historical legacy but also redefines its role in the community, providing essential services that extend beyond traditional mail delivery to include digital shipping, parcel services to Cuba, and flyer distribution, ensuring it remains relevant in a modern world.
The Pepperpot Magazine sat down with Public Relations Officer Temika Rodney at the GPOC’s booth at the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo to better understand just how much Guyana’s postal service has changed.
One of the few things that has not changed about the GPOC is how it connects people across the nation. In a country where many people live in isolated regions, the postal service serves as a lifeline, fostering a sense of community and connection. As Temika stated, "The Post Office currently serves a number of government agencies by paying pensions and these other monetary salaries as well to employees in the interior locations."
Recognising the changing landscape of communication and commerce, the GPOC has introduced a range of new services to cater to the evolving needs of its customers. “We recently launched our parcel service to Cuba, and these flights are going out every Wednesday,” Temika shared. More recently, the GPOC has become ambitious in expanding its reach beyond Guyana’s borders. The ability to send documents and parcels to Cuba is not just a sign of Guyana’s modernisation but also reflects a broader vision
of fostering international connections.
For those interested in sending items abroad, Temika emphasised the convenience of the process, sharing, “If you have documents or parcels you want to send to Cuba, you can just visit our headquarters and send those parcels out.” However, the GPOC's innovation
dedication to supporting community growth and economic development.
In a time when traditional mail volumes are declining, Temika emphasised that the GPOC is taking a proactive approach to expanding its offerings. “The Post Office is not just about mail. We know mail is on the decline, so we are looking to expand our
We have two weekly flights, and you can shop from anywhere,” Temika stated.
This little-known service allows customers to take advantage of global e-commerce opportunities while ensuring their purchases reach them safely and efficiently—something all online shoppers want. Once items arrive in Guyana, the
In a digital age where access to technology can be a barrier, the GPOC remains a vital resource for those who may not have reliable internet connections. The postal service continues to serve as an essential lifeline, ensuring that all citizens have access to necessary communication tools.
The GPOC is not turning
The GPOC is not just a relic of the past; it is a forward-thinking organisation that seeks to adapt and grow alongside its community.
As the GPOC embraces its identity as "your old friends doing new things," it remains a pillar of support and service in Guyana. By transforming its operations to meet the de-
does not stop at international shipping. “We also have our flyer distribution service. If you have a new business or a new service that you want to make persons aware of, you can just bring your flyers in,” Temika noted.
This initiative empowers local entrepreneurs by providing them with a platform to reach potential customers, demonstrating the GPOC's
services in the digital era.” By adapting to new trends, the GPOC is determined to remain relevant in a fastpaced world while staying true to its roots.
For the tech-savvy and online shoppers, the GPOC has made significant strides in enhancing its shipping services. “For persons who like to shop online, you can sign up for our shipping service.
GPOC provides additional support. “When your items come to Guyana, we have in-house customs and planning, and all of that,” Temika explained.
The GPOC’s role in the community extends beyond mere logistics. “A lot of persons who do not have access to data and Wi-Fi services depend solely on the Post Office,” Temika highlighted.
its back on its traditional services either. Although mail is on the decline, for many people, the postal service is still vital in connecting with various services, friends, and family. “There's still a need for the Post Office, and that's what we do here to remind persons, and we continue to just market our services,” Temika told The Pepperpot Magazine.
mands of a modern society, the GPOC honours its legacy while creating space for new innovations for future generations. Through innovation, accessibility, and community engagement, the GPOC showcases how a historical institution can thrive in a rapidly changing world, ensuring that it remains a vital part of the fabric of Guyanese life.
Public Relations Officer Temika Rodney (second from the right) alongside a few other colleagues from Guyana Post Office Corporation during the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo
Over the Top in Everything
Scholar continues to excel academically and also in her artistic pastime
By Michel Outridge
NITYA
Vaishnavi
Narine is a multi-talented teenager who is no str anger to making headlines in the local news, which has highlighted her numerous academic achievements and artistic talent over the years.
The top performer always had a natural knack for excelling in whatever she set out to do, be it in academics, a project, or her personal artistic ventures during her spare time.
Narine, the 14-year-
both teachers at Tagore Memorial Secondary for more than 30 years, they have always allowed Narine to follow her dreams and choose her path in academics.
She is a very soft-spoken teenager who is successful in whatever she undertakes. She loves reading and learning new things, such as solving Rubik’s cubes.
from an early age that she was destined for greatness.
Narine is a student who is often stimulated by learning new things and puts in the extra work without being told to. She goes beyond the norm to remain on top of things.
As a resident of Number 63 Village, she is a simple person who endeavours to be the best version of herself. She is sure of the career path she wants to take and is working towards that goal.
Achievements
old, has set high standards. Being the daughter of parents who were
As an out-of-the-ordinary person with a mind of her own, she is clearly not your typical child but an overachiever who is geared towards success, and it is not a surprise to her parents, who realised
in June 2021. She was the winner of the inaugural Guyana Learning Channel National Spelling Bee Competition in 2022.
She t opped Region Six at the National Grade Two Exams in 2018. She wrote the National Grade Six Assessment Exams in 2021 while she was in Grade Five and obtained a place at Bishop's High School. She attended Bishop’s for a term and then transferred to Tagore Memorial Secondary in Grade Seven.
Narine won the Region Six Grade Five Spelling Competition
Narine participated in the Region Six Mash Competition in the Dra-
matic Poetry Segment a nd placed third. She also represented New Market Primary at the National STEM Fair in 2018 while in Grade Two and placed first.
The 14-year-old represented Tagore Memorial Secondary at the COVID-19 and Immunisation Webinar and Regional Trivia Competition involving schools from Guyana and the Caribbean.
She also participated in Art/Painting competitions and displays:
• Na tional Trincholoro Art Competition - 2nd place; won a tablet for herself and a
computer and cleaning supplies for Tagore Memorial Secondary.
• Displayed paintings at Castellani House during the Ministry of Education’s exhibition for secondary schools.
• Recently participated in an art exhibition at Castellani House: Im mersion - Into the Jungle with renowned professional artists across the country.
• Participated in local art exhibitions with the Berbice Art and Craft Collective (a group of local artists).
Narine has sold more than 30 paintings over
Nitya Narine
Nitya Vaishnavi Narine
Breaking the Stigma Understanding Epilepsy in Guyana
By Shaniya Harding
FOR many years, epilepsy in Guyana has been shrouded in misunderstanding, with those affected often facing stigma, discrimination, and even isolation. Commonly mislabeled as "fi ts" and attributed to supernatural causes, seizur es are widely misunderstood, making life even more challenging for individuals living with the condition. However, through advocacy, education, and support initiatives, organisations like the Epilepsy Foundation of G uyana are working to change per ceptions and ensure that those with epilepsy receive the care and understanding they deserve.
down w ith University Lecturer and founder of the Epilepsy Foundation of Guyana, Dr. Thomas Singh, and the foundation’s Vice President, Deidre Ifill, to better understand what it’s like living with epilepsy, the stigma people face, and how family, friends, or even strangers can help.
Living with Epilepsy
called chronic tonic, which caused involuntary jerking of his body. Now, sixty-twoyear-old Thomas is the founder and president of the Guyana Epilepsy Foundation. He is also one of the country’s leading economists and has lectured at the University of Guyana for the past 20 years.
seizures and epilepsy might not be that fortunate. They might be living in environments where they and the people around them
think that there's demon possession or that a person is mad. I was very lucky in that regard."
N ow an educator, Thomas and his foundation are passionate about tackling the lack of understanding about epilepsy in the education system. As
Like so many epileptics in Guyana, growing up came with a unique set of challenges. Despite this, Thomas says that he w as fortunate
This week, The Pepperpot Magazine sat
When Dr. Thomas Singh was writing what is now called his Common Entrance Examination, he had a seizure. Teachers and fellow students rushed to help him, but not many of them knew how. This, he says, encouraged him to start the Guyana Epilepsy Foundation more than 10 years ago.
Thomas was later diagnosed with epilepsy and suffered from a type of seizure
simply because his parents understood that epilepsy was a serious medical condition.
"I was very fortunate. I went to a school where most people understood, but in particular, my parents understood that the condition was a medical one," he s hared. "Very often, people who experience
Dr. Singh alongside Deidre Ifill, Vice President of the EFG (Samuel Maughn photo) TURN
Powered By Guyanese
The guyanese company championing local talent in the oil and gas industry
AS Guyana stands on the brink of an oil boom, Pandora Energy Inc. is playing a pivotal role in connecting local talent with opportunities in the industry. This local recruitment firm is dedicated to training and empowering Guyanese professionals for success in the evolving energy sector. By specialising in preparing individuals for the demanding world of oil and gas, Pandora Energy is not just filling positions but nurturing the next generation of professionals who will drive the country's energy future.
Pandora Energy Inc. and its slogan ‘Powered by Guyanese’ may not yet be a household name for most Guyanese, but it is one of the companies leading the way in developing the nation's human resources in the newest and fastest-growing industry. The Pepperpot Magazine recently spoke to Pradeep Ramoutar, one of the advisors behind this impactful venture, to learn more about their mission and efforts.
Since Guyana’s discovery of oil, a number of companies have come to our shores in an attempt to be a part of the world’s most recent oil boom. Similarly, Pandora Energy began with the discovery of oil in Guyana in 2015. As Pradeep shared with The Pepperpot Magazine, “Pandora started when we found oil in 2015. We knew we were going to
Pandoar Engergy Inc advisor, Pradeep Ramoutar (far left) and a few others from the Pandor team during the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo
be big in Guyana, we knew that oil was going to be big in Guyana," he explained. The company was founded by Jaikerran
Persaud, who passed just a few weeks ago. He was a Guyanese who had spent over 25 years working in the oil and gas indus-
try overseas and recognised the potential for growth back home.
“The founder of Pandora, Jaikerran Persaud, came back and started his business. He gave us the ideas. And we just wanted to come here. So it was a success story,” Pradeep shared.
C oming off of this success, coupled with a passion for young Guyanese, Pandora Energy Inc. has successfully
From the foothills of the South Pakaraimas...
FROM PAGE II
never tire of the scenic views and breathtaking landscape.
The schoolteacher stated that she really likes it there, enjoying the freedom to do things such as picnicking, fishing by the c reek, having freshly caught roast fish at the location, and getting around on horseback.
George reported that there is stillness and calmness about living in Karasabai Village, and having her corralled area to rear cows and other livestock is really all she needs.
She said that she would swing her hammock by the creek to enjoy some peace and quiet at any time without being disturbed. She also enjoys roasting cashews by the fire.
Karasabai Village produces its own cashew nuts, mangoes, and other fruits, such as tamarind, in large quantities, so there is always plenty to eat.
“I like to be able to go to the creek to wash and spend the day doing simple things that bring me joy. Being here provides me with a sense of security, knowing I don’t have to buy certain things
and there is no real threat here—it is safe,” she said.
The Karasabai resident related that she and her husband have 100 cows, and they have a place close to the Ireng River, which serves as an outstation for the animals. The vaqueros are there to watch over their herd.
“I would also take time to visit the location where the cows are kept, and I get there via bicycle with my grandson. We like to take the boat and go fishing in the river—fresh catch is our favourite pastime,” she said.
George told Pepperpot Magazine that her current position at Kar asabai Primary School is headmistress. She started her teaching career before she graduated from Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE).
She related that before she started teaching, her aunt was the headmistress and had taught for many years before retiring in 2014.
The mother of five pointed out that these days, it’s just her, her husband, and some grandchildren at home, since her eldest daughter resides in Brazil, and her three sons
work and live in the same country.
She has another daughter who lives in Lethem, and she visits them from time to time to ensure they continue to bond as a family. Her mother lives in Brazil, and her father resides in Karasabai Village.
George is also the guardian of a child who is from outside the village and stays with her.
At Karasabai Primary School, there are 186 pupils. The school also houses the secondary section in the same compound, with a total enrolment of 500 students. There are 12 teachers in the primary section and 21 teachers at the secondary level.
Apart from all-weather roads and electricity, there is a need for an adequate water supply at the school, which is currently shared with other government buildings.
George also said there is a need for a school bus to provide ease of transport for learners who come from far-off villages. Some walk long distances daily, while othe rs ride bicycles, travel on horseback, or get dropped off by motorcycles.
Powered By...
FROM PAGE VI
Just a few of the young men and women who have
trained hundreds of young men and women in the past several years.
One of the main aims of Pandora Energy is to equip individuals with the right skills that are crucial for success in the oil and gas sector. The company has developed a comprehensive training and certification process that begins with basic cadet training at maritime institutes. "Right no w, you need some basic cadet training. Once they come from there, we have a cadet programme," he explained. Pandora has created a space for diversity as well, having a team of cadets and trainees from all across Guyana, skilled in var-
ious fields.
Since the launch of their cadet programme in 2021, Pandora Energy has seen significant engagement from aspiring professionals.
Participants are trained in various specialisations, from engineering to marine operations.
"So as soon as they come out of training, whether they want to be an AV, they want to be an engineer, they want to be an electrical engineer—we train them for all of that," Pradeep said. However, he emphasised that passing examinations is still a prerequisite for career advancement.
"You still have to do the exams and pass the exams. So someone could start as a normal
sailor and they could finish as an officer on a bridge," he added.
The recruitment process at Pandora Energy is designed to ensure that local talent is effectively matched with growing industry needs. Before the introduction of local content re gulations, the firm successfully placed individuals on supply vessels, but Pradeep noted that this was not as extensive as desired. "Before the local contract was passed, we had placed guys on these supply vessels. But it's not as much as we wanted," he said. Now, Pandora is able to train more men and women than ever before.
As oil and gas con-
tinues to grow, more women continue to pick up the mantle and go aboard ships. As Pradeep explains, Pandora continues to see more women aspiring to be sailors, engineers, and captains, and Pandora is committed to supporting this shift. "It's mostly dominated by men. But we have and still have female cadets. Cadets that are still in the programme with us today," he said.
The impact of Pandora Energy's training initiatives is significant.
"We have over 120 seafarers right now," Pradeep highlighted, demonstrating the growing pool of qualified professionals entering the industry. The training programmes
encompass various aspects of offshore safety, preparing participants for the challenges they will face in the field.
"We train them in the helicopter, water safety, firefighter safety. There's a lot of safety training. Because when they are at sea, we do not know what can happen, and we want them to be prepared," he explained. With numerous companies, both Guyanese and international, venturing into oil and gas, Pandora is among just a handful dedicated to ensuring Guyanese have a bigger role to play. As Pradeep shared, "We have been at the forefront in pushing Guyanese to work here. Because the in -
dustry is in Guyana. We are at the precipice now—bigger than ever," he stated.
As Guyana continues to develop its oil and gas industry, Pandora Energy Inc. and similar counterparts stand as beacons of hope for aspiring professionals. Through its compr ehensive training programmes and commitment to local talent, the firm is shaping the future of the energy sector in Guyana. With a focus on inclusion and skill development, Pandora Energy is not just creating jobs but building a sustainable workforce equipped to navigate the challenges of an evolving industry.
successfully finsihed training at Pandora Engergy Inc
Over the Top in...
the past few years and has a collection of her paintings at home. She recently represented Tagore Memorial Secondary at the Guy-
academics but we give them exposure to other areas also, such as sports, cultural events, and hobbies.”
He reported that
tributed to her ability to write poems herself. I introduced both of my children to the National Library at an early age. As soon as they started
ana-China Friendship Youth Leadership Development Competition and placed first for Region Six.
A Brilliant Girl
According to Vishal Narine, a former teacher who is now the Education Officer for Region Si x, “We try our best to make both the children enjoy a rounded childhood, not only the
when Nitya was a smaller child growing up, he would give her stories and interviews of the top students from every NGSA and CSEC exam for her to read so she could understand what it takes to become a top student. Since she loved reading from a young age, this exposure was beneficial.
“Reading has con -
in nursery school, Nitya was more advanced than her friends, and as she grew, she continued to excel in her studies and everything else she undertook, be it projects or schoolwork.
Mrs Narine pointed out that from infancy, Nitya demonstrated great potential—she could read, write, and do many things as a young child, and it was amazing to see her grow into an intelligent teenager.
She revealed that Nitya always loved to draw and colour as a child. It started at the nursery level, and as the years
went on, she began to develop into an artist, using acrylic paint.
“Nitya is a blessed child. With minimal guidance, she knows what she has to do and completes schoolwork and other tasks ahead of time. She is a genius at time management and gets everything done,” Mrs Narine said.
She added that she is very proud to be the mother of such a brilliant girl, who is a quiet c hild but comes alive whenever she has to perform or lead.
Nitya told Pepperpot Magazine that reading
played a vital role in her education, but she has always loved to draw. It was an inborn skill she sharpened into an artistic talent, and she now paints beautiful pieces.
“I always loved drawing. I would spend time doing drawings and colouring as a child. My skills peaked during COVID-19 when I was at home, and I started painting pastels,” she said.
Nitya is a science stream student at Tagore Memorial Secondary School, and she aspires to become a doctor.
primary school, they joined it and have been reading ever since,” Vishal said.
Nitya’s mother, a school teacher, Fareza Narine, told Pepperpot Magazine that from birth, she realised that her daughter wasn’t the average child, as she exhibited great knowledge at a tender age.
She stated that even
Nitya Vaishnavi Narine
Breaking the...
he explained to The Pepperpot Magazine, "Teachers can't manage seizures. And there have been instances in Guyana where students, young people wi th seizures, if not epilepsy, are asked to leave school. This has happened. So, the cumulative effect could ul timately affect people's livelihoods."
He also noted that seizures can manifest in different ways, adding, "When I was getting my seizures, these different kinds of seizures, I mentioned absence seizures. Sometimes it could be simple twitch-
ing, touching of one's skin. All of that could be a form of epilepsy. In my case, the stiffening and the jerking, I experienced this at any time, at any place. That's the nature of seizures."
One of the lesser-known seizure types is absence seizures, which can cause learning challenges. "There i s a very mild form known as absence seizures, where people si mply lose attention and they space out," he said. "And this bothers us particularly in the case of children who are learning. Because any learning loss
that might happen once or tw ice tends to accumulate over time. The cumulative effect could be that a child is unable to complete school. Another reason why children often do not complete school is because of the misunderstanding."
One of the most interesting and little-known facts about epileps y is that while seizures are uncontrollable, people suffering from epilepsy say they can feel when they are about to have one.
For Thomas, it felt like what he could only describe as "a tumbling in his head." "It could
be a smell, it could be a feeling. In my case, it was a feeling, and I can only describe it as a tumbling in my head. Now that I know it was triggered by brain activity, I can relate to that notion and identify it as a sort of a tumbling
no longer has seizures, something not many people thought would be a possibility.
"At a certain point in time, I stopped getting seizures. I became an epileptic in remission, if you will, and that's important to know as
raising awareness is Vice President of the EFG, Deidre Ifill. Having been a part of the foundation for several years, coupled with her experience in social work, Deidre dispelled a few popular myths that people may still
in my head."
He further added, "I recall particularly riding my bicycle—I was at Camp Street— and I had a seizure. I remember when I was in the United States, I was in a cinema, and I got a seizure. I had just stepped off a train and got a seizure, and it was cold, it was snowing."
Now, decades later, Thomas’ journey with epilepsy took a positive turn. Today he
well," he shared. He further explained, "It is possible that after being managed and having one's seizures controlled so that one is seizure-free for a period of time, a doctor might say—you should always have a doctor—‘Let me wean you off the medication, and let's manage the process.’"
Myths and Misconceptions Another voice in
believe when it comes to dealing with a person having a seizure. As she explained, "People believe that with that type of seizure, you could bite your tongue off or you could swallow your tongue. I just want to reiterate that that is not possible. Some things that you should avoid doing when a person is having a seizure, especially of that nature,
Economics Lecturer and Founder of the Guyana Epilepsy Foundation, Dr. Thomas Singh (Samuel Maughn photo)
Breaking the...
FROM PAGE X
include trying to put anything in the person's mouth."
She further added, "We as Guyanese tend to rush to the spoon. I don’t know what meaning or attachment they have to the spoon, but we have a tendency to put a spoon in the mouth of someone having a seizure. We also see salt in hands, splashing water on people—all of these are no-nos."
Moreover , Deidre shared that most sei -
zures last between 1 t o 5 minutes, and it’s best to let that period run its course. In the rare cases that a seizure lasts for longer, we are encouraged to get medical help as soon as possible.
Although we may be tempted to perform some of the longheld Guyanese remedies when we are in the company of someone having a seizure, Deidre shares a few of the correct practices.
"If a person is having a seizure, you need to ensure that people around
them know they suffer from epilepsy or seizures. Letting persons know in advance what to do is a big step."
Ac cording to Deidre, being open and speaking about epilepsy is a significant step in reducing stigma.
"T he more people know about epilepsy, the better it is for those living with it and the people around them. If someone is having a seizure, the first thing to do is ensure they are lying safely on the ground. Clear away anything that might
hurt them, and if possible, turn them on their side. If not, let them run the course of the seizure. Timing the seizure is crucial."
Unde rstanding epilepsy, dispelling myths, and ensuring proper response are essential in breaking the stigma. Through awareness, education, and advocacy, epilepsy no longer has to be a condition that isolates individuals but rather one that unites communities in support and care.
Licensing of the Wildlife Trade in Guyana
GUYANA is a country blessed with numerous natural resources. This includes our wild fauna and flora, which some persons utilise to make a living by hunting, trapping, selling, and exporting. To ensure the sustainability of the trade, the Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission (GWCMC) is responsible for implementing systems to manage the trade of wildlife in Guyana. This system is known as the Licensing and Permitting System. There are two aspects
to the wildlife trade: international and domestic (local). International Trade Internationally, the trade of wildlife is governed by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). In Guyana, the GWCMC is the CITES Management Authority and is, therefore, the organisation responsible for managing t he wildlife trade. As such, under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act (2016), a system of permits and licences is issued for the import, export,
re-export, or introduction from the sea of any specimen of wildlife.
To obtain the necessary licences for international trade, the following steps must be completed:
1. Submission of a completed application form for the licence being applied for
2. Submission of the following documents:
o National Identification Card, Driver’s Licence, Passport, or any other form of national identification.
o If a registered busi-
ness, a sealed certified copy of the Business Registration.
o In the case of a company, sealed and certified copies of the following documents:
1 Certificate of Incorporation
2 Articles of Association
3. Notice of Directors
o C opy of Transport, Rental, or Lease Agreement for Holding Premises.
3. Attendance of an interview. This step is applicable to all new applicants and may also apply to some re-applicants.
Currently, a maximum of 25 persons are allowed to engage in international trade. Addi tionally, to manage the amount of wildlife that is traded, the GWCMC implements a quota system. There is a national quota, which is the total number of a particular species allowed to be exported within a year, while each exporter also has an individual quota that
they must adhere to.
Domestic Trade
There are six (6) categories of licences that apply to persons engaged in local wildlife trade:
• W ildlife Trapping Licence
• Wildlife Commercial Licence
• Wildlife Collecting Licence
• Wildlife Recreational Licence
• Captive Wildlife Licence
• Special Wildlife Licence
Indigenous Village Councils may also need to apply for a licence to cover wildlife users who are registered members of the village.
Each licence will specify the sizes, numbers, and species of wildlife covered under the user ’s activities, as well as the locations where the individual is allowed to carry out these activities.
1. An appl ication form.
2. National Identification Card or Passport (original and copy, front and back).
3 Two (2) recent passport-size photos.
4. T IN Certificate (original and copy).
5. Fi rearm Licence (original and copy) for hunters only.
6 Proof of adequate housing for trapped wildlife (for trappers and middlemen).
7. Food Handling Certificate (for restaurants, cookshops, and rum shops/bars). Applications are vetted by the Commission, and once approved, the applicant is required to pay the corresponding fee.
For more information on the wildlife trade, visit: wildlife.gov.gy/licensing-procedure.
To obtain a licence for any category of wildlife use, applicants must submit the following:
A brief summary of the economic rise of our Guyana from the inception of colonies, plantations, and slave labour
AS we celebrate the Revolution of Kofi in 1763 in 2025, we must expand our reflections to recognise that every county of the three former colonies of Guiana—Berbice, Essequibo, and Demerara—is deeply entangled in the historical narrative that shaped our nation. They all share a
common debt of slavery and resistance. However, Demerara can be argued as the most significant in the rise of Guyana’s early colonial economy, emerging as a key site of economic movement, albeit one shrouded in the shadows of chattel slavery. We cannot ignore this
fact as we conclude this year’s Black History Month. To add clarity, we must reflect on the presence of the Dutch leader Laurens Storm van Gravesande, Commandeur of Essequibo and later Director-General of the colonies of Berbice and Demerara (1750–1772). Wars in Europe and shifting alliances
perhaps provided the impetus to open the Dutch colony to English planters—aspiring plantation owners.
One crucial aspect of our national heritage is understanding the process by which Demerara was established as a viable plantation colony. First, this required reclaiming land from the
sea. The records of the Venn Sugar Commission of 1948 estimated that each square mile of cane cultivation required the construction of forty-nine miles of drainage canals and ditches, along with sixteen miles of higher-level waterways used for transportation and irrigation. The commissioners noted
that the original construction of these waterways must have involved moving at least 100 million tons of soil. This meant that enslaved people, armed only with shovels, moved 100 million tons of heavy, waterlogged clay while enduring perpetual mud and water and
TURN TO PAGE XX
WHEN LOVE WALKED INTO HER LIFE III
RACHEL didn’t sleep well that night, still feeling the soft touch of his lips and seeing that deep attraction in his eyes. For him, age didn’t seem to matter.
“What do I do?” she voiced helplessly, torn between her deep feelings for him and the age factor.
“How do I tell my children that I think I am falling in love with someone
fourteen years younger? What would they say?”
That uncertainty weighed heavily on her mind, compounded by the fear that he could one day betray her—just like her
ex-husband had.
“I won’t be able to go through another heartache,” she whispered. She had thought she had found the love of her
TURN TO PAGE XXII
A brief summary of the economic rise of our...
competing with the hazardous creatures of that habitat. The number who perished during this gruelling process was not recorded. Yet, it was through their labour that the humanisation of the Guyanese coastal environment in Demerara was achieved.
This process also involved extensive construction work on the kokers (sluice gates) and canals. While the Dutch, whose homeland was constantly threatened by the sea, perfected the science of the kokers, it was the French
who commanded the construction of two canals that would border Stabroek. When the French took Stabroek from the English, Admiral the Comte de Kersaint, in 1782, initiated the proclamation that:
"Religion would have a
temple, justice a place, war its arsenals, commerce would have its counting house, and industry its factories, where the inhabitants may enjoy the advantages of social intercourse."
The French Admiral also ordered enslaved labourers,
forcibly taken from grumbling plantation owners, to dig two canals—the North Canal, corresponding to present-day Croal Street, and the South Canal, corresponding to Hadfield Street. These canals surrounded Stabroek in 1773.
Again, we must pause in solemn reflection, acknowledging that the physical toil and hardship of our enslaved ancestors laid the foundations for the initial civilising of our native land. Happy Mashramani to the nation!
THE CORENTYNE RIVER BRIDGE AWAKENS THE DORMANT TRUTH THAT SURINAME AND GUYANA ARE DESTINED TO TRAVERSE HISTORY HAND-IN-HAND
OF any two countries in the world, Guyana and Suriname are the closest, not merely geographically but in their culture and psyche. They share a common history, each being a British and Dutch colony at various periods, and their laws and governmental systems are essentially the same. Indeed, un -
til 1917, Guyana used Roman-Dutch Law, the same law as Suriname, and Surinamese lawyers practised at the Guyana Bar.
Though Dutch is the official language, Sranan Tongo, once known as "Talkie-talkie", is the universally spoken language in Suriname. Sranan Tongo is an English Creole,
and as such, Guyanese would be able to learn it in two to three months. The Bhojpuri dialect of Hindi is also widely understood and spoken in the Indian community, as it is in rural Guyana.
For the last two centuries, Guyanese have been emigrating to Suriname and Surinamese to Guyana, with all immigrants
becoming fully integrated into the host community without notice. During the 1970s and 1980s, for instance, when Guyana was experiencing a period of intense economic, political, and social distress, Surinamese smuggled much-needed foodstuffs to Guyana against the wishes of their bureaucracy, which feared this
would result in shortages in Suriname. They also accepted over 60,000 Guyanese fleeing from the hunger, hardships, and hopelessness that then pervaded Guyana.
The bridging of the Corentyne River is, therefore, a very popular project, as it would link both countries and, in effect, physically tie them together.
The Corentyne River Bridge Project Plans for the construction of the Corentyne River Bridge are in a very advanced stage. The bridge will be 3.1 kilometres in length and will stretch from Moleson Creek on the Guyana side to South Drain in Suriname, with
WHEN LOVE...
PAGE XIX
life when she met her husband and had given her heart and soul to the years they spent together—until that shocking revelation. It hadn’t been easy dealing with that kind of pain, and the healing process took a long time as she picked up the shattered pieces of her life. In her own quiet way, she had battled the emptiness and loneliness, never once considering meeting someone else.
Then, that day when she grabbed hold of a total stranger on the road, something unexpected happened.
“What is my heart telling me?” she wondered.
She buried her face in the pillow, unwilling to answer that question or acknowledge her feelings.
Yet, when she awoke late the next morning, the first thing on her mind was him—Chris. He had messaged her early while she was asleep, and she smiled after reading the text.
“Always with some kind of humour.”
They spoke for a while as she had breakfast, and he somehow managed to take some of the worry off her mind.
“All you have to do is remember the dog.”
She laughed a little, for it was indeed an unforgettable and funny moment.
“And that little laughter just made my day,” he said. “Talk to you later.”
She took a long, refreshing bath and relaxed a little before the children came home. As usual, they were happy to be back.
“Wonderful weekend?” she asked.
“Yes!” they answered in unison.
“We won’t be going next week, though,” Aiden informed her.
“Why?”
“Dad will call you later, but I guess we can tell you now. He’s taking Meredith to Paris for her birthday.”
“Oh, nice,” Rachel exclaimed softly.
The two children looked at her, their expressions a little sad.
“That should have been you, Mum.”
She sighed and embraced them. “We’re past that, okay? And I’m doing fine.”
That evening, as they sat down to dinner, Aiden said, “There’s something Sarah and I would like to say to you.”
“What is it?”
The children exchanged glances, hesitating a little.
“Well?” she urged them.
“We think you need to have a boyfriend,” Aiden stated.
Rachel froze and looked at her children, taken aback with surprise.
“What?”
“You’re not having any fun in your life,” Aiden pointed out.
“And you don’t smile and laugh much anymore,” Sarah added.
Rachel looked at her children and took a deep breath, realising they were right. She responded in a calm tone, “I know I’ve been living a quiet, simple life, but I’m okay with it.”
“You need to change your life a little,” the children advised.
“Really? My eightand ten-year-olds advising me to have a boyfriend?”
They nodded with innocent smiles, and Rachel couldn’t help smiling, shaking her head in disbelief.
“You know, it’s not that easy. But I can give it some thought.”
Lying in bed that night, she reflected on her children’s advice, knowing it stemmed from seeing how their father was living his life—and realising that she deserved some fun and happiness too. She knew what she was missing, silently battling loneliness, longing for someone to share special moments with.
Now that he had walked into her life, she wasn’t sure how close to let him in, as fear and uncertainty stood between them.
She had to find a way to overcome those hurdles.
That weekend, she and the kids had a packed schedule—watching a basketball game, spending time at the park, enjoying ice cream, and shopping. As they passed a boutique, Sarah pointed to a red mini dress in the store’s window and
WHEN LOVE...
FROM PAGE XXII
said, “That will look really good on you.”
The next day, Rachel went to the store and bought the dress.
“Guess I’ll have to make a few changes to my wardrobe, given that I was advised to find a boyfriend,” she chuckled.
Chris called after returning from a week-long project and said, “I miss you. Can I see you this weekend?”
“I miss you too,” was her silent response. After a short pause, she told him, “Yes.”
He came that Saturday night with flowers and a bottle of wine. She had cooked dinner and was wearing the red mini dress.
“Sensuous!” he expressed with an admiring smile.
It was a lovely evening with a touch of intimacy that filled her with warmth. He didn’t want to leave, and, overpowered by his closeness and invigorating masculine scent, she didn’t want him to leave either.
It was a night of passion and bliss as she surrendered to desires she had locked away for years. In that moment, the world seemed not to matter.
And so it began—the change in her life, the way she smiled, her laughter. Her children were happy for her, and her friends were ecstatic about it all.
Rachel looked at her reflection in the bathroom mirror and saw a glow on her face that came from the happiness within. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, asking herself, Could this last? Would it stay with me?
They became very close, and she invited him to meet her children so she could cross the first hurdle in her mind—the age factor. It went better than expected, with hardly any questions, for they liked him.
Sarah observed, “It doesn’t matter that he’s younger. What matters is that he likes you.”
“How would you know that?”
“The way he looked at you.”
That, coming from her eight-year-old, surprised Rachel again.
Aiden, the boy he was, was impressed with
Chris’s knowledge and love for basketball and car racing. He said to Rachel quietly, “If he asks you to marry him, you can say yes.”
“Wow!” she exclaimed with a little laugh.
Now, only one thing weighed on her mind.
Chris knew it, and he told her, “When you’re in my arms, I can feel every vibe coming through your body, and I have felt that fear. But I want you to believe in me and trust me.”
“ I so want to,” she had whispered. This time, it was different. This deep feeling of love was unique in its own way.
Chris left a few days later to visit project sites and told her, “I can also change my job so I don’t have to travel too often. We’ll discuss it when I return.”
But one week later, she received a call. He had met with an accident at the work site and was taken to hospital.
“Oh God, no,” she cried.
That message sent her heart racing. At that moment, every other worry in her mind dissipated as she prayed fervently on her way to the hospital, “Please, God, let him be okay.”
His injuries were not too serious, and her tears flowed in relief as she sat by his bedside.
“Hey,” he touched her hand and said weakly, “Don’t cry. I’ll be fine.”
She wiped her tears and inhaled deeply, now free from that nagging fear. She leaned in and said softly, “I want you to know how much you have made my world brighter. I love you more than I can truly say.”
He smiled with relief and said, “You know, if I had known an accident could have made you open your heart to me, I could have had it arranged.”
She laughed. “You’re hurt and can still be funny.”
“Because it makes you laugh, and that is a beautiful sound I love.”
He lifted her hand to his lips and kissed it.
“From the moment I saw you, I knew I wanted you in my life. And I will love you and make you happy.”
a landing on Long Island in the river, where a commercial hub and tourist destination will be established.
That duty-free zone is expected to see major infrastructural development, including:
• Hotels
• Recreational parks
• Malls
• Entertainment spots
• Farmers' markets
• O ther tourist attractions
The bridge is expected to intensify regional trade, ease transportation, and create a corridor for significant economic development. It will not only link Suriname and Guyana but will also open up greater economic opportunities beyond into French Guiana and, through the road network being developed, into Brazil. The bridge will serve as a conduit for Guyana’s exports and will accelerate Suriname’s industrialisation and general economic development.
Funding and Construction Six international contracting companies—five Chinese and one Dutch— submitted bids for the construction of the bridge. Initially, the project was planned on a model where the contractor would be responsible for:
• Design
• Construction
• Financing
• Op eration and maintenance
This would also include a public-private partnership. However, two of the bidding companies have since indicated that they were unable to meet the pre-financing requirements.
The financial outlay for the bridge will be borne by both Suriname and Guyana, and Guyana has indicated that it is ready with its share.
Strengthening bilateral and economic ties
The bridge and its construction have provided an entrée for both countries to strengthen bilateral and economic ties. These will focus on:
Agriculture
Guyana’s proactive Minister of Agriculture has initiated a veritable agricultural revolution in all segments of agriculture, including:
• Fishing
• Lives tock and poultry production
• Sugar cultivation
• Rice production
• Spices
• New crops such as soya and corn
Guyana has been working towards satisfying CARICOM’s food imports of over US$6 billion.
Oil and Gas
Suriname is geared to become a major oil producer, and in both agriculture and oil, Guyana could provide valuable help and co-operation to assist Suriname in reaching the next level.
Surinamese companies have already begun establishing operations in Guyana, with the Head of the Guyana Office for Investment, Dr. Ramsaroop, estimating that 50 Surinamese businesses are now operating in Guyana. Likewise, Guyanese companies have been setting up businesses in Suriname.
The cultural and educational impact
While the bridge is primarily an economic initiative, its spinoffs will extend into the cultural and educational spheres. Economic cooperation and development will naturally lead to greater cultural exchanges and academic collaborations.
With all these areas and levels of co-operation, Guyana and Suriname could, in effect, blossom into a de facto confederation. Over time, the New River Triangle dispute will fade away as co-operation intensifies, reducing tensions.
Guyana must always remember that Suriname supports Guyana in the Venezuela-Guyana border controversy despite the New River Triangle dispute. This demonstrates that both countries have more to gain from unity than division. FROM PAGE XXI
A call for more food banks in Guyana to address food insecurity
THE United Nations Sustainable Development Goals are outlined to ensure that priorities are placed on key social needs and issues. Among these goals, ending hunger is listed as th e second priority to
be achieved by the year 2030. Unfortunately, in a world of plenty, many people still lack basic necessities such as food. As such, initiatives like food banks exist. I am writing this week’s column with Guyana’s
hungry, less fortunate citizens in mind because we need more functional and well-publicised food banks in Guyana.
Food banks play an essential role in feeding the hungry and addressing
TURN TO PAGE XXVI
A call for more food...
food insecurity in underprivileged communities. Non-profit organisations usually run them in collaboration with other groups, such as shelters or local food producers. The most important aspect of food banks is ensuring that the food provided is both nutritious and accessible to those in need. Nutritious food is limited for many people, which ultimately leads to health complications. It is, therefore, crucial that we distribute high-quality food rather than simply giving food for the sake of giving.
Food banks can be described as vital safety nets within communities.
You might think they only cater to the homeless or destitute, but you would be surprised by the number of people who live as “regular citizens” among us daily yet struggle to afford food. Families facing financial hardship, unemployment, illness, or any sudden crisis can also benefit from food banks. Many individuals find themselves in need of food due to an unexpected crisis they had no way of planning for. As such, food banks can serve as an emergency reserve for those in distress.
More than just a means of distributing food, food banks serve as a holistic support system in the fight
against food insecurity and hunger. They can provide nutritional plans or guidance, offer monthly food assistance or groceries to families in need, and raise awareness about the root causes of hunger— su ch as unemployment and social inequality. Additionally, food banks can lobby for policy reforms that focus on reducing food waste and ensuring more families have access to adequate meals.
Can you imagine if Guyana had active, well-managed food banks operating daily in all ten of our administrative regions? At present, similar ef forts are mirrored in churches and communi -
ty groups, but these are usually limited to special occasions or short-term initiatives. A food bank needs to be reliable and actively functioning every day because hunger is not limited to Christmas or special holidays—it is a daily reality for many.
If you are considering a social justice initiative or community service project, I hope you take this idea into consideration for any community i n Guyana. Food banks address short-term food insecurity by providing hot meals to those in need while also working on long-term solutions to prevent hunger. However, it is important to
note that food banks are not a substitute for longterm policy reforms that address the root causes of hunger. The food provided is a quick fix to a deeper, more complex system of economic and social inequality.
While we wait for food banks to be properly established across Guyana, we can still support our local churches and other existing groups that work tirelessly to provide food, even if only on special occasions. I am sure that the main obstacle to expanding these efforts is limited funding.
This week, I challenge all my readers to cook some extra rice and cur-
ry—or whatever meal you are preparing—and share it with someone in need, whether a destitute person on the road or a struggling family. If you would like to take this further and create real social action, consider partnering with local bakeries or food shops to collect surplus food and distribute it within your community. You can also use social media to organise food donations and set up a pop-up food bank for a short period at a designated location.
In the words of Mother Teresa, “If you can’t feed a hundred hungry people, just feed one.”
STUDY SUCCESS
Dear Student,
Welcome dear reading friend. Let us overhaul again your ability to understand the writer’s intention and attitude. Aim to become skilled enough to r ecognise text type, what the author is saying, his intention, attitude and tone; if not, you can easily misunderstand the whole
passage, even though you have understood all the sentences. It is important to train yourself to ask pertinent questions before you deal with a more detailed comprehension of the passage. Be wise.
Love you
THE PASSAGE
Comprehension of a passage
Note: You are again im-
plored to recognise that any comprehension exercise at your examination is meant to test your ability to understand and retain the contents of a given passage. Comprehension of passages tests a student’s understanding of the writers’ language and consists of questions based on whatever texts (one or more paragraphs, or a poem or part thereof, or some
February 23, 2025
other).
It is healthy to practise comprehension of various text types as it supports your foundational development for higher-level thinking across various subject areas.
What to do:
Find a suitably challenging passage, read it, and answer all the questions or create your own as you go. Discuss your effort with a close study partner.
IMPROVING WRITING
Types of writing organisation
Note: All writers choose formats in which they excel; you should do that too. Let us review several types of organisations that writers use to present information clearly to their readers and accurately say what they are writing about. Today we look at two insights into common plans for writing: chronological organisation and cause-and-effect organisation.
1) Chronological organisation:
In this type of structure, the events are related in the order of time by which each event occurs or occurred. This organisation is especially effective if the writer is describing a process, relaying a series of actions, or telling a story.
a) Chronological organisation in fiction or narrative writing: Here the order of chronological presentation in fiction or narrative writing is more subtle than in non-fiction. When this approach is used in literature, it is called ‘sequence of events.’ It is a linear organisation and most traditionally found in story writing. It usually has no dates, no multiple timelines, and little to no use of flashbacks or flashforwards.
b) Chronological organisation in non-fiction writing:
This organisation consists of a series of events written in order of time for understanding and appreciation. It may often contain dates. The writer may write what happened first, second, third... The chronological non-fiction organisation is also called
THOUGHT FOR TODAY
You must never go down to the end of the town if you don’t go down with me.
A.A. MILNE
a time or linear order of relating a process.
2) Cause-and-effect organisation:
Here the writer examines the relationship between a condition or an event and its effects or result(s), or its origins. His organisation can consist of the main cause and a main effect or the main causes and the main effects.
There are two primary ways in which this essay can be s tructured. The writer can start with the cause and then write about the effects or start with the effects and then write about the cause(s) as suits his case. Chronological order is regarded as the best way to show cause-and-effect.
THE EXCERPT
Chronological order depicted in “The Finish of Patsy Barnes”
Read the following passage below carefully and then ans wer all the questions that follow.
The crowd in the stand screamed; but Patsy smiled as he lay low over his horse’s neck. He saw that Essex had made his best spurt. His only fear was Mosquito, who hugged and hugged his flank. They were nearing the three-quarter post, and he was tightening his grip on the black. Essex fell back; his spurt was over.
Black boy’s breath touches the leader’s ear. They are neck and neck –nose to nose. The black stallion passes him.
Another cheer from the crowd, and again Patsy smiles as they turn into the stretch. Mosquito has gained a head. The coloured boy flashes one glance at the horse and rider who are so surely gaining upon him, and his close is a grim line. They are half-way down the stretch, and Mosquito’s head is at the stallion’s neck.
For a single moment Patsy thinks of the sick woman at home and what the race will mean to her, and then his knees close against the horse’s sides with a firmer dig. The spurs shoot deeper into the steaming flanks. Black Boy shall win; he must win. The horse that has taken away his father shall give him back his mother. The stallion leaps away like a flash, he goes under the wire – a length ahead.
Then the band thundered, ....
“You little devil,” Blackett cried.... And he began sticking bank notes at the boy......
“Going out to spend it?” he asked.
“I’m goin’ for a doctah fu’ my mother,” said Patsy An hour later he walked into his mother’s room with a very big doctor, the greatest the druggist could direct him to. The doctor left his medicines and his orders, but, when Patsy told his story, it was Eliza’s pride that started her on the road to recovery. Patsy did not tell the horse’s name.
What to do:
1. Read the story excerpt once more and point out to your study group your findings that the order of its writing is clearly chronological.
2. What pieces have you put together about Patsy Barnes’ character? Write them down. See how much the group agrees with your findings.
3. What circumstances gave Patsy extra motivation to win?
4. Explore the language of the writer and make two observations.
5. What does the last paragraph say about the relationship between Patsy’s mother and him?
Removing a tooth’s brain
I WOULD doubt if any aspect of medical science recommends the removal of a subject’s brain to improve their well-being. However, it is highly probable that only in dentistry—and specifically in the procedure of root canal treatment—the objective is to remove the brain of the offending tooth.
Root canal treatment (commonly referred to simply as root canal by most p atients) remains one of the mysteries of dentistry from the perspective of the average person. Root canal treatment is required when the blood or nerve supply of the tooth (which effectively constitutes its brain) becomes infected through decay or injury. As a result, the tooth becomes literally lifeless and is incapable of eliciting pain.
If the pulp becomes infected, the infection will spread through the root canal system of the tooth, which may eventually lead to an abscess. If root canal treatment is not carried out, the infection will continue to spread, and the tooth may need to be removed.
The procedure is painless because local anaesthetic is used, making it feel no different from having an ordinary filling done. The aim of the treatment is to remove all infections from the root canal. The root is then cleaned and filled to prevent any further infection.
Root canal treatment is a skilled and time-consuming procedure, often requiring two or more visits to your dentist. At the first appointment, the infected pulp is removed. Any abscesses
present can also be drained at this time. The root canal is then cleaned and shaped, ready for filling. A temporary filling is inserted, and the tooth is left to settle. At a later visit, the tooth is checked, and when all the infection has cleared, it is permanently filled.
In the past, a root-filled tooth would often darken after treatment. However, with modern techniques, this does not usually happen. If discolouration does occur, several treatments are available to restore the tooth’s natural appearance. Root canal treatment is usually very successful. However, if an infection recurs, the procedure can be repeated.
Root canal treatment (RCT) is generally one of the more costly dental procedures due to the length of time required, as well as the skill and materials involved. However, it is a worthwhile investment when one considers that it is the only way to save a tooth in very poor condition.
The alternative to RCT is tooth extraction. Once the pulp is destroyed, it cannot heal, and it is not advisable to leave an infected tooth in the mouth. While some people may prefer an extraction, it is usually recommended to keep as many natural teeth as possible.
Afte r treatment, the tooth will be safe, though it is advisable to restore it with a crown to provide extra support, strength, and a natural appearance. Additionally, regular dental check-ups are essential to ensure continued oral health.
