Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 19-08-2026 by Guyana Chronicle

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No.1081881

Six regional hospitals delivering major gains in healthcare access 12 PAGE

President Ali maintains all assets have been declared –– points to need for credibility of US-indicted Azruddin Mohamed and his allegations to be questioned

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Education Minister says improved CXC results CoI to determine my 02 will be followed by long-term reforms 14 actions – President Ali PAGE

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–– Parag moves to strengthen secondary education with new task force

–– groundwork to begin in early September

–– says gov’t remains committed to providing long-term support to those affected

Guyana’s fifth FPSO to push oil output beyond 1M barrels per day PAGE

— President Ali outlines rising national oil share

Attorney General warns unlawful protests can lead to arrest, charges Minister of Education, Sonia Parag (centre), flanked by the outstanding students that delivered exceptional performances in this year’s examinations (Elton John photo)

Agriculture Ministry moves to link farmers directly with hospitality sector 18 PAGE

Guyana explores maritime expansion, flag State recognition in talks with ABS and Hanwha Shipping 19 PAGE

–– says constitutional right to protest does not extend to disrupting meetings or infringing on the rights of others

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CoI to determine my actions – President Ali

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 19, 2026

– groundwork to begin in early September

–– says gov’t remains committed to providing long-term support to those affected PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali told reporters on Tuesday that an independent Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the MV Barima tragedy will determine any subsequent action by his administration. The President stressed the need to allow the COI to carry out a “thorough, transparent and impartial” investigation and said he would not prejudice its work. He added that the COI is finalising its procedures and is expected to begin its on-the-ground work in early September.

He further assured families affected by the MV Barima tragedy that the Government’s priority is their welfare. He noted that the State has established the Heart Initiative, a long-term, multi-stakeholder programme to provide medical, mental health, spiritual and financial support to those who lost loved ones and survivors. “The priority for the Government is to ensure that we work closely with the families in relation to the MV Barima. When I say families

here, I’m not only speaking of families who would have lost loved ones; families here where persons are still missing, families that were working on the vessel,” he said during a press conference. He added that an outreach plan is being rolled out to create regional support hubs across the country. “The priority is to ensure, especially where children, women, parents are involved, to ensure that we have close connection from the Ministry of Health, See page 3

L-R: Dr Andrzej Jasionowski of Poland, Nyree Dawn Alfonso of Trinidad and Tobago, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Captain Hamada Fouda of Jamaica, and Rear Admiral (Ret’d) Hayden A Pritchard of Trinidad and Tobago during the swearing-in ceremony for the Commission of Inquiry into the MV Barima tragedy

President Ali maintains all assets have been declared 3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 19, 2026

–– points to need for credibility of US-indicted Azruddin Mohamed and his allegations to be questioned

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali on Tuesday maintained that all his assets, including his farm, have been fully declared to the Integrity Commission, as he questioned the credibility of corruption allegations levelled against him by We Invest in Nationhood leader Azruddin Mohamed. Responding to questions at a press conference, Dr. Ali dismissed claims that he owns a 150-acre “multi-million-dollar” ranch, saying the property is “60-plus acres”, and that the figure being circulated is “not even half” of what has been alleged. “How credible is the person making the allegations? How credible are the allegations?” the President asked, as he pushed back against claims made by Mohamed, who is currently fighting extradition to the United States, where he faces charges including alleged gold smuggling and money laundering. “First loan was sometime in 2012… I’ve said that I’ve declared every single thing in relation to my farm to the Integrity Commission, and I have a statutory responsibility to do so,” he told reporters.

The President said the property is “60-plus acres”, and stressed that it is “not even half” of what has been alleged. “I have nothing to hide; every single thing that I own has been declared to the Integrity Commission,” Dr. Ali maintained, adding that details had also been documented by his accountant and submitted. He accused Mohamed of deliberately falsifying information for political effect, and questioned his credibility, noting that the accuser himself faces serious allegations overseas. Dr. Ali further criticised what he described as a wider trend of reckless accusations and “headline-driven” narratives, particularly on social media. Mohamed is currently fighting extradition to the United States, where he faces charges related to alleged gold smuggling, money laundering and other offences. Just last month, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) cleared the way for extradition proceedings against Azruddin and his father, businessman Nazar Mohamed, to resume after

the presiding judges unanimously dismissed their appeal challenging the legality of the process initiated against them at the request of the United States. In June 2024, both men and their associated companies were sanctioned by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), a division of the United States Department of the Treasury, over allegations of gold smuggling and large-scale corruption. The sanctions announcement also referenced claims that more than US$50 million in taxes owed to the Guyanese state had been evaded. United States authorities are believed to have begun investigating the Mohameds as far back as the mid-2010s. The probe reportedly involved intelligence-sharing and law-enforcement cooperation between Guyana and the United States. Several American agencies were involved in the investigation, including the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Homeland Security. Prosecutors allege that between 2017 and 2024, the two businessmen partici-

pated in a scheme to export large quantities of gold from Guyana to the United States using falsified customs declarations and reused government export seals. Investigators claim the operation enabled the shipment of more than 10,000 kilogrammes of gold while

President Dr. Irfaan Ali avoiding the payment of taxes and royalties owed to the Guyanese state. The indictment also references a shipment of gold valued at approximately US$5.3 million that was seized at Miami International Airport during the course of the investigation.

Following the indictment, the United States formally sought the surrender of the two men under the extradition arrangements between the two countries, giving rise to the ongoing committal proceedings before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

CoI to determine ... From page 2

Ministry of Human Services with those families,” he said, adding that the Heart Initiative had been established as a longterm, multi-stakeholder programme. Dr Ali also outlined progress on the salvage of the vessel, noting that expressions of interest for the operation have closed and applicants are being shortlisted ahead of price submissions. He did not

give a precise number of expressions of interest received but indicated that there were several. The Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), under the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation, had earlier this month invited qualified marine salvage contractors to submit Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for the recovery of the wrecked passenger and cargo ferry

MV Barima. The MV Barima sank on the night of July 18 while en route from Georgetown to Port Kaituma with an estimated 179 passengers and 17 crew members on board. The vessel capsized in rough seas off the Essequibo coast, triggering the largest maritime search and recovery operation in Guyana’s history. The tragedy claimed 73

lives, while 76 people were rescued and 30 remain missing. When pressed about calls for ministerial suspensions or removals, the President declined to speculate, reiterating that he would not prejudice the COI’s work and would respond to its recommendations in due course. He said only essential measures to ensure immediate safety would be

maintained until the inquiry has outlined its findings. Last month, the five-member commission was formally sworn in at State House, with Chairman and former Belizean Justice of Appeal Justice Godfrey Phillip Smith taking the oath of office virtually. The remaining commissioners—Jamaican maritime surveyor Captain Hamada Fouda; Trin-

idad and Tobago attorney Nyree Dawn Alfonso; Polish naval architect and marine engineer Dr Andrzej Jasionowski; and retired Trinidad and Tobago Rear Admiral Hayden Pritchard—were sworn in in person. Collectively, the panel brings regional and international expertise in law, maritime operations, engineering and disaster investigation.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 19, 2026

VPAC’s Dorwain Bess questions Mohamed’s motives in corruption claims, calls for evidence-based investigations

VIGILANT Political Action Committee (VPAC) leader Dorwain Bess has questioned whether Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed’s continued criticism of the Government is driven by concerns over corruption or by a personal fallout with the administration. Bess, while commenting on recent allegations involving President Dr. Irfaan Ali and persons connected to his administration, said political leaders must move away from personal disputes and focus on investigating allegations of wrongdoing that affect the country. He also cautioned against assuming that individuals are involved in corruption solely because of their relationship with senior government officials. Bess said he had ini-

VPAC leader Dorwain Bess tially planned to publicly criticise the President over allegations surrounding his brother’s connection to a company. However, after reviewing documents, he said he found that the President’s brother does not own any shares in the company but is instead an employee.

“We now have to assume because of his relationship. But there’s evidence showing the President’s brother doesn’t even own one share in this company. He’s merely an employee,” Bess pointed out. Sigma Engineers said Aqtar Ali is engaged by its Guyana operations as a senior technical consultant, but is neither a director nor shareholder of the company. Bess’ comments also extended to Mohamed, whom he accused of potentially having a per-

Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed sonal grievance with the the government. government following an Bess questioned why alleged loss of access to Mohamed would not work opportunities or benefits more closely with other he previously enjoyed. Opposition figures if the B e s s q u e s t i o n e d objective was to remove whether Mohamed’s de- the People’s Progressive cision to highlight alleged Party/Civic (PPP/C) from corruption was motivated office. by a genuine concern for “Are you that much of the public or by his fall- a narcissist?” Bess asked, ing out with those now in while acknowledging that Government. his criticism did not necHe further challenged essarily mean he would Mohamed over his reluc- be unwilling to work with tance to work with other Mohamed in the future. members of the OpposiHe argued that the Option, suggesting that divi- position’s focus should sions within the political be on the wider concerns opposition could under- affecting Guyanese rather mine efforts to challenge than personal disputes between political figures. Bess said previous administrations had also faced allegations of corruption and pointed to controversies surrounding the former Government, including claims involving funds associated with Durban Park and other projects. He stressed, however, that his criticism was not intended to defend the current administration. “I’m not here to defend the government at all, because there isn’t no one here calling the government out more than me,” Bess said. Instead, he argued that continuing to debate which political figure or administration is more corrupt does little to address the problems confronting ordinary citizens. “The point is, while we are pointing who is

more corrupt than who, we are leaving the people to suffer,” he said. Bess said allegations involving public officials and politically connected individuals should be subjected to proper scrutiny and investigation, regardless of which political side is implicated. His comments come amid an increasingly contentious political environment, with Mohamed and other Opposition figures continuing to level allegations of wrongdoing against the government and its officials. Bess said the Opposition must ultimately demonstrate that its efforts are driven by a genuine desire to improve conditions for citizens rather than personal grievances or political rivalries. He also questioned whether Mohamed’s current stance represented a genuine commitment to exposing corruption or was linked to his alleged exclusion from relationships or arrangements that previously benefited him. “ Yo u n e v e r c a l l e d them corrupt when you were benefiting from the corruption,” Bess alleged. “You never highlighted corruption. You never stopped to see the communities that are suffering.” Bess also questioned allegations that Mohamed was overpaid $200 million under a contract he secured from the government, stating the matter should be properly investigated rather than becoming part of a political tit-for-tat. Bess said the central question was whether the allegations were being raised because of concern for the country or because the individuals making them were no longer benefiting from the system they now criticise. “Are you actually exposing it because you care or you’re exposing it because you’re cut out?” he asked.

Guyana’s fifth FPSO to push oil output beyond 1 million barrels per day

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 19, 2026

— President Ali outlines rising national oil share

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali on Tuesday announced that Guyana’s fifth oil production vessel is due to arrive offshore this week, pushing the country’s crude output above 1 million barrels per day for the first time. Speaking at a press conference, the President said the new floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel, built in Singapore at a cost of US$12.7 billion, is expected to deliver first oil in the fourth quarter of 2026. “Our fifth production vessel set sail from Singapore in early August 2026 and is expected to arrive off Guyana’s coast this week, with first oil targeted for the fourth quarter of 2026,” Dr Ali said. The vessel, the largest FPSO to operate in Guyana’s waters to date, is designed to add approximately 250,000 barrels per day, taking total national output to more than 1 million barrels per day. President Ali noted that the country’s four operating FPSOs — Liza Destiny, Liza Unity, Prosperity and One Guyana — are currently producing between 900,000 and 920,000 barrels per day. PROFIT OIL AND COST RECOVERY The Head of State stressed that the production sharing agreement (PSA) governing the Stabroek Block remains unchanged from the 2016 terms. “The production sharing formula has never changed. It remains exactly what was written in the 2016 agreement — royalty first, then up to 75 per cent of production can go to cost recovery, and whatever is left is split evenly between Guyana and the Stabroek co-venturers,” he explained. Dr Ali said Guyana’s share of Stabroek Block oil has risen sharply as the initial capital investments

have been recovered faster than anticipated. “Guyana’s share of Stabroek Block oil has increased from 12.5 per cent to 39.8 per cent. This has occurred because the cost bank has been recovered two years earlier than originally expected,” he said. He explained that previously, 75 out of every 100 barrels produced went towards cost recovery, but that figure has now fallen significantly. “In terms of barrels, 75 of every 100 barrels produced went to cost recovery. Today, only about 20 barrels go to cost. The US$5 billion expenditure was paid off; the cost bank is not saturated or entirely depleted, but the 20 barrels today account for operating and other costs,” the President outlined. He stressed that the remaining crude constitutes profit oil, which continues to be shared equally between Guyana and the oil companies. “That which is left, which is called the profit oil, is split evenly between Guyana and the companies. Guyana’s half is about 39.8 barrels out of every 100. The companies’ matching 39.8 barrels is split three ways between the co-venturers,” Dr Ali said. MAJOR OVERHAUL OF PUBLIC PROCUREMENT Turning to governance and public sector reform, President Ali announced that the administration is on course to fully modernise the national procurement system through a comprehensive e-procurement platform to be completed and integrated by the end of this year. “As we had promised in the manifesto, we will continue the modernisation of our national procurement system, and I’m pleased to tell you that the Finance Secretary is leading the effort to have, before the end

of this year, completed the e-procurement system,” he told reporters. The system will comprise a digital bidders’ register, an e-tender lifecycle module, a national e-tender portal and an e-marketplace, replacing the existing paper-based processes. “This will remove all of the need for the massive papers and move from a paper-based system to a complete e-system, an electronic system that is trackable throughout the process,” the President said. The expanded digital bidders’ register will capture key information on contractors, suppliers and consultants, including beneficial ownership, tax and social security compliance, classification by size — small, medium and large

— past performance, and records of debarments and suspensions. The e-tender portal will serve as a single window for all public procurement activities, where procurement plans, tender notices, bidding documents, clarifications, bid submissions and award notices will be published online. Meanwhile, the e-tender lifecycle module is intended to convert what is now a manual, fragmented, paper-driven process into a secure, end-to-end digital workflow. “The proposed e-tender lifecycle module will transform procurement into a secure end-to-end digital workflow, covering procurement planning, tender creation, publication, bid submission, evaluation,

contract award, contract administration, variation, payment processing, and real-time tracking,” Dr Ali explained. He added that the module would automate routine checks, flag compliance risks, support evaluation teams with structured scoring tools, detect anomalies and potential red flags, and generate dashboards for management oversight, while preserving the existing statutory approval framework. SUPPORT FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES President Ali also highlighted plans for an e-marketplace for routine, lowto medium-value goods

and standard services to be supplied by pre-qualified vendors using standard specifications and published prices. He noted that this would allow procurement agencies to purchase from pre-qualified suppliers using standard specifications, published prices, framework arrangements and electronic purchase orders, which, he said, would help small and medium-sized enterprises. He indicated that, in line with international practice, the government is examining the possibility of setting aside 25 to 30 per cent of procurement for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as part of efforts to ensure broader local participation in public contracts.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 19, 2026

One Skilled Worker at a Time

GUYANA’S hopes for economic transformation will depend not only on the resources under its soil and offshore waters, but increasingly on the skills, knowledge and competence of its people. In that regard, the lapse of the statutory term of the 9th Council for Technical Vocational Education and Training (CTVET) on 31 August 2026 is an important opportunity to review progress in improving the country’s technical and vocational education system. The 9th Council (Inaugurated in September 2024) Record shows a period of considerable consolidation and institutional development. Most importantly it shows what can be achieved when policy direction, financial investment and competent administration come together to a clear national objective. One of the most pressing issues the Council addressed was the long-standing backlog of certificates owed to graduates. More than 3,000 outstanding certificates were verified and cleared and more than 2,000 new certificates were verified and certified in six regions and 24 areas of study at Levels 1 to 3. These numbers are more than administrative achievements. For thousands of young Guyanese, a certificate is the only document that proves their training and can be the difference between getting a job, pursuing further education or entering a competitive industry. So clearing the backlog is a direct investment in people and their economic prospects. Equally important has been the Council’s effort to introduce technical training earlier in the education system. Inspection and certification of 86 secondary schools

have established the basis for Level 1 TVET training in 26 courses across the country. This is the kind of intervention Guyana needs if it is serious about changing perceptions of vocational education and preparing young people for a modern labor market. TVET should not be considered as a second choice to academic education. In a fast-changing economy, skilled technicians, electricians, welders, mechanics, construction workers, ICT specialists, hospitality professionals and other technically trained workers are critical to the national development. An additional major development has been the training and certification of 225 assessors in Competency-Based Education and Training. The alignment of national training practices with the Caribbean Vocational Qualification framework boosts the credibility of Guyanese graduates and increases the potential portability of their skills across the Caribbean. Quality assurance must remain at the heart of this expansion. The inspection and recertification of 25 post-secondary training centers and institutes across six regions, including the Guyana Technical Training College Inc. in Port Mourant, is an important step in ensuring that increased access does not come at the expense of standards. It is also notable the involvement of the Council in the World Bank assisted project for the setting up of an ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System. Guyana cannot build a world-class TVET system whilst tolerating weak administrative practices, inconsistent standards or inadequate accountability. Quality should be built in, not only in the classroom and workshop but

in all the institutions that are responsible for providing technical education. Equally encouraging is the growing partnership between the TVET sector and the private sector. Partnerships with companies and organizations such as ExxonMobil, Learn Corp Inc. and the Greater Guyana Initiative can help ensure that training is in tune with actual labour-market needs rather than operating in isolation from industry. This industry connection is all the more important at a time when Guyana’s economy is growing rapidly. The nation will require thousands of skilled workers to help ramp up construction, energy, manufacturing, agriculture, hospitality, infrastructure, technology and other sectors. Hence, government investment in TVET should be treated as an economic infrastructure in itself. The task now is to sustain that momentum. Elon Sooknanan, chairman of the 9th CTVET Council, rightly pointed out the need for stronger leadership, modern management practices and ongoing professional development within technical institutions. His call for leaders to keep up with international trends, standards and best practices needs to be taken seriously. Guyana cannot have a modern economy with old institutional practices. The TVET system should also have in place permanent monitoring and evaluation. Institutions need to know whether their programmes are producing graduates with the competencies required by employers. They must also be accountable for maintaining standards in training, assessment, health, safety and environmental management. Therefore the 10th CTVET Council will inherits an achievement and a responsibility.

It is inheriting a system with thousands of certificates that have been updated, secondary schools that are being integrated deeper into TVET delivery, assessors that are being trained, institutions that are being inspected and industry partnerships that are growing. But it also takes on the task of elevating these initiatives to the next level. The next Council should speed up the process of digital modernization, improve leadership development, institutionalize monitoring and evaluation, expand industry-driven training and ensure strict compliance with national, regional and international standards. There also needs to be a sustained effort to make TVET more attractive to young people and to show clearly that technical competence can lead not just to employment but to entrepreneurship, innovation and career progression. The Government’s large-scale investment in technical and vocational education is a welcome recognition that the greatest long-term asset of Guyana is its people. Oil revenues, infrastructure and investment may transform the physical landscape but it will require skilled Guyanese to build, operate and sustain that change. Strengthened the foundation with the help of the 9th CTVET Council. The challenge now is to ensure that the foundation is one that is enduring, a base on which to build Guyana’s ambitions for decades to come. When the country manages to make TVET accessible, respected, industry-responsive and internationally competitive, it will not only produce job-ready graduates. It will help build a generation ready to fully participate in Guyana’s economic transformation.

‘Funny how those years went by changing you, changing me’ 7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 19, 2026

THERE is nothing special about those words. They are taken from one of the hit songs, “Too Hot” from one of my favourite groups from the 1970s, “Kool and the Gang.” I recently bought six albums from the group on three CDs from Amazon for a mere $20 America.” There are more poignant sayings that express how we change as we go through life. But somehow that line from Kool and the Gang has stuck with me. Maybe it is because of memories of Kool and the Gang. The song is about fascination we cling to in early life that decreases and evaporates as we live longer. People change all the time, but what Freudian analysts and political theorists explain is why people change. If public intellectuals are going to educate the nation they write for, those changes have to be elucidated. This column was motivated by a letter I read in the Kiskadee Watch by attorney Kamal Ramkarran. Mr. Ramkarran, rightfully, and I thank him for that, chastised the bird for condemning the President of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) for intervening with the then Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton to secure confirmation for Guyana’s Chief Justice and Chancellor. Here are the words of Mr. Ramkarran: “The country is poorer for the absence of a substantive Chancellor and Chief Justice and it is something we should all lament. Indeed, it was lamented on many occasions by the newspaper which Kiskadee Watch says is its predecessor and on whose lineage it trades.”

Now read between the line for Mr. Ramkarran’s perception. Mr. Ramkarran reminds readers that the bird is trading on Stabroek News’s name, for which it is the successor of Stabroek News (SN). Where Mr. Ramkarran got it wrong is that he separates SN from the bird. But all the bird is doing is continuing the degenerative journalism that befell the SN in the last 15 years or so before it went out of existence. The leopard does not change its spots; it cannot. I could not understand the eulogies of SN by Mr. Ramkarran and his father, and dozens of other people when SN closed. For that reason, I sought to correct those misperceptions by writing a series of iconoclastic columns on the nature of SN on this page. This is where the line from Kool and the Gang comes in. I don’t doubt that Mr. Kamal Ramkarran is a fine, competent lawyer. I believe he is, but I am not sure of his potential to do class analysis of Guyana’s sociological make-up. His father, Ralph Ramkarran, should be equipped to undertake such analyses because he spent decades with the PPP, where he acquired the knowledge of Marxist perspectives. Just think of what the bird is doing, and the line of Kool and the Gang should instruct you. People and things change. SN was a project of the Mulatto/Creole class (MCC). The paper was formed to resuscitate the diminished presence of the MCC during Burnham’s dictatorship. So, it was always a paper that served class interest and not the sacred pursuits of journalism. But because of the iconic status its two

founders – David DeCaires and Miles Fitzpatrick - enjoyed in Guyana since the 1950s, SN could not have injected crude, politicized journalism under their watch. But the paper served the MCC’s interests in Guyana, and anyone competent in class analysis knew this at the time. I spent five years as a columnist with SN and I saw the world of the MCC that I never saw before and only heard my father speak of it. It would be academic vulgarity to describe the function of the paper under its two founders as unacceptable. It was not, and its journalism was plausible and acceptable. But we should never lose sight of what it always was. Because of its ontology, SN always had deep suspicion about Indian political power under the PPP. Mr. DeCaires was personal friend of David Granger. One of

the best friends of Mr. Fitzparrick was Hugh Chomondoley, the father of Cathy Hughes. Under both founders, the paper was made available to the WPA under Rupert Roopnaraine and GUARD under MCC leadership. The SN lost its way when Granger lost power in 2020. It psychologically revolted that the PPP was coming back into power. From 2020, the triumvirate at SN – Brendon DeCaires, his sister Isabelle and its editor Anand Persaud let loose the SN on the PPP and the SN behaved like a ravenous dog. All the Kiskadee Watch is doing is to continue to bark identically, the way SN did. 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.

Government to push nightclubs, bars toward noise-proofing to tackle noise nuisance

PRESIDENT Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali says entertainment businesses could soon access financing through the Guyana Development Bank (GDB) to invest in noise-proofing materials, with many communities voicing complaints about the negative impact of noise

nuisance. Responding to questions at his press conference on Tuesday at the Office of the President, the president acknowledged that noise nuisance has come up repeatedly during public consultations and is affecting citizens’ quality of life. “Noise nuisance is affect-

ing the quality of life of people. And we have to address it in a way that allows people to have a quality of life, but at the same time, does not destroy the businesses,” he said. For already-established bars and nightclubs, the president said an option under consideration is having operators

use GDB financing, once the bank is operational, to enclose their facilities with noise-proof material. For open-air venues, President Ali said the government is working with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to set up a monitoring mechanism that would alert operators and

patrons to noise levels, allowing for self-regulation before matters escalate to police involvement. “Self-regulation is important in any country. Before you go to the police and everything else, self-regulation is important,” he said. In addition, a multi-re-

gion task force has been established following the consultations to examine the issue in collaboration with the Guyana Police Force (GPF), noting that a lack of police responsiveness to noise complaints at the community level has been a recurring concern raised by residents.

LAC electricity generation rises 4.1 per cent despite hydropower decline –– renewables account for 64 per cent of regional power generation

LATIN America and the Caribbean recorded a 4.1 per cent year-on-year increase in electricity generation in May 2026, despite a significant decline in hydropower output caused by reduced water availability, according to the latest data from the Latin American and Caribbean Energy Organization (OLACDE). The region generated 176 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity during the month, representing a 7.32 per cent increase over April’s gener-

ation and a 4.1 per cent rise compared with May 2025. Hydropower remained the region’s largest source of electricity, accounting for 43.4 per cent of total generation, followed by natural gas at 24.4 per cent and wind power at 11.6 per cent. However, hydropower generation fell by 10 TWh compared with May 2025 as lower water availability affected output. The decline was largely offset by increased generation from other sources,

with natural gas-fired generation rising by 6 TWh and wind power increasing by 4.4 TWh. Generation from coal, oil and petroleum products also recorded increases during the period. Despite the reduction in hydropower, renewable energy sources collectively accounted for 64 per cent of all electricity generated across the region in May. OLACDE’s data show that renewables have continued to dominate the regional electricity mix, with their

share ranging between 63 per cent and 72 per cent of total generation between May 2025 and May 2026. Nine of the organisation’s 27 member countries recorded renewable electricity shares above the regional average in May. Paraguay led the region with renewable sources accounting for 100 per cent of its electricity generation, followed by Costa Rica at 96 per cent and Uruguay at 94 per cent. Brazil recorded 89 per cent, while Colombia and Venezuela each recorded 82

per cent. Belize accounted for 75 per cent, followed by Ecuador at 72 per cent and Peru at 66 per cent. The figures highlight the continued importance of renewable energy in the region’s electricity systems, while also demonstrating the vulnerability of hydropower-dependent generation to changing hydrological conditions. The shift in the generation mix during May suggests that natural gas and other energy sources continue to play an important role in maintaining electricity supply

when renewable generation, particularly hydropower, is affected by changes in water availability. OLACDE said the results underscore the importance of maintaining complementary energy sources capable of responding to fluctuations in hydrological conditions and electricity demand. T h e o r g a n i s a t i o n ’s Monthly Electricity Generation Report provides an overview of electricity generation trends across its member countries and tracks changes in the regional energy mix.

‘Reshape models to remain relevant’ 8

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 19, 2026

— President Ali urges Caribbean broadcasters

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has urged Caribbean broadcasters to rethink their business and editorial models to safeguard regional identity and remain competitive in a rapidly changing media landscape. Speaking at the 57th Annual General Assembly of the Caribbean Broadcasting Union (CBU), held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Tuesday evening, Dr Ali highlighted how traditional radio and television once knitted the Caribbean together by reflecting local culture, music and shared experiences. He warned that technological shifts, from streaming services to social media and artificial intelligence, now present both opportunities and challenges. “The broadcasting land-

scape is being rebuilt around digital infrastructure, so we need investment, investment in broadband, investment in studios, investment in digital production, investment in cybersecurity, investment in training, but most of all, investment in people, because technology without skilled people is simply expensive equipment, and this brings me back to where we began,” he said. He urged broadcasters to be “culturally confident”, using global services to distribute indigenous content rather than allowing foreign narratives to dominate local audiences. Dr Ali outlined four key challenges: economic sustainability as advertising revenue shifts to global technology firms; audience fragmentation as viewers

migrate to streaming and mobile platforms; the growing threat of misinformation and AI-generated deepfakes; and the need for investment in digital infrastructure and skills. While endorsing AI for tasks such as transcription, translation and data analysis, he stressed that machines cannot replace the human judgement, empathy and context that define good journalism. He called for regional fact-checking capacity and clear standards for the disclosure of AI-generated material. He urged the CBU and its members to master new technologies, innovate revenue models and invest in people so that future generations will continue to see Caribbean life and voices reflected in the media that tells their

President Dr Irfaan Ali story. “Our task, therefore, is not simply to preserve broadcasting; it’s to preserve the purpose of broadcasting: the purpose is

to inform, to educate, to entertain, to hold power accountable, to preserve memory, to connect our member states, and ultimately to allow Caribbean

people to see themselves reflected in the story of their own region. Seventy years from now, I wonder what historians will say about us,” he said.

Caribbean media leaders explore stronger regional co-operation at CBU assembly GUYANA is hosting regional media, government and business leaders for the Caribbean Broadcasting Union’s (CBU) 57th Annual General Assembly, with discussions focusing on greater cooperation as the region’s media and communications sectors undergo rapid technological change. Among the bilateral engagements held on the sidelines of the assembly was a meeting between Turks and Caicos Islands Minister of Innovation, Technology and Energy Erwin Jay Saunders and Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister Kwame McCoy. The discussions centred on areas of mutual interest in the media and communications sectors and highlighted the importance of strengthening collaboration among Caribbean countries as broadcasters

and media organisations adapt to a changing industry. The engagement comes against the backdrop of a media landscape increasingly influenced by digital transformation, emerging technologies, changing audience behaviour and new approaches to content creation and distribution. T h e C B U ’s a n n u a l gathering provides a platform for broadcasters and other industry stakeholders from across the Caribbean to exchange experiences, examine emerging challenges and explore opportunities for collaboration. The bilateral discussions also underscored the value of regional knowledge-sharing as Caribbean countries seek to build media and communications sectors capable of responding to technological and audience-driven changes. Sharing expertise, experiences and innovative

ideas, participants noted, can help strengthen the resilience of regional media institutions while supporting the development of new approaches to content production and distribution. The assembly is therefore serving not only as a forum for formal discussions but also as an opportunity for regional leaders to establish and deepen relationships that could support future co-operation across the media and communications landscape. With digital technology continuing to reshape how Caribbean audiences access and consume information, greater regional coordination is expected to remain important in ensuring that the region’s media sector remains innovative, resilient and responsive to the needs of Caribbean people.

Turks and Caicos Islands Minister of Innovation, Technology and Energy Erwin Jay Saunders and Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister Kwame McCoy

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Guyana records rise in CSEC candidates, top Grade One performers

GUYANA has recorded an increase in the number of students sitting the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations, with preliminary results also showing a rise in the number of candidates securing multiple Grade Ones. Minister of Education, Sonia Parag, said the developments reflect continued investment in the education sector and initiatives to support teachers and students. She made the remark at the preliminary results ceremony for the 2026 CSEC, Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) and Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) examinations on Tuesday at the Marriott Hotel. This saw 13,052 students write CSEC this year compared with 12,685 in 2025, representing an increase of 3 per cent. The ministry requested from CXC a list of candidates who secured Grade Ones in eight or more subjects. A total of 264 candidates met that

threshold in the preliminary results. Of those, 78 secured 12 or more Grade Ones, a notable increase from the 59 candidates who achieved the same feat in 2025. “It is another indication of the strong performance we are seeing this year,” she said. Among the highest-performing candidates was Nitya Narine of Tagore High School in Berbice, who secured 26 Grade Ones and one Grade Two. “Now, this is something the country has not seen. In all of the years of our results, I believe this is a wonderful first,” she emphasised, coming from Berbice. The other leading candidates included Anushka Singh of Queen’s College, with 25 Grade Ones and one Grade Two. Shreya Ramnarine of Anna Regina Secondary secured 22 Grade Ones and six Grade Twos, and Joseph Daniel of the Bishops’ High School achieved 21 Grade Ones.

Minister of Education, Sonia Parag congratulating students J’kell Whyte of Queen’s College and Feiaz Dhanny of Saraswati Vidya Niketan each secured 20 Grade Ones. Abhigyan Chatterdeo and Ethan Thakurdin, both of Queen’s College, earned 19

Grade Ones each. Michael Somwar of Tagore High School and Zhijie Yang of Saraswati Vidya Niketan each secured 18 Grade Ones. Meanwhile, Sanjana Mohan, Anna Singh and David

Thorne of Queen’s College, along with Serena Gangoo of Abram Zuil Secondary, each earned 17 Grade Ones. Minister Parag expressed congratulations to the students who excelled, as the govern-

ment reaffirmed its continued investment in the education sector. “We [government] will continue to strengthen our schools, support our teachers, expand opportunities, and make the investments necessary to ensure that every child, wherever they live in Guyana, can receive a quality education and fulfil their potential. To the class of 2026, I wish you every success in the next chapter of your lives, and I look forward with great confidence to all that you will achieve and contribute to the future of our country. Congratulations once again,” she emphasised. She stressed that the students should not yet be formally designated as the country’s top performers because the results remain preliminary. Candidates now have an opportunity to request reviews of their examination results before the final results are confirmed. (DPI)

‘Embrace’ online therapy platform to expand mental health support nationwide

THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security is expanding access to mental health and counselling services through the launch of its free online therapy platform, “Embrace”, which is expected to provide confidential professional support to people across Guyana. The platform link will be made available through the Ministry’s Facebook page and website on Friday, August 21, 2026. Embrace is intended to support persons dealing with a range of mental health and social challenges, including anxiety, depression, domestic and family violence, and abuse. Officials have stressed, however, that the online service is designed to complement rather than replace face-to-face counselling and other forms of in-person care already available through the Government. The distinction is particularly important for families affected by the MV Barima tragedy, for whom comprehensive on-the-ground counselling and psychosocial support have continued since the incident. The Ministry said counsellors, social workers and psychologists remain deployed through the HEART Initiative’s regional units, with each affected family assigned dedicated social workers and mental health professionals to maintain regular contact.

maintaining existing systems of community-based and face-to-face support. The Ministry said the ex-

Support includes home visits, targeted regional counselling hubs and telephone outreach, allowing professionals to maintain ongoing engagement with affected families. The in-person response brings together specialists from the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, the Ministry of Health, the University of Guyana and the Guyana Association of Professional Social Workers, with continued support from the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO). The Government’s broader approach is intended to ensure that while digital services increase access to professional mental health support, face-

to-face counselling remains an important and accessible form of care, particularly for communities and individuals requiring sustained intervention. Through Embrace, the Ministry is also drawing on the expertise of local independent providers and volunteers from the Guyanese diaspora. These professionals are expected to contribute specialised expertise in areas including grief counselling, trauma therapy and psychological support, expanding the range of services available through the online platform. The initiative therefore provides an additional avenue for people who may face barriers to accessing traditional counselling services, while

pansion of services reflects the Government’s continued efforts to strengthen mental health support and ensure

that professional counselling is available to people across Guyana through multiple channels.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

2,813 students set to gain Caribbean Vocational Qualifications in 2026

A TOTAL of 2,813 Guyanese students are expected to gain Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (CVQs) in 2026, strengthening the pool of young people entering the workforce with practical, industry-relevant skills. The figure was highlighted by Chief Education Officer, Saddam Hussain, during the release of the 2026

Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC), Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) and Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence (CCSLC) results on Tuesday. Unlike traditional academic examinations, the CVQ programme focuses on

demonstrating practical competence, allowing students to graduate from secondary school with skills that can be applied directly in the workplace or used as a foundation for further technical training. Hussain described the qualification as an important pathway for students seeking to transition from secondary education into both employment and

Chief Education Officer, Saddam Hussain, delivering his remarks at the ceremony

further education. “These students have matriculated from secondary school and can now access tertiary institutions. It also means that they can work because they have the necessary skills,” he said. The 2,813 students are being trained across a wide range of disciplines reflecting both traditional industries and emerging areas of economic activity. These include agrofood processing, aquaculture, crop production, electrical installation, general construc-

tion, welding, motor vehicle repairs, metalwork engineering, garment making, data operations, business and administration, commercial food preparation and housekeeping. The programme also includes specialised areas such as cricket pitch management, allowing students to develop skills tailored to specific sectors and services. The diversity of the qualifications reflects a growing emphasis on ensuring that secondary education provides multiple pathways be-

yond the traditional academic route. The development also comes as the ministry reports increased participation in technical and vocational education at the CSEC level, as the number of students writing at least one TVET subject increased by 8.9 per cent, bringing participation to close to half of students sitting CSEC. At CAPE level, almost 50 per cent of entries were in either TVET or science-based subjects, signalling a growing emphasis on technical skills alongside traditional academic disciplines. The CVQ pathway is therefore becoming an increasingly important component of Guyana’s education system as the country seeks to prepare young people for a rapidly expanding economy and a labour market requiring a broader range of technical competencies. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

President Ali signals comprehensive review of public transportation system

THE government is moving to conduct a comprehensive review of Guyana’s public transportation system to address rising transportation costs, service gaps, and the country’s fare structure. President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali said transportation has emerged as a recurring concern during the government’s ongoing public consultations, particularly among residents travelling to and from communities and housing schemes. He said the concerns raised during the consultations require policymakers to examine the

transportation system as a whole and develop measures that could address the challenges comprehensively. “These things, having the consultations and having them raised at the consultation, require policymakers to look at the entire ecosystem, and to see how we can come up with a formula that would address this issue holistically,” the president said. President Ali also pointed to concerns about varying transportation fares at different times of the day, noting that residents in areas such as Diamond and other large housing schemes

Speedboats docked at the Parika Stelling, Region Three

can sometimes face higher fares despite there being no corresponding increase in operators’ costs. He said the government has already implemented several measures to reduce transportation-related expenses for citizens.

Over 97 per cent retention recorded in the education system GUYANA has recorded a 97.96 per cent secondary school retention rate among a cohort of students whose education was significantly disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Chief Education Officer Saddam Hussain made this comment during the release of the 2026 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC), Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) and Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence (CCSLC) results on Tuesday. The cohort entered secondary education during one of the most challenging periods, with students writing the National Grade Six Assessment in 2021 and subsequently experiencing disruptions to the normal transition into secondary school. The cohort’s physical return to school only occurred on April 25, 2022, meaning many of the students who sat CSEC this year had not experienced a conventional Form One year. Students of the Three Miles Secondary School in Bartica writing an examination in 2020 According to the retention report, 13,821 students wrote the 2021 examination used for secondary-school placement. Five years later, 13,052 students went on to write CSEC in 2026.

That represents a difference of 769 students. However, the ministry said the figure should not be interpreted simply as students being lost from the education system. Of those 769 students, 488 opted to pursue technical education at the end of Grade 10 or Grade 11 instead of sitting CSEC, choosing a vocational path-

to go back to school during COVID, this is the result of it that we can see today,” he noted. For students who may not pursue CSEC, technical and vocational education provides an opportunity to acquire practical skills that can lead directly into employment or further training. This is reflected in the

way through Guyana’s technical institutes. This means that a significant portion of students who did not proceed to CSEC remained within the wider education and skills-development system. The chief education officer said the figures demonstrate the importance of maintaining multiple pathways for students as they progress through secondary education. “I want to commend the government…for this, for their foresight. When everybody said we were crazy

wider 2026 results, with an 8.9 per cent increase in the number of students writing at least one TVET subject at CSEC level, bringing participation close to half of the student population sitting the examinations. The government remains committed to providing skills to stay within the education system through technical and vocational pathways that equip them with recognised qualifications, practical skills and meaningful opportunities. (DPI)

These include the removal of excise tax on gasoline and diesel in 2022, maintaining stable fuel prices, and removing tolls on the Demerara Harbour Bridge, the Berbice River Bridge, and Wismar Bridge. The president noted that the removal of bridge

tolls provides direct relief to more than 50,000 commuters daily while investments in hinterland and community roads have also helped to improve access and reduce transportation challenges. The government has also maintained the removal of VAT on Hinterland travel to the airport and introduced an annual $20,000 transportation allowance for pensioners. It also gave a $20,000 transportation grant for students. However, President Ali acknowledged calls for a more structured transportation system, including proposals for a public-private model or a dedicat-

ed public transportation service to better cater to vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly and children. He said transportation providers will be engaged during the review, with the government seeking to develop a multi-stakeholder approach that takes into consideration the interests of commuters, operators, and other stakeholders. The president said the objective is to develop a more holistic intervention that would improve the public transportation system while ensuring that citizens have access to affordable, reliable transportation. (DPI)

Six regional hospitals delivering major gains in healthcare access

MORE than 145,000 outpatient visits and 18,500 inpatient admissions have been recorded since the commissioning of six regional hospitals across Guyana. This is according to President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who on Tuesday told a press conference that the facilities located at Lima Sands (Region Two), De Kinderen (Region Three), Diamond and Enmore (Region Four),

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

The health facilities located at Lima Sands (Region Two), De Kinderen (Region Three), Diamond and Enmore (Region Four), Number 75 (Region Six), and Bath (Region Five) have recorded significant service volumes

Number 75 (Region Six), and Bath (Region Five) have recorded significant service volumes. “Those are just some of the numbers to demonstrate to you how important these investments were, and the level of care and service that these investments are delivering to the people of Guyana; to the people of these regions, and these investments have revolutionised healthcare in our country,” the President said. Notably, more than one million laboratory tests were completed, while approximately 82,200 X-rays were conducted. Some 37,700 ultrasounds were performed, along with 13,600 CT scans. The hospitals provided more than 101,000 specialist clinic attendances, and facilitated approximately 2,400 baby deliveries. Meanwhile, average waiting times were reported at approximately 10 minutes for emergency care, and 30 minutes for outpatient services. “If you speak to people who utilise these services predominantly, overwhelmingly, they will tell you all of the positive stories,” he said, adding: “There are challenges, but these challenges are not at a scale that some would want to reflect it as. Overwhelmingly, the performance of these hospitals, the medical teams, the lab teams, the nurses has been exceptional, and I want to commend the entire team who are working around the

clock to deliver better healthcare.” Diamond Regional Hospital recorded the highest inpatient workload, with 4,705 admissions, and the highest surgical workload, with 967 surgeries. Meanwhile, Enmore Regional Hospital recorded the highest outpatient activity, with 36,670 visits, and the highest X-ray workload, with 21,131 X-rays. According to statistics provided by the Head of State, testing volumes included more than 351,000 laboratory tests at Number 75 Regional Hospital, and more than 289,000 at Lima Regional Hospital. De Kinderen Regional Hospital completed 8,760 ultrasounds and 61,700 laboratory tests. Bath Regional Hospital recorded 25,601 outpatient consultations, along with more than 58,755 laboratory tests and 11,024 X-rays. Construction of several new facilities is also ongoing. The Moruca Hospital in Region One is 46.5 per cent complete, while the Kato Hospital in Region Eight is 51.9 per cent complete, and the Lethem Hospital is 49.8 per cent complete. Construction of the West Demerara Hospital is currently 21 per cent complete. He noted that the Bartica Regional Hospital has a contract value of $254 million. While formal construction has not yet started, the preliminary design is 95 per cent complete.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Mathematics pass rate edges up to 34.5 per cent as hinterland schools make major gains — Education Ministry points to targeted interventions

GUYANA’S mathematics performance at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations has recorded a modest improvement, with the national pass rate moving from 32 per cent in 2025 to 34.5 per cent this year. This was according to Chief Education Officer Saddam Hussain, who, while presenting the 2026 CXC results, described the improvement as significant, particularly given the disruption experienced by the cohort during the COVID-19 pandemic. The students who wrote this year’s examinations missed most of Form One, having experienced periods of online learning and a delayed return to face-to-face classes. Hussain said the Ministry of Education had implemented several interventions aimed at improving mathematics outcomes, including additional instructional support, virtual teaching and the provision of learning resources. Among the more notable initiatives was the ‘Maths Tents’ programme, through which experienced teachers in Georgetown provided virtual instruction to students in hinterland communities. According to the CEO, some 17 classes across the country benefitted from the initiative, with teachers in Georgetown delivering lessons virtually to students in other regions using internet connectivity and smartboards. He noted that the initiative was supported by the provision of textbooks, geometry sets, calculators and other resources, allowing stu-

Hussain said the results warranted attention as Guyana continues to grapple with historically low mathematics performance. He also pointed to the role of the Government’s broader education in-

Chief Education Officer Saddam Hussain (Sachin Persaud)

dents to participate without having to provide the necessary materials themselves. Hussain also highlighted significant improvements in mathematics performance at several schools across the country. Rosignol Secondary recorded a 35 per cent increase in its mathematics performance, while Bartica recorded a 57 per cent improvement. Belladrum Secondary moved from a zero per cent pass rate to 81.49 per cent, while Fort Wellington Secondary increased from five per cent to 82.15 per cent. Other notable improvements were recorded at Leguan Secondary, which increased by 28 per cent; Black Bush Secondary, up 24 per cent; and South Ruimveldt Secondary, which moved from eight per cent to 60 per cent. Hussain said the Ministry will now also examine the impact of student attendance at ‘Maths Tents’ on examination performance to determine the programme’s effectiveness.

“We are now correlating attendance at the ‘Maths Tents’ to the results to see how far it has gone,” he said, while describing the initiative as a “phenomenal success” based on the Ministry’s observations. Another development highlighted by the Chief Education Officer was CXC’s modularisation of mathematics, which was piloted at four schools this year. Under that approach, he noted that the mathematics syllabus was divided into three parts, allowing students to complete the subject in modules rather than sitting the entire examination at once. The results from the pilot schools were significantly higher than the national mathematics pass rate of 34.5 per cent. The four schools recorded an overall pass rate of about 90 per cent under the modular approach. Those schools were Aurora Secondary, with 88 per cent passes; Bygeval, with 100 per cent; Richard Ishmael, with 87 per cent; and St Ignatius, with 71 per cent.

vestments, including the Guyana Digital School, in supporting students and teachers. While the 34.5 per cent national pass rate remains low, the Education Ministry is expected to continue assessing

the interventions and examining whether approaches such as modularisation and targeted virtual instruction can help produce sustained improvements in mathematics performance.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Education Minister says improved CXC results will be followed by long-term reforms — Parag moves to strengthen secondary education with new task force

MINISTER of Education, Sonia Parag, has noted that Guyana has recorded improvements in various areas, as evidenced by this year’s preliminary Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) results, with several Government interventions beginning to bear fruit. The Minister made this known while delivering the feature address at the results ceremony, held at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, where she announced plans to convene a task force to examine longterm measures to further strengthen secondary education. Parag noted that while the improved performances at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) levels were cause for celebration, the Government’s ambition extends beyond short-term improvements. “I am particularly pleased with the improvements we have seen this year in both mathematics and additional mathematics because they tell us that the interventions we have been making are

beginning to bear fruit,” the Minister said. She pointed to several initiatives implemented to address mathematics performance, including the establishment of mathematics tents, strengthened teacher training, online reinforcement classes and other targeted support. Parag also highlighted a more recent intervention through which education officers were deployed to schools to work directly with teachers and students, particularly in mathematics. She said the officers spent periods working with schools to help improve performance, while thanking those who participated in the initiative. The Minister said the improvements in mathematics were particularly significant given that the subject was also a major area of discussion at last week’s 52nd meeting of the Council for Human and Social Development in Education, hosted in Guyana. According to Parag, education ministers and officials from across the Caribbean recognised that mathematics remains a regional challenge,

requiring changes in teaching approaches, stronger support and continuous professional development for teachers, as well as greater use of diverse methods to help students understand mathematical concepts. Further to this, the Minister indicated that digital and artificial intelligence-supported tools could also be responsibly incorporated into learning, but noted that students must understand the reasoning and process behind an answer rather than simply arrive at the correct response. Meanwhile, she highlighted Guyana’s performance in the Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence (CCSLC), particularly at St George’s School of the Sciences, which recorded a 99.1 per cent mastery rate in its first year of participation in Guyana’s public school system. She said the CCSLC was introduced to strengthen the critical period between the National Grade Six Assessment and CSEC by ensuring that students continue developing and mastering competencies as they progress through secondary school.

Additionally, the Minister used the occasion to challenge the perception that academic excellence is concentrated within a small group of traditionally high-performing schools. She pointed to the achievements of public schools across the country, including schools in hinterland, rural and other regions, which recorded 100 per cent passes in individual CSEC subjects. Among those highlighted were schools recording 100 per cent passes in Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry, American History, Electronic Document Preparation and Management, English A, English B, and Human and Social Biology. Parag further recognised schools that recorded overall CSEC pass rates above 80 per cent, highlighting the performances of Queen’s College, with 97.1 per cent; Bishops’ High School, with 96.1 per cent; and President’s College, with 93.9 per cent. She noted that these performances represented the strongest results recorded by the respective schools since the pandemic year of 2020. President’s College, she

Minister of Education, Sonia Parag (Elton John photo) said, improved significantly from an 87.7 per cent pass rate in 2025 to almost 94 per cent this year, while St Stanislaus College recorded 94.2 per cent, its strongest performance since 2022. St Rose’s High School also recorded its strongest performance since 2023. She further highlighted Leguan Secondary, which achieved an 89.9 per cent overall pass rate, describing it as the school’s strongest performance in recent history. She gave particular recognition to Belladrum Secondary School, which recorded a 93.4 per cent overall pass rate after generally remaining within the 40–50 per cent range over the past six years. The school also recorded 100 per cent passes in several subjects. “Excellence is happening across schools in Guyana,” Parag affirmed. She went on to note that the results demonstrate that outstanding performance is not determined by a school’s name or location. As such, she urged parents to reconsider negative perceptions of schools, particularly during the next secondary school placement period, and warned against diminishing schools, teachers or students in the pursuit of what parents consider the “best” school. Against this backdrop, Parag announced the planned task force, saying the education system cannot be built around shortterm interventions alone. “I believe strongly that we cannot build an education system around shortterm interventions alone,” she said. “They have their place, and they are sometimes necessary. But the changes we make must be strong

enough to endure beyond one cohort of students.” She said the task force will examine the long-term measures needed to further strengthen secondary education. “Our ambition cannot simply be to say that the results have improved. They have, and we are grateful. They have, and we are pleased about that. Our ambition must be to take the performance to the standard we know our students are capable of achieving,” Parag said. She also pointed to the Guyana Digital School, which from August 31 will provide curriculum-aligned content for students from Grades One through 11, including secondary-level material aligned with CXC syllabuses. Parag said the platform will provide another layer of support for students, allowing them to reinforce classroom learning, access lessons outside school hours, and assist students in remote areas or families unable to afford private lessons. Further to this, she linked the results to the Government’s wider push for technical and vocational education and training, noting the practical products being developed by students and the involvement of secondary school students in catering for Caribbean education ministers during last week’s regional meeting. She said these initiatives are intended to equip young people with the competence, confidence and practical skills required to participate in Guyana’s rapidly changing economy. Meanwhile, Parag urged students to remain committed to learning regardless of their results, reminding those who were disappointed that an examination result should not define their potential.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Attorney General warns unlawful protests can lead to arrest, charges

- says constitutional right to protest does not extend to disrupting meetings or infringing on the rights of others ATTORNEY GENERAL and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC, has warned that people who go beyond peaceful protest and engage in unlawful assembly, disorderly behaviour or riotous conduct can be arrested and charged. Nandlall made the statement during his weekly programme, Issues in the News, while discussing the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and demonstration and the limits placed on that right by law. He said the Constitution of Guyana guarantees citizens the freedom to assemble, associate and demonstrate peacefully, but stressed that those rights cannot be exercised in a manner that interferes with the rights of others. “You have a right to protest and to do so peacefully, but in the exercise of your right to protest, you can't interfere with the other people's right to assemble, to attend the meetings,” Nandlall said. He was addressing recent tensions surrounding political meetings, including an August 4 government outreach in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), led by Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, where opposition supporters staged a protest over several issues, including the MV Barima tragedy. The opposition-led demonstration outside Watooka House breached security barriers and disrupted a Government outreach event. Among other demands, protesters called for the removal of Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill and Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar over the MV Barima tragedy and the election of a Chairman and Vice Chairman for Region 10. Nandlall said that Opposition Leader and United States-sanctioned, criminally indicted businessman Azruddin Mohamed, along with members of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), broke through a barrier while attempting to prevent or disrupt the meeting. He argued that the people

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC inside the meeting had the same constitutional right to assemble as those outside who were protesting. “These rights have to coexist,” he said. “I must be allowed to go to my meeting while you must be allowed to protest.” According to Nandlall, however, a protester cannot lawfully use the demonstration to prevent another person from attending a meeting or disrupt the proceedings. He said the Constitution itself recognises that legislation may be enacted to protect the rights and freedoms of other people. Nandlall pointed specifically to laws dealing with unlawful assembly, disorderly behaviour and public riotous conduct, stating these provisions are intended to prevent individuals from using their own freedoms to infringe on the rights of others. “There is a law that says that you can't have unlawful assembly. You can't be protesting violently,” he said. The Attorney General said conduct such as breaking down barriers or engaging in threatening behaviour could not be regarded as peaceful protest. He noted, “The Constitution talks about peaceful protest. Peaceful protest cannot be wanting to beat another Member of Parliament and calling him ‘p*$#y’ and ‘house slave.’ That is not

peaceful protesting.” Nandlall said persons who engage in unlawful or disorderly conduct can face legal consequences, including arrest and criminal charges. The Attorney General said the Criminal Law (Offences) Act provides for offences including disorderly behaviour, public riotous conduct and unlawful assembly, which can result in criminal charges when individuals interfere with public meetings or infringe on others’ right to associate. He maintained that the existence of these offences does not undermine the constitutional right to protest, but instead provides a legal framework for ensuring that competing rights are protected. The Attorney General also criticised political leaders whom he accused of encouraging supporters to engage in confrontational behaviour while avoiding direct consequences themselves. “They mislead people,” Nandlall said. “You hardly ever see the politicians getting arrested. They go behind the barrier but they put the ordinary people in front.” Nandlall contrasted this with protests he said were conducted by the People's Progressive Party (PPP) while it was in Opposition between 2015 and 2020. He said he, President Dr Irfaan Ali, Vice President

Jagdeo and other PPP leaders participated in protests during that period, but emphasised those demonstrations were conducted with police permission and without incidents of serious misconduct. “For five years we protested and we never had, first of all, we had permission to hold the march or the protest,” he said. He said protesters at the time also wore armbands identifying their demonstrations as peaceful protests. Nandlall subsequently cited a Court of Appeal decision in Frank Hope v New Guyana Company Limited, in which Justice R.H. Luckhoo addressed the consequences of unrestricted freedom. Quoting from the judgement, Nandlall said: “Freedom uncontrolled will sooner or later result in anarchy or

totalitarianism leading to its overthrow.” He used the passage to argue that constitutional freedoms must be exercised responsibly and within the boundaries established by law. Nandlall said, “I put this out there so that leaders will exercise due restraint and will act responsibly when they are shepherding their flocks.” He accused some opposition leaders of displaying increasingly disorderly behaviour and said political leaders have a particular responsibility to ensure that their supporters understand the limits of lawful protest. The Attorney General maintained that the issue was not whether citizens should be allowed to demonstrate, but whether they could use demonstrations to prevent

others from exercising their own constitutional rights. “When we exercise our rights to protest, we must understand that other people have rights too,” he said. Nandlall also warned that freedom of expression has legal limits, particularly where statements damage another person's reputation. “Not because you have a right to express yourself means that you will do so and tarnish the reputation of others,” he said. “That is not freedom of speech. That is defamation.” His comments come on the heels of a series of protest actions over the MV Barima tragedy, with demonstrators demanding accountability and justice following the July 18 sinking of the vessel.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Fake housing agents target unsuspecting citizens - public warned against fake WhatsApp, CH&PA MMG payment requests THE Ministry of Housing and Water’s Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) is once again urging citizens to be extremely vigilant against scammers who are fraudulently posing as represen-

tatives of the agency to solicit money. The government body has seen an increase in reports of illegal transactions being attempted via unofficial channels. “The public is reminded that the CH&-

PA does not conduct business relating to the sale or allocation of properties, lands, house lots, or homes via WhatsApp messaging,” the Ministry stated in a public notice. Authorities are strongly advising citi-

zens not to send money or personal information to anyone claiming to facilitate housing transactions through WhatsApp. Specific operational details were highlighted to help citizens spot fraudulent activity. For example, any mobile money payments (like MMG) accepted by the CH&PA are strictly for applications that have been submitted through the Single Window Application Portal. Most importantly, the official CH&PA MMG account is registered solely as a merchant account in the name of the Central Housing and Planning Authority. It is not registered to any private citizen or staff member.

The CH&PA confirmed that it "does not request payments to personal MMG accounts or other personal payment methods." The public is further warned that the telephone number 6829803 is not in any way associated with the agency. Officials emphasized that all information, payment requests, and transactions should be verified directly through the Ministry of Housing–CH&PA’s official physical offices and verified communication channels before making any payment or sharing sensitive personal details.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

‘Concrete Man’ pleads guilty to murdering teacher at Linden wedding reception

TWENTY-TWO-YEAROLD labourer, Shaka Phillips, known as “Concrete Man,” on Monday, pleaded guilty to the murder of teacher Jenel Pollydore, who was shot dead during a wedding reception at a hotel in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) last year. Phillips from Amelia's Ward, Linden, entered the guilty plea before Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif at the High Court in Demerara and is scheduled to return on September 30 for sentencing. Ahead of the sentencing hearing, the judge ordered that psychiatric, prison conduct and probation reports, along with reports addressing the aggravating and mitigating factors, be prepared and submitted to the court. In the meantime, Phillips is currently on remand. Pollydore, a 26-year-old mother of three from Lower Kara Kara, Linden, was fa-

Shaka Phillips tally shot on July 19, 2025, while attending a wedding reception at the R&R Hotel in Central Amelia’s Ward, Linden. The court heard that Phillips, who is the father of Pollydore’s youngest child, confronted her at the reception after allegedly questioning her about not answering his telephone calls. An argument reported-

ly followed, during which Phillips allegedly produced a handgun and shot Pollydore. Police said Pollydore attempted to escape by running towards the hotel’s pool area, but Phillips pursued her and allegedly fired two additional shots before fleeing the scene. Responding police officers found Pollydore mo-

Jenel Pollydore tionless near the pool with gunshot wounds to the right side of her face and the back of her head. Two spent 9mm shells were recovered at the scene. Pollydore was taken to the Linden Hospital Complex, where she was pronounced dead on arrival. Phillips was arrested the following day and was subsequently charged with

Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif murder. He had initially appeared virtually before Magistrate Rondel Weever at the Linden Magistrate’s Court, where the indictable charge was read to him. He was not required to enter a plea and was remanded to prison. Police later disclosed that Pollydore had ended her relationship with Phil-

lips and had previously obtained a restraining order against him following alleged incidents of domestic abuse. The guilty plea brings the case before the High Court for the determination of Phillips’ sentence. Phillips is expected to return before Justice Haniff next month for the sentencing hearing.

The initiative was discussed on Tuesday during an engagement convened by Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, with representatives of the hospitality sector, private sector and agricultural agencies

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Agriculture Ministry moves to link farmers directly with hospitality sector

THE Ministry of Agriculture is moving to establish stronger market linkages between local farmers and Guyana’s growing hospitality industry, in a move aimed at creating more reliable outlets for locally produced fruits and vegetables. The initiative was discussed on Tuesday during an engagement convened by Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, with representatives of the hospitality sector, private sector and agricultural agencies. The proposed approach seeks to better connect the demand from hotels, restaurants and other hospitality establishments with domestic agricultural production, potentially creating more predictable markets for farmers while increasing the availability of locally grown produce to the sector. Mustapha said the hospitality industry represents a growing market for local agricultural producers, but stressed the need for stronger coordination to ensure that farmers can consistently meet the quality, quantity and supply requirements of businesses. He noted that farmers need reliable and sustainable markets for their produce, while hotels and restaurants require dependable supplies that meet established standards. The engagement therefore focused on addressing the gap between agricultural production and the purchasing needs of the hospital-

ity industry, with greater coordination expected to benefit both producers and businesses. For farmers, stronger direct market access could reduce uncertainty surrounding the sale of produce and provide opportunities to expand production based on more predictable demand. For hospitality establishments, increased access to locally produced food could help strengthen domestic supply chains while reducing reliance on external sources for certain fresh produce. The initiative forms part of the Agriculture Ministry’s wider efforts to expand market opportunities for farmers and strengthen Guyana’s food supply chains. It also comes as the country’s hospitality sector continues to develop, creating additional demand for fresh, locally produced food and presenting opportunities for closer collaboration between agriculture and tourism-related businesses. The ministry’s engagement with industry stakeholders is expected to support the development of practical mechanisms through which local farmers can supply hotels, restaurants and other hospitality establishments more consistently. Greater integration between the two sectors could also contribute to increased domestic food production, improved income opportunities for farmers and greater circulation of agricultural value within the local economy.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Guyana explores maritime expansion, flag State recognition in talks with ABS and Hanwha Shipping

GUYANA is looking to strengthen its position in the regional maritime industry as the country seeks to build local capacity and enhance its international recognition as a flag State. The issue was among matters discussed on Tuesday when Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar, received a courtesy visit from senior representatives of the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and Hanwha Shipping, a global maritime transportation and logistics company. The discussions focused on areas of mutual interest and opportunities to advance Guyana’s maritime sector, with particular attention to strengthening local capacity and improving the country’s standing as a flag State. Indar highlighted the rapid expansion of Guyana’s maritime and offshore sectors, noting the country’s geographic location and ongoing economic development as key advantages in positioning it as a regional maritime hub. He also reaffirmed Guyana’s potential to become a regional maritime powerhouse as activity in the offshore and related sectors continues to expand. Strengthening Guyana’s capacity to regulate, manage and support maritime activities could have implications for employment, technical training, shipping services and the broader development of the country’s blue economy. The ABS delegation com-

prised Chairman and Chief Executive, John McDonald; CEO of ABS Group of Companies Inc., Dave Wechsler, and Offshore Account Manager, Gabrielle Caldas. Hanwha Shipping was represented by Chief Executive Officer, James Sagar and Chief Commercial Officer, Mark Stewart. Also participating in the discussions were Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation Director General, Alfonso De Armas; Parliamentary Secretary, Thandi McAllister, who also serves as Guyana’s representative to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and Legal Director of the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD); and MARAD Director General, Captain Stephen Thomas. The engagement comes as Guyana’s offshore economy continues to generate increased maritime activity and demand for shipping, logistics, regulatory and technical services. Greater international recognition of Guyana as a flag State, coupled with investment in local maritime expertise, could further position the country to capture a larger share of the economic opportunities associated with the sector. The discussions with ABS and Hanwha Shipping therefore form part of broader efforts to strengthen Guyana’s maritime capabilities while supporting the country’s emergence as an increasingly important player in the regional maritime industry.

Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar, in the meeting with senior representatives of the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and Hanwha Shipping, a global maritime transportation and logistics company

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

New cohort of soldiers completes basic military training at Tacama

The GDF has strengthened its ranks with the graduation of a new group of soldiers

THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has strengthened its ranks with the graduation of a new group of soldiers who successfully completed the Basic Recruit Course (BRC) 202601 at the Colonel John Clarke Military School (CJCMS), Tacama. The graduation parade was held on August 13, marking the formal completion of the recruits’ initial military training and their transition to the next phase of service within the GDF. BRC 2026-01 began on April 27 and was designed to equip the recruits with the foundational knowledge, discipline and competencies required for military service. Training included drill, military knowledge, marksmanship and physical fitness. Delivering the feature address, Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, stressed the need for soldiers to be prepared to operate in an increasingly complex and evolving defence environment. Khan highlighted the concepts of Sound, Image and Movement (SIM) and Awareness, Adaptability and Agility (AAA) as important considerations for personnel operating in the modern military environment. He also underscored the importance of discipline, professional conduct and continuous learning, not-

ing that the demands of contemporary military service require personnel who are capable of adapting to changing circumstances. The Chief of Defence Staff described military training as an important investment in the future capability of the GDF, as Guyana’s defence and security requirements continue to evolve. Outstanding performances during the course were recognised with a number of awards. Private Jamin Williams was named Best Graduating Student and also received the award for Best Military Knowledge. Private Carson Goodchild was adjudged Runner-up Graduating Student, while Private Jeremiah Paul secured awards for Best Drill and Best Shot. Private Royston Layne was recognised as the Best Fitness performer. Following the completion of the course, the new soldiers will be assigned to units across the Force, where they will continue their professional development and apply the skills acquired during their initial training. The GDF said the induction of the new recruits further enhances its capacity to maintain a capable and adaptable force prepared to support national defence and respond to Guyana’s evolving security needs.

Two miners charged with robbery under arms, remanded

Rondel Richardson

TWO miners were, on Monday, charged with robbery under arms and remanded to prison after appearing at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court. Rondel Richardson, 29, of Craig Village, East Bank Demerara, and Ronald Barker, 49, of South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, were jointly charged under Section 222(c) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01. The men were arrested

Ronald Barker

on Thursday, August 13, and were subsequently charged on Monday, August 17. They appeared before Magistrate Caressa Henry at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court, where the charge was read to them. Both men pleaded not guilty. Bail was refused and the two were remanded to prison. The matter was adjourned to September 23, when it is expected to continue.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

BIT urges 288 graduates to turn skills into community and national development

THE Board of Industrial Training (BIT) has challenged 288 newly trained Guyanese to use their technical skills not only to improve their own livelihoods, but also to strengthen their families, communities and the wider national economy. The call came from BIT’s Chief Executive Officer, Richard Maughn, during Tuesday’s graduation ceremony for beneficiaries of the National Training Project for Youth Empowerment at the BIT Skills Development and Certification Centre at Unity, East Coast Demerara. Maughn told the graduates that their training represented both an opportunity and a responsibility, particularly as Guyana continues to require a skilled workforce capable of supporting economic growth across multiple sectors. He framed his charge around five principles, gratitude, resilience, excellence, contribution and national development, urging the graduates to make full use of the investment made in their development. “The greatest expression of gratitude is not merely to say, ‘thank you,’ but to make the opportunity count,” Maughn said, noting that the Government of Guyana invested more than $21.5 million in the training represented by the graduating class. The 288 graduates comprise 164 males and 124 females, who completed 14 projects across eight occupational areas. Training was provided in AC and refrigeration servicing and repairs, commercial food preparation, electrical installation, furniture making, heavy-duty equipment operation, information technology, agro-processing technologies and plumbing. Maughn cautioned the graduates that receiving a certificate would not eliminate the challenges associated with entering the workforce or establishing themselves professionally. He encouraged them to remain resilient in the face of setbacks, learn from challenges and continue devel-

The 288 graduates comprise 164 males and 124 females, who completed 14 projects across eight occupational areas

enth-day Adventist organisation, Beterverwagting Practical Instruction Centre, Buxton Practical Instruction Centre, BIT Unity Training Centre and Guyana Industrial

BIT’s Chief Executive Officer, Richard Maughn

oping their skills rather than allowing disappointments to determine their future. “Do not allow one setback to determine your future,” he told the graduates. He also stressed that technical competence must be accompanied by professionalism and integrity. Whether working in electrical installation, plumbing, information technology, agro-processing, heavy-duty equipment operation or another trade, Maughn urged the graduates to distinguish themselves through the quality of their work. He encouraged them to be punctual, dependable, safety-conscious and honest, while continuing to upgrade their knowledge and skills. The CEO further challenged the graduates to look beyond personal advancement and consider how their newly acquired skills could benefit others. He said their skills could be used to strengthen their families, serve their communities, support employers, establish businesses, create employment or mentor other aspiring workers. “Do not use your skills only to improve your own circumstances,” Maughn said. $21.5M INVESTMENT IN 288 TRAINEES The graduating cohort brought together trainees from five training agencies operating in Region Four, including the Guyana Sev-

Training Centre. Beterverwagting accounted for the largest number of graduates, with 121 beneficiaries, followed by Guyana Industrial Training Centre

with 52, Buxton Practical Instruction Centre with 66, BIT Unity Training Centre with 33, and Guyana Seventh-day Adventist with 16. The training programme

was designed to provide participants with practical skills that can improve their prospects for employment, entrepreneurship and economic TURN TO PAGE 22

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Police step up engagement at Kumaka Waterfront

POLICE in Region One are stepping up their engagement with residents, vendors and shoppers at the Kumaka Waterfront, Mabaruma, as part of efforts to strengthen community relations and enhance security in the area. Commander of Regional Police Division One, Senior Superintendent Krishna Ramana, accompanied by ranks from the Mabaruma Police Station, conducted a community outreach at the waterfront on Monday. During the engagement, Ramana and the police ranks interacted

with vendors, shoppers and other members of the public, discussing security concerns, crime prevention and the importance of maintaining a visible police presence. Members of the waterfront community reportedly raised no major security concerns and expressed satisfaction with the proactive approach being taken by the police and the increased visibility of ranks at the Kumaka Waterfront and surrounding areas. Ramana assured residents and businesspersons that police patrols and community

engagements would continue regularly to help identify and address emerging security concerns. The outreach forms part of the Regional Police Division’s broader efforts to strengthen police-community relations and build public confidence through sustained engagement and partnership. The Division said it remains committed to working closely with communities across Region One to promote safer neighbourhoods and maintain a responsive and visible police presence.

Commander of Regional Police Division One, Senior Superintendent Krishna Ramana, accompanied by ranks from the Mabaruma Police Station, conducted a community outreach at the waterfront on Monday

BIT urges 288 graduates to turn skills into...

participation. Heavy-duty equipment operation accounted for the largest occupational group, with 85 beneficiaries, while commercial food preparation had 56 graduates. Electrical installation accounted for 40 graduates, information tech-

nology 31, furniture making 26, plumbing 18, AC and refrigeration servicing and repairs 16, and introduction to agro-processing technologies another 16. The figures also highlight participation by women in several traditionally

male-dominated areas, including information technology, electrical installation and heavy-duty equipment operation. 1,243 TRAINED ALONG EAST COAST CORRIDOR

The graduation also formed part of a wider BIT investment in skills development along the East Coast of Demerara. According to information presented at the ceremony, the Government, through the Ministry of Labour and

Manpower Planning and BIT, has trained 1,243 persons along the East Coast corridor between 2020 and 2026. The group comprises 450 males and 793 females, with training delivered across 13 occupational areas. Approximately $119.4 million has been spent on developmental training during the period, with the programmes aimed at helping residents acquire skills aligned with labour-market needs. The training has included areas such as commercial food preparation, cosmetology, cake decoration, electrical installation, heavy-duty equipment operation, information technology, garment construction, plumbing, furniture making, agro-processing and welding and fabrication. At present, a further 93 persons are undergoing training at the Unity Training Centre in heavy-duty equipment operation, welding and fabrication, and electrical installation.

HEAVY EQUIPMENT TRAINING EXPANDS Heavy-duty equipment operation has emerged as a significant component of the Region Four skills-development programme. From 2020 to date, BIT has engaged 689 beneficiaries in heavy-duty equipment operation training, including 588 males and 101 females, at a reported government investment of approximately $39.2 million. The programme has expanded through training delivered by the Guyana Industrial Training Centre and the BIT Unity Training Centre, including several batches in 2025 and 2026. The latest figures reflect the growing emphasis on practical and technical competencies as Guyana’s economy continues to generate

FROM PAGE 21

demand for workers capable of operating, maintaining and supporting equipment and infrastructure. SKILLS AS PART OF NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT Maughn told the graduates that national development should not be measured solely by major infrastructural projects, investment or economic activity, but also by the people who possess the skills to build, operate, maintain, produce and provide services. “Development depends on people with the skills and character to build, operate, maintain, produce and serve,” he said. He urged the graduates to recognise that they were now part of Guyana’s national workforce and had a role to play in the country’s continued development. The graduation was attended by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall; Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith; Regional Executive Officer for Region Four, Juan Edghill Jr.; BIT officials, instructors, training partners, parents and other supporters. As the graduates move into employment, entrepreneurship or further training, the programme is expected to provide them with a foundation for greater economic independence while helping to expand the pool of skilled workers available to communities and employers. Maughn’s final message was direct: the graduates should be grateful for the opportunity, resilient when challenges arise, committed to excellence, willing to contribute and conscious of their responsibility to national development. “Your country has invested in you. Now go forward and make that investment count,” he said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Region Three’s Asaph Ahmad graduates as Cuba’s best medical student

A REGION THREE resident has emerged as the best graduating student in the Class of 2026 at the University of Medical Sciences of Havana, Cuba, and is preparing to return home within weeks to serve Guyanese. Dr Asaph Ahmad, who spent approximately seven years in Cuba pursuing medical studies, received the Ambassador’s Award for Best

strong leadership, organisational ability and a sustained commitment to the welfare of Guyanese students. Majeed said Ahmad regularly worked with fellow students and the Guyana Embassy to coordinate cultural and other activities, contributing to the well-being of Guyanese students while also promoting Guyana’s interests in Cuba. “The work of Mr. Ahmad

Doctor Asaph Ahmad receives his certificate from Guyana’s Ambassador to the Republic of Cuba, Halim Majeed. He was also awarded the Ambassador’s award for being the best graduating student

Graduating Student at the university, an achievement that has placed him among the country’s outstanding young medical graduates. Ahmad’s accomplishment was also recognised in the context of the university’s international student body, with Guyanese officials highlighting him as the country’s best graduating student among students from 67 countries. He began his medical education at the Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM), where he quickly became involved in representing Guyanese students. From 2020 to 2022, he served as President of the Guyanese Student Group before transferring to the University of Medical Sciences of Havana. He continued his leadership role after the transfer, representing the Guyanese student body from 2022 to the present. In a testimonial, Guyana’s Ambassador to Cuba, Halim Majeed, described Ahmad as a student who demonstrated

has contributed, in no small way, to strengthening the friendly relations between Guyana and Cuba – and to promote a positive image of Guyana in Cuba,” the ambassador said. He described Ahmad as one of Guyana’s outstanding students in Cuba and expressed confidence that the young doctor’s humility, honesty, professionalism and work ethic would serve him well as he begins his career. Ahmad’s achievement also comes against the backdrop of the longstanding medical and educational co-operation between Guyana and Cuba. President of the Guyana-Cuba Solidarity Movement (GCSM), Halim Khan, said Ahmad’s journey reflects the long-term impact of Cuba’s policy of providing medical education opportunities to students from developing countries. Khan, speaking in connection with the August 13 observance marking what he

described as the 100th birthday of Cuban revolutionary leader Fidel Castro, noted that Cuba made healthcare a central component of its post1959 development model and expanded its role in training medical professionals from developing countries. He pointed to the longstanding relationship between Guyana and Cuba, noting that in 1972 Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Jamaica established a framework for academic and technical co-operation, including in public health. Khan further recalled that, by the early 2000s, Guyana was experiencing a short-

age of medical personnel. In 2002, then-President Bharrat Jagdeo and Castro signed a bilateral agreement under which Cuba provided hundreds of full scholarships for Guyanese students to pursue six- to seven-year medical programmes. That arrangement opened a pathway for generations of Guyanese students to receive medical training in Cuba, including Ahmad. According to Khan, while Cuba has faced severe economic challenges associated with the blockade, it has nevertheless continued to share its medical expertise, personnel and training capac-

ity with countries across the developing world. “Cuba has been facing the blockade for decades, yet it has continued to develop and assist other countries through medical partnerships, training and the deployment of healthcare professionals,” Khan argued. He said this record should be considered when the international community gathers for the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, calling on countries to support efforts for an end to the US blockade against Cuba. Khan maintained that the international community should recognise the

contribution Cuba has made to healthcare in developing countries and support calls for the lifting of measures that, in his view, have constrained Cuba’s economic development. The Guyana-Cuba relationship has deep roots, with co-operation extending across education, healthcare, culture and other areas. Meanwhile, for the Region Three graduate, the completion of his studies now marks the beginning of another chapter, with his return to Guyana expected in the coming weeks to begin serving in the country’s healthcare system.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

145 students graduate from GPF Zara Computer Centre in New Amsterdam A TOTAL of 145 young people have completed computer training at the Guyana Police Force’s Zara Computer Centre, New Amsterdam Campus, as the programme continues to equip children and teenagers with essential skills for an increasingly digital world. The students were recognised on Monday at the Berbice High School Auditorium during the Centre’s Summer Classes Graduation Ceremony, which celebrated the completion of training for participants between the ages of six and 16. The programme was divided into three age groups, with each receiving training tailored to their level of development.

Thirty-seven students between six and nine years old were introduced to basic computer skills, keyboard operations, Microsoft Paint and Paint 3D. The 64 students in the 10-to-12 age group received instruction in Microsoft Word and Publisher, while 44 students between 13 and 16 were trained in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Publisher. New Amsterdam Centre Administrator, Lance Corporal Eastman, said the programme was designed to provide accessible, quality computer education to members of the community. He noted that behind each of the 145 graduates was a child who had learned something new, overcome challenges and gained greater

The students were recognised on Monday at the Berbice High School Auditorium during the Centre’s Summer Classes Graduation Ceremony, which celebrated the completion of training for participants between the ages of six and 16. The programme was divided into three age groups, with each receiving training tailored to their level of development

confidence in using technology. Assistant Superintendent K. Gravesande, Officer in Charge of the Number One Sub-Division, congratulated the graduates during his welcome remarks and stressed the importance of acquiring technological skills from an early age. He said such knowledge would benefit the students throughout their academic pursuits and future professional careers. Coordinator of Zara, Assistant Superintendent E. Hinds, described the graduation as a celebration of learning and personal growth. He encouraged the students to remain committed to learning, noting that technology would continue to play an increasingly important role in their lives. Hinds also thanked parents for supporting their children’s participation in the programme. Founder of Zara Com-

puter Centres and the Jay & Sylvia Sobhraj Foundation, Dr Jay Sobhraj, urged the graduates to make full use of the opportunities provided through the programme while continuing to expand their knowledge. Sobhraj, who acknowledged that he did not grow up with computers, said the rapid advancement of technology underscored the importance of preparing young people for the modern world. He also cautioned the students to use their technological skills responsibly and avoid becoming involved in cybercrime or using technology to harm others. Sobhraj highlighted the introduction of PC repair classes as another opportunity for students to acquire practical technical skills and develop a broader understanding of computers. He commended the Guyana Police Force for its continued partnership in maintaining Zara Computer Centres across the country and expanding access to technology education. “When you stop learning, you stop growing,” Sobhraj reminded the graduates. Head of the Education Department, Mr Jacobs, delivered the feature address and highlighted the expansion of Zara from a single centre to 20 locations across Guyana. He pointed to major tech-

nological developments, including the invention of the computer, the growth of the internet and the emergence of artificial intelligence, while urging the young graduates to use technology responsibly. Jacobs also cautioned them about their use of social media and the need to make responsible choices in an increasingly connected environment. Academic achievement was also recognised, with top-performing students receiving trophies in their respective age groups. Among the six-to-nineyear-olds, Priyanka Klass placed first, followed by Rocky Hutson. In the 10-to12 category, Fazan Affonso topped the group, followed by Parveena Toolsi and Delicia Beaton. Shania Sancho led the 13-to-16 age group, with Willana Grosvenor placing second. The ceremony also featured a poem by graduate Priyanka Klass and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by graduate Joshua Deeges. The graduation represents another step in the Guyana Police Force’s efforts, through the Zara Computer Centre initiative, to expose young people to information technology and provide them with practical skills that can support their education and future careers.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Preliminary CXC, CAPE results highlight strong student performances

Nitya Narine of Tagore Memorial Secondary School is among the most outstanding performers in this year’s preliminary CXC results (Sachin Persaud Photos) HUNDREDS of students across Guyana on Tuesday celebrated strong preliminary performances in the Caribbean examinations, with several emerging among the country’s leading performers in the CSEC and CAPE examinations. The preliminary results for the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC), Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence (CCSLC) and Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) were released as students, parents and schools began assessing their performances. Education Minister Sonia Parag recognised several of the

outstanding students during the announcement, while stressing that the preliminary results remain subject to review and could change before the official results are finalised. Among the standout performers is Nitya Narine of Tagore Memorial Secondary School, who, according to the preliminary results, secured 26 Grade Ones and one Grade Two. Former Education Minister Priya Manickchand congratulated Narine in a Facebook post and described the performance as a record for Guyana. She also highlighted Narine’s unusual academic journey, noting that she did not spend a day in Grade Six and, while in Grade Five during the COVID-19

David Sugrim of Queen’s College records 11 Grade Ones and seven Grade Twos in his preliminary CAPE results lockdown, was granted permission to sit the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA). Narine subsequently earned a place at The Bishops’ High School but chose to remain in Berbice. Reflecting on her performance, Narine attributed her results to consistent preparation over several years rather than last-minute studying. “My preparation was progressive study, I did not wait until grade 11 to begin studying. It was from since I began high school,” she said. She said she made a habit of paying attention in class, reviewing lessons at home and seeking assistance whenever she encountered difficulties. She also credited her parents,

teachers and lesson teachers, as well as educational videos and past papers, for helping her prepare. Narine plans to attend the University of Guyana to pursue law, with the goal of helping others and fighting for justice. At the CAPE level, Queen’s College student David Sugrim secured 11 Grade Ones and seven Grade Twos and is preparing to pursue medicine. Sugrim, who has previously featured among the school’s top performers at both CSEC and CAPE Year I, said he hopes to become a neurosurgeon. His interests, however, extend beyond medicine to areas including law, technology and tourism. “I have always had an interest in medicine, but I have always cross-streamed and taken an interest in every other subject area as well,” he said. Sugrim encouraged students preparing for CAPE to begin their preparations early, given the volume of work associated with multiple units and internal assessments. “My advice is to start really early, it is not a full year to exams, so it is intensive from the start, especially with so many units,” he said. He also urged students to remain focused on their ambitions and not allow negative opinions from others to undermine their goals. Another Queen’s College student, Fatima Grant, entered 20 subjects and recorded 14 Grade Ones, five Grade Twos and one Grade Three. Grant said procrastination was among the biggest challenges she faced during her preparation, at times making her question whether she wanted to continue. “My biggest challenge was procrastination, sometimes you think, I do not want to do this anymore, I am fed up with exams,” she said. She credited her peers, teachers and parents with helping her overcome those moments and remain focused. Grant intends to reapply to Queen’s College for CAPE and advised other students to

Students with their teachers and supporters following the announcement of this year’s preliminary CXC results measure themselves against their own goals rather than the expectations of others. “It does not matter how late you start, or what other people's expectations are for you, all that matters is what you expect for yourself, what you think you deserve, and how you plan on getting there,” she said. Meanwhile, Queen’s College student Maleia Baharally recorded 17 subjects at CSEC and said the results reflected the benefits of maintaining a strong academic foundation throughout secondary school. “I am very proud of myself. I am quite surprised, but with the constant work I was putting in, this was definitely going to be the outcome,” she said. Baharally credited her parents for investing in extra lessons and supporting her academic development from her first year of secondary school. She said, however, that maintaining a healthy balance between academic demands and life outside school was one of her biggest challenges. Her advice to other students was to focus on the quality of their preparation rather than simply the number of hours spent studying. “Quality is much better than quantity, the quality of work you put in will be much more beneficial than the number of hours you study. And do not compare yourself to others,” she said. Samira Khan was another strong CSEC performer, earning 13 Grade Ones and one Grade Two from 14 subjects. Khan described the examination period as strenuous but said she was pleased that her efforts placed her among the country’s leading performers. Her preparation included maintaining a regular sleep schedule, eating on time, using school textbooks, watching educational videos on YouTube and following Caribbean educators. Khan said one of her biggest challenges was developing confidence in her own ability. “My biggest challenge was having the confidence to believe in myself,” she said.

She said she eventually developed greater confidence and discipline and is now looking towards the University of Guyana, where she hopes to pursue petroleum engineering. Khan said she sees the field as increasingly important to Guyana’s economy and wants to contribute her skills and knowledge to its continued development. “I would like to pursue petroleum engineering. It is a growing field in Guyana's economy, and it's very significant, I'd like to invest my time, my skills, and my knowledge into that field,” she said. She encouraged other students to practise consistently, make use of available educational resources and avoid burnout. The performances have provided an early indication of the academic achievements being recorded by Guyanese students across several examination streams, while also highlighting the different approaches students have used to overcome academic and personal challenges. For parents, educators and policymakers, the preliminary results offer more than a measure of individual achievement. They also provide an opportunity to examine the support systems, teaching strategies and learning habits contributing to student performance across the country. As the authorities continue the process of reviewing and finalising the results, the achievements of the students already identified among the top performers are being celebrated as examples of the potential of Guyanese youth. Their experiences point to a common thread: sustained preparation, discipline, support from families and teachers, and the determination to remain focused despite challenges can make a significant difference in examination outcomes. The final national results are expected to provide a fuller picture of Guyana’s performance once the review process is completed.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, August 19, 2026

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Old Fort, Southside Sports Management, GHB partnering to promote 5’s format THE Guyana Hockey Board, in an effort to keep Guyana ahead of the curve, has partnered with Southside Sports Management and Old Fort to popularize the hockey’s 5’s format locally. The shortened format of the sport is geared to be more fast-paced and involves continuous play which is more attractive to spectators and players. Samuel Roberts, who started his hockey journey with the Old Fort Hockey Club before spending some time in the USA, is driving the initiative locally. Old Fort and Southside Sports Management is partnering with the Guyana Hockey Board to host a 5’s

tournament dubbed Friday Nights 5’s at the newly developed Skip Roberts Youth Development Complex on Orealla Avenue, South Ruimveldt Garden. Roberts, whose father Cecil ‘Skip’ Roberts was a national player and President of the Guyana Hockey Board as well as a founding member of Old Fort Hockey club is seeking to help the country prepare for the format. “FIH is changing hockey; they are changing the format and trying to drive 5’s because people say hockey is boring, so by going with the 5’s, the ball does not always go out, and the action is nonstop, so FIH, the international body, is trying to push the 5’s agenda, so we are trying to

make sure we are ready and can compete.” Roberts says that this is the second competition for the year where they are trying to help bridge the understanding gap to the new format. He says they believe by preparing the next generation now, it can secure the game’s future in Guyana. “We are trying to get the juniors accustomed to it because it’s like pools; getting to understand it is like playing pools, hitting the sideboard and backboard, and bouncing back, so we figured for the longevity of Guyana hockey we got to push this version of the game; this is the hockey of tomorrow.” He says the shorter version of the sport is steadily

Old Fort Hockey Club and Southside Sports Management, Samuel Roberts

growing, and it could revolutionize the game in Guyana. “This is taking off because of the fact that it is exciting and people coming to watch the game, they are seeing a different version of hockey and they are enjoy-

ing it because everybody is in the game, its nonstop, we see great potential from an international level and we are focus on the local Guyana level and we like what we are seeing especially with the u21, u17, getting engage

and being more creative than some of the seniors because we are accustomed to laying a different style of hockey.” The shortened version of the game features Five athletes per team on the pitch at one time playing two halves of 10 minutes each in a 40x24 meter space surrounded by perimeter boards to keep the ball in continuous play with players able to score from anywhere in the attacking half. The next FIH Hockey5s World Cup will be held in 2028, the inaugural edition was held in Muscat, Oman, in January 2024, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) operates the flagship five-a-side tournament on a quadrennial cycle.

Weigh-in set for Thursday as Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors Boxing Championships ready for opening bell THE final preparations for the 2026 Winfield Braithwaite Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors Boxing Championships will intensify on Thursday morning when boxers from across the region assemble at the Tower Hotel for the official weigh-in ahead of the three-day tournament. The weigh-in is scheduled for 7:00 am on Thursday, August 20, at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, where the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) will host the championships from August 20–22. Guyana will welcome young boxers from St. Maarten, Trinidad and Tobago, St. Lucia and The Bahamas with the regional contingents expected to

battle for honours across the various schoolboys and junior weight divisions. The championship, which has become one of the Caribbean’s leading developmental boxing competitions, was conceptualised and first hosted in Guyana in 2016. It is named in honour of Winfield Braithwaite, Guyana’s 1978 Commonwealth Games gold medallist. GBA President Steve Ninvalle has welcomed the strong regional response to this year’s championships, describing the competition as an important component of the continued development of amateur boxing in the Caribbean. He added that the tour-

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Wednesday August 19, 2026) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (a) GAW defeated JAK by 6 wickets (b) Mohammad Nabi (GAW) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who are the 2024 CPL champions? (2) Who were the losing finalist in the 2024 CPL? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

nament has provided young fighters with an important platform to gain international experience while testing themselves against opponents from across the region. “Over the years, it has provided our young boxers with invaluable international exposure and has become one of the region’s premier developmental competitions,” Ninvalle said. The official weigh-in will be particularly important as fighters must satisfy the requirements of their respective weight divisions before the competition gets

underway. It will also provide coaches and team officials with the opportunity to complete the final administrative preparations ahead of the opening bouts. The GBA has been working to ensure that all organisational arrangements are in place for the championships, with Ninvalle expressing confidence that Guyana will once again deliver a successful staging of the regional tournament. The competition’s significance extends beyond the medals and regional bragging rights. Since its inception, the Caribbean

Schoolboys and Juniors Boxing Championships has developed a reputation as an important stepping stone for young fighters aspiring to compete at the highest levels of amateur boxing. A number of boxers

who have used the tournament as an early international platform have subsequently progressed to represent their countries at major events, including the Olympic Games and World Championships. 15:30 hrs Cavolo Nero 16:00 hrs Viviana

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 19, 2026

CAREBACO Jr. Badminton Championship in GFF Youth Ensemble U-13 Jamaica Godette delivers U-13 singles gold National Championship playoffs continue with tight contests COMPETITION in the GFF Youth Ensemble U13 National Championship Playoffs continued with a series of closely contested matches on August 17, as some of Guyana’s leading youth teams battled for national honours. At the National Training Centre (NTC), Gladiators FC and Cougars FC played to a 0-0 draw, with neither side able to find a breakthrough despite a competitive encounter. Gladiators FC were also held to another 0-0 draw by Kuru Kururu FC. Kuru

Kururu’s Emmanuel Reid received a yellow card in the 36th minute as both teams remained disciplined defensively and shared the points. In another fixture, Buxton Stars FC and Timehri United FC also finished 0-0, completing a day characterised by strong defensive performances across the championship. The National Championship brings together leading youth clubs emerging from competitions across the GFF’s Regional Associations, providing young players with the opportunity to

test themselves against their peers from across Guyana. The Youth Ensemble Programme forms part of the GFF’s wider commitment to strengthening the national player-development pathway by providing structured, competitive football and increased playing opportunities for young footballers across the country. Competition in the U13 National Championship Playoffs continues as teams pursue the opportunity to be crowned national champions.

Chinese Association backs Archery Guyana ahead... (From page 35) to compete on home soil against regional competitors while giving the country the opportunity to demonstrate its capacity to host international sporting events to a high standard. Mrs. Persaud-McKinnon stressed that every contribution towards the championships has a direct impact on the Federation’s ability to deliver the event professionally. Archery Guyana extended its sincere appreciation to President Stephen Su and the Chinese Association of Guyana for their confidence in the Federation and for supporting the continued development of archery in Guyana. The Federation also called on other members of the business community, civil society and the wider Guyanese community to join the growing circle of part-

ners supporting the October championships. “We are building something that belongs to Guyana,” Persaud-McKinnon said. “And we want Guyanese businesses, organisations and communities to see themselves as part of this story. When the first arrow is shot in October, it will represent not just the athletes on the shooting line, but everyone who helped us get there.” President Stephen Su said the Chinese Association of Guyana was pleased to support Archery Guyana and its efforts to host the 2026 Caribbean Development Championships and the Inaugural Caribbean championships. “The Chinese Association of Guyana is proud to support Archery Guyana as Guyana prepares to welcome athletes and sporting representatives

from across the Caribbean. International sporting events such as this are not only about competition; they are also opportunities to bring communities together, encourage our young people to participate in sport, and showcase Guyana to the region and the wider world. We believe that supporting initiatives like this is part of our responsibility as a community organisation, and we are pleased to play a small part in helping Guyana successfully host this important championship.” He added: “We wish Archery Guyana every success with the October championships and hope that this partnership will encourage more organisations and businesses to come forward and support the continued development of sport in Guyana.”

ANJANEYSA Godette on Tuesday showed her growing ability to clinch the country’s first gold medal at the ongoing CAREBACO Jr. badminton championship being played in Kingston, Jamaica. She came up against Jamaica’s Aaqilah Akuri in the U13 girls’ singles for the individual finals. Godette lost the first set 21-15 but roared back in the next set to win 21-9, forcing a deciding game, which she clinched 21-10 to capture gold 2 sets to 1. Godette comfortably beat Jamaican Brea Grant in the semis 21-8 and 21-10 to book a spot in the gold medal match. Meanwhile, on Monday, her countrymate Joel Rambiriche had to settle for bronze after losing to Barbados’s Liam Bruce in his boys’ U13 semifinals 21-3 and 21-5. The boys’ U13 singles saw Joel Rambiriche getting the better of Jamaican Kai Ye in the quarter finals, winning 21-16 and 21-17 to reach the

Guyana’s Anjaneysa Godette won gold in the singles and partnered with Joel Rambiriche to capture bronze in the mixed doubles

semi-finals Godette and Joel Rambiriche grabbed bronze medals in the doubles. Rambiriche and Go-

dette lose the U13 mixed doubles semifinal to a Barbados pair, Siraj Brathwaite and Zaria Mayers, to take home bronze.

Johnson says Amazon Warriors not taking St. Lucia Kings likely – Gurbaz arrives to bolster the batting lineup GUYANA Amazon Warrior’s Team Manager Leon Johnson believes that the side is a quality unit for the 2026 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League. The Guyanese admitted that fact during an interview with Joseph Red’s Pereira in St. Lucia ahead of the franchise’s second clash of the season against the St. Lucia Kings. Added to that, Kings have brought in a few players to reinforce the team and Johnson is not underestimating them. “The kings have been a bit inconsistent this season, but then again, in T20 cricket, you can’t take anything for granted or underestimate anyone. They got Tim Siefert coming in, who has been in very good form in the Hundred (England competition), and also Noor Ahmed. Their team will be strengthened, but it is just about us planning well and executing those plans.” Johnson, who led Guyana’s 4-day squad to multiple titles, said the warriors have

been in St. Lucia since Friday, allowing them time to settle and prepare well for the second match-up. Johnson, said they were excited to get a winning start to their 2026 campaign. The Guyana franchise won their season opener on Thursday last against the new franchise Jamaica Kingsman comfortably by 6 wickets. “We played well to restrict Jamaica to 117, a very good effort from us, and we did very well in the chase. We lost one too many wickets in that chase, but overall, it was a very good game, and it did well for our net run rate as well,” he added. He noted that Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who was prolific for the team in the ExxonMobil Global Super League, will be available for selection in the starting eleven as they look to maximize results from their away games. “Gurbaz is arriving this evening (Tuesday); he will be eligible for selection on Wednesday. It is one step at a time. Home has always been a good place for us, a fortress

for us. We have three more games on the road before we get home, and it is about taking care of business on the road. I find teams who play best or very well on the road ultimately tend to secure themselves playoff spots.” “It is always good that these young Caribbean players get the opportunity to rub shoulders with world-class players and international players and also world-class Caribbean players; they get to rub shoulders with the likes of Shai Hope, Shepherd, Hetmyer, and Khary Pierre, and these guys,” he added. The team manager says they are very confident in their goals this season given the balance of the team in terms of seam bowling, spin bowling, and batting options. ‘Once we play to potential and we execute whatever plans we come up with for different teams, we will be fine.’ The Warriors clash against the St Lucia King bowls from 19 hours this evening.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Shawn’s Mini Mart and Jaigobin Hotel back Essequibo Zone cash prizes in Lotto/Let’sBet T10 THE Essequibo leg of the Lotto/Let’sBet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast received a major financial boost as corporate partners Shawn’s Mini Mart and Jaigobin Hotel officially came on board to sponsor the bulk of the cash incentive package for the zonal leg set for August 22–23. Under the new sponsorship backing, Shawn’s Mini Mart will fund the $500,000 first-place prize for the Essequibo Zone champions. Jaigobin Hotel will sponsor the $200,000 runner-up prize, alongside $50,000 payouts for each of the two losing semi-finalists. Scoop Ride Inc. also maintains its tournament-wide commitment by rewarding $25,000 to each

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

of the four losing quarter-finalists. Highlighting the vital role of commercial partnerships in driving regional

tapeball development, One Guyana T10 representative Yusuf Ali extended sincere appreciation to the tournament’s latest backers.

“The backing from Shawn’s Mini Mart and Jaigobin Hotel underscores the strong corporate faith in grassroots cricket across

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

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

Essequibo set for explosive tapeball action Chinese Association backs Archery Guyana ahead of October championships in Lotto/Let’sBet T10 Blast WITH two zonal legs already in the books, the focus of the Lotto/Let’sBet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast moves to Essequibo this weekend, August 22 and 23. Sixteen teams loaded with talent are set to clash across four venues for a coveted spot in the national finals on October 11. The weekend action kicks off on Saturday, August 22, with opening fixtures spread across the Pomona Ground, Affiance Community Ground, Hampton Court Ground, and the Anna Regina National Stadium. Match play begins at 10:30hrs with Aurora Knight Riders facing GT Warriors at Pomona, Riverstown taking on Fibreglass Gladiators at Affiance, Shawn’s Mini Mart playing Mabaruma AllStars at Anna Regina, and Adventure Renegades going up against Northern Falcons at Hampton Court. Subsequent morning and afternoon ties will decide

the quarter-finalists, with the day concluding after the second-round clashes at 15:30hrs. All roads then lead to the Anna Regina National Stadium on Sunday, August 23, where the action shifts entirely for the marquee matches. Semi-final one bowls off at 14:30hrs, followed immediately by semi-final two at 16:30hrs. Ahead of the showpiece match, fans will enjoy an exhibition game between Trophy Stall Jaguars and Trophy Stall Eagles at 18:30hrs, setting the stage for the zonal final under lights at 20:00hrs. In addition to playing for a place in the national finals, teams will battle for substantial commercial prize packages thanks to a strong lineup of corporate backers. The Essequibo Zone champions will claim a $500,000 first-place prize funded by Shawn’s Mini Mart. Jaigobin Hotel is sponsoring the $200,000

runner-up prize, along with $50,000 payouts for each losing semi-finalist. Furthermore, Scoop Ride Inc. continues its tournament-wide support by providing $25,000 to each of the four losing quarter-finalists. Admission is free to all grounds across both days, with a fully stocked bar, giveaways, and family entertainment planned to encourage local communities to come out in full support. The Essequibo champions will earn their place alongside Berbice Zone winners Grillmaster Sip N Play All-Stars and East Bank/ West Demerara Zone champions Mahdia (Movements Family). After this weekend’s leg, the tournament will observe a scheduled hiatus for the closing stages of the Caribbean Premier League before resuming on September 26 for the Georgetown/East Coast Demerara Zone.

THE Chinese Association of Guyana has thrown its support behind Archery Guyana as the Federation intensifies preparations to host the 2026 Caribbean Development Championships in Guyana this October. The support was formally handed over at the Chinese Association of Guyana’s Brickdam office, with President of the Chinese Association of Guyana, Mr. Stephen Su, representing the Association. The gesture comes at a critical stage in preparations for what promises to be one of the most significant international archery events to be hosted in Guyana. Archery Guyana is preparing to welcome athletes, coaches, judges and officials from across the Caribbean and the wider region for the October championships. For Archery Guyana President Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon, the support represents far more than a contribution to an upcoming sporting event. “Hosting an international championship is never the work of one federation alone. It requires a country, its institutions, businesses, communities and supporters to come together

President Stephen Su of the Chinese Association of Guyana on right at the handover ceremony. President Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon of Archery Guyana on left

with a shared belief in what Guyana can achieve. We are deeply grateful to President Stephen Su and the Chinese Association of Guyana for recognising the importance of this championship and for standing with Archery Guyana at this important moment.” She added that partnerships such as this demonstrate the increasingly important role of community and private-sector support in building sustainable sport.

The Chinese Association of Guyana has a longstanding presence in Guyana and has continued to contribute to national development and community initiatives. Under the leadership of President Stephen Su, the Association has also participated in partnerships aimed at strengthening cultural, social and economic engagement in Guyana. The upcoming championships will provide Guyanese athletes with the opportunity (Turn to page 34)

Essequibo set for explosive tapeball action in Lotto/Let’sBet T10 Blast PAGE

With two zonal legs already in the books, the focus of the Lotto/Let’sBet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast moves to Essequibo this weekend, August 22 and 23

Johnson says Amazon Warriors not taking St. Lucia Kings likely

Old Fort, Southside Sports Management, GHB partnering to promote 5’s format

PAGE

– Gurbaz arrives to bolster the PAGE batting lineup

Action in the last Friday Nights 5’s Hockey Tournament Amazon Warriors team manager Leon Johnson

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026