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('news', 0, 390, 399, 'und', 0, '<p><strong>Address by Dr. Harold A. Drayton, on the occasion of the launch of his book, An Accidental Life, University of Guyana, August 24, 2017</strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>To the memory of Walter Rodney and Josh Ramsammy</strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Editor’s Note:&nbsp;Our thoughts are with the peoples of the region and her diasporas, living through the devastation wrought by Hurricane Irma, which has powerfully underlined the vulnerability of the Caribbean and low-lying mainland coastal communities. As we begin to mobilise to assist our neighbours in the affected regions and islands, it is imperative that we widen and deepen our&nbsp;conversation about climate&nbsp;change. An article in the online magazine The New Republic cited the environmental group 350.org’s declaration that “we should be naming hurricanes after Exxon and Chevron, not Harvey and Irma,” drawing attention to the need to “hold individual fossil fuel corporations accountable for causing global warming.” For a start, it points to the kinds of silences in Guyana at the moment on these questions in the broader public imagination, and urgently underscores that this is where the discussion about Exxon in our country needs to go.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In last week’s column, the reader’s attention was directed in particular, to the increasing disunity, inter-racial strife and violence between the two major ethnic groups within our Guianese polity. We pointed to the limited utility of courses such as Social Biology, in effecting stable behavioural Changes in individual members of human populations.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>What was to be done? 1963 was just to make a start with institutional development in Guyana of post-secondary/tertiary education/training. Our government could only afford to allocate to the university project from its Development Fund BWI DOLLARS 338,000, of which ONLY BWI $169.000 (US $101,400) were available for ‘drawdown’ in mid-1963. We could then barely afford to meet the expenses in offering programmes in 3 Faculties-Arts, Social Sciences and Natural Sciences.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>When we ask the same kind of question in 2017, more than 50 YEARS after our Foundation year, we find that our Government has allocated $2.9 Billion (Guyana Dollars”) to support UG operations, “and to construct a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) teaching learning complex”. Although I would argue strenuously against any attempt to divorce science/maths education from the humanities, that overall level of support for the University by the Government of a poor country like Guyana, cannot be described as “miserly”. Especially so, when UG is no longer restricted to the basic three Faculties of Arts and Sciences; it now has 5 faculties, 5 Schools and 1 Institute.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>One would also like to know the progress that has been made thus far with the “repositioning” activities to mobilize additional funds from external sources for UG. At the very core of planning for the development of institutions (including universities) in small poor countries, is always the sobering reality that the costs of any new programme may be prohibitive; and government may find it more economical to send its nationals for training in any particular specialty to a nearby country. The same kind of reasoning would apply to existing programmes. For example, if one finds that over a five year period, 80% of the graduates from a programme, emigrate, should that programme not be discontinued?&nbsp; In small poor countries, should there not be limits to growth?</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In his 1992 literary dialogue with Cardinal Newman’s 150 year classic, The Idea of the University, JAROSLAV PELIKAN jokingly remarks that</p>\r\n\r\n<p>One of the most besetting vices of the university, and yet one of its most charming characteristics, has always been its quaint tendency to look inward and ignore the context of the society within which it lives and without which it could not exist.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Newman’s educational philosophy, on the other hand, clearly states its fundamental social and political presupposition: that training of the intellect, which is best for the individual himself, best enables him to discharge his duties to society.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>But Pelikan emphasizes that Newman’s vision of the university’s duties to society was not merely individualistic. The tenor of all his lectures and discourses, was in anticipation of the intellectual and cultural development that would accrue to his native Ireland as a whole, from investment in the University&nbsp; in Dublin, Cork and Belfast. He points out too that historians of the Italian Renaissance of the 14’th and 15’th Centuries have shown that it was primarily an urban phenomenon, generated by much interaction among researchers, practitioners, and teachers of the Social Sciences, the Arts, and Human Biology.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>What can we identify as the primary feature of our Guyanese context today- not in 1953, nor even in 1955 or 1957?&nbsp; Surely it is the increasing disunity, inter-racial strife and violence between the two major ethnic groups within our Guianese polity.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In his only foray into African Politics- his seminal Politics in West Africa&nbsp; in the Whidden Lectures for 1965, Sir W. Arthur Lewis- the first Caribbean-born Nobel Laureate, makes the point that:</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Most of the new states created in the twentieth century include people who differ from each other in language or tribe or religion or race; some of these groups live side by side in a long tradition of mutual hostility……French writers use the word ‘cleavage’ to describe a situation where people are mutually antipathetic, not because they disagree on matters of principle, like liberals and socialists or because they have different interests, like capitalists and workers, but simply because they are historical enemies. Cleavage cannot be overcome merely by argument and economic concessions….because it is not based on disputes about principles or interests.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>It seems to me quite unnecessary for us to theorize as to whether Guyana is a “plural” society, like those described by Sir Arthur in many of the 20’th Century African States, when the empirical evidence over the past 60 years clearly demonstrates that our two major ethnic groups have increasingly become ‘mutually hostile’ and ‘mutually antipathetic’.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In his monograph, Sir Arthur went on to observe that the ‘democratic problem’ in such societies is “to create political institutions which give all the various groups the opportunity to participate in decision -making, since only thus can they feel that they are full members of a nation, respected by their more/ less numerous brethren.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Unfortunately, the 1963 Sandys decision to change the electoral system of BG from “first past the post”, as it had been for many decades, to a type of “proportional representation” was made so as to ensure the defeat of one political party and not to institutionalize the processes of extensive popular participation in decision-making.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In that regard, what has been Guyana’s experience since Independence in 1966?&nbsp; In the four National elections in 1968, 1973, 1980, and 1985 “Victory” went to one Party; and in the five held in 1992, 1997, 2001, 2006, and 2011 to the “other” Party.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>And in Guyana’s most recent 2015 elections, the ‘victorious Party’ won 50.3% of votes cast; the ‘losing’ Party 49.2 of votes cast: those differences translated into a one seat difference in the National&nbsp; Assembly. That was almost the mirror image of the 2011 result.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Especially with such very small differentials what can “victory” really mean??&nbsp; Sir Arthur takes the argument much further:</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In such a society a slogan that the will of the minority should prevail, would make better sense than the slogan that the will of the majority should prevail, but neither slogan is appropriate. It is necessary to get right away from the idea that somebody is to prevail upon somebody else, from politics as a zero-sum game. Words like winning and losing have to be banished from the political vocabulary of a plural society. Group hostility and political warfare are precisely what must be eradicated if the political problem is to be solved; in their place we have to create an atmosphere of mutual toleration and compromise.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In my view, we must first ask the rhetorical question: Who are ‘we’? By far the majority of us- citizens of Guyana- are the grandchildren and great grandchildren of slaves who were involuntary migrants, and of indentured immigrants who came to these shores more or less voluntarily. And for a century and more we have lived together, slaved and been exploited together. But through all those years together we have survived as a polity, though increasingly alloyed with that major political problem, identified by Sir Arthur. We might note in passing that it is not a problem that can be resolved by a Cabinet of Ministers, who share a common ideology, either to the right or left of the political spectrum</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Like Newman and Pelikan cited above, I too cherish the view of the university in its generic sense “as a ground of promise in the future”. In the specific case of our own 50 + year old University of Guyana, I make bold to suggest that in addition to research and teaching in the Arts, Sciences and professional programmes, UG.’s strategic plan over the next 5 years, should include a University-wide Programme to address the major political problem (discussed earlier), which has confronted Guyana for so many years, and which many believe to be a serious obstacle to National Development. The use of the phrase ‘University-wide’ is intended to emphasize that the resources of ALL Units, Departments and Institutes of the UG should be harnessed. The cooperation of the Government of Guyana would need to be sought, and possibly also, representation should be invited from the UWI and the CARICOM Secretariat.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The overall objective of the suggested programme would be: to design a system/s that would ensure the optimal participation of all ethnic groups identified in Guyana’s Census, at all levels of National decision-making.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hopefully, enhancement of democratic practice will be a national reward for half a century of investment in our University.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/features/in-the-diaspora/09/11/an-act-of-faith/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/features/in-the-diaspora/09/11/an-act-of-faith/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 391, 400, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana’s Vice Chancellor Renaissance held the fourth in the series of lectures on Thursday at UG’s Education Lecture Theatre, Turkeyen campus. The lecture titled the Multiversity Universities of the Caribbean was presented by Sir George Alleyne and explored the role of universities across the Caribbean in generating trust and assuaging fear that is crucial for the maintenance and prospering of regional integration.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sir Alleyne, the Director Emeritus of Pan American Health Organisation(PAHO) and former Chancellor of the University of the West Indies, pointed out that all Caribbean citizens must work to eliminate fear and build trust to facilitate regional integration.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“I say citizens because I do not believe this task should be left to our leaders alone and I do believe that your President’s affirmation is worth exploring in a university context,” Sir Alleyne said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sir Alleyne noted he was intrigued by President Granger’s comment, at the recent CARICOM heads of government meeting, that fear and lack of trust are the critical factors impeding the implementation of the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME).</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Fear is good…but fear can also be a liability as it prevents us taking steps into the unknown,” Sir Alleyne noted. Fear of loss of sovereignty and local agency may be at the root of many of the problems that beset regional integration, Sir Alleyne reasoned.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“I believe it is possible to address and diminish it through the collective thinking of informed citizens and that universities of the region can make a substantial and significant contribution,” Sir Alleyne said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sir Alleyne submitted that the concept of a ‘multiversity’ must go beyond traditional cloistered university communities to see that fear is diminished and trust established. The role of a multiversity goes beyond the role of political leaders.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“It is the universities and other parts of civil society that have that critical and fundamental role in developing and fomenting that regional identity and citizenship,” Sir Alleyne noted.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Vice Chancellor’s Renaissance lecture series is intended to enhance UG’s image. The lecture seeks to enlighten the UG community and Guyanese as a whole. The discussions have a broad focus which links Guyana to the wider world while bringing the knowledge of the wider world to Guyana through the lectures.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://gina.gov.gy/ug-hosts-fourth-vc-renaissance-lecture-sir-george-alleyne-urge-all-caribbean-citizens-to-work-facilitate-regional-integration/\">http://gina.gov.gy/ug-hosts-fourth-vc-renaissance-lecture-sir-george-alleyne-urge-all-caribbean-citizens-to-work-facilitate-regional-integration/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 392, 401, 'und', 0, '<p>The Gandhi Youth Organization ended day one of the Star Party Rental/Trophy Stall GCA first-division, two-day competition on 133 for six, still trailing the University of Guyana by 139 runs at Malteenoes Cricket Club ground, yesterday.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG had earlier won the toss and elected to bat&nbsp; allowing middle order batsman Devon George to stroke his maiden first-division century, an even 100, inclusive of six maximums and eight fours to hand UG the edge on day one.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>George featured in two significant partnerships, putting on 69 for the second wicket with Melroy Stephenson (38) and 84 for the fourth wicket with Darnell Douglas (40) to ensure UG recorded a competitive total.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Suresh Dhanai (22), Ray Newton (26) and an unbeaten 20 from Dennis Heywood ensured meaningful contribution as Trevon France grabbed 6-89 in GYO’s bowling effort.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>GYO, at the close were precariously placed on 133 for 6 with France unbeaten on 32 and Leon Griffith on 16 being the other not – out batsman. Mavildra Dindyal made&nbsp; 36 and Divesh Ramjattan a fighting 22 as off – spinner Dwayne Dodson took 2-34 while Omesh Danram has 2-20.</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 393, 402, 'und', 0, '<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>The collaboration between the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and the Centre for Communication Studies (CCS) of The University of guyana brings to you this Volume 2: No. 5 edition of <em>Renaissance</em>, a monthly newsletter. <em>Renaissance </em>is the Vice-Chancellor’s medium of sharing with you the developments and areas of interest that need to be celebrated at our University.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>This July-August edition is especially unique since it marks our one year anniversary. it is no coincidence that in July our Vice-Chancellor, too, commemorated his one year with the University, rightfully with an investiture ceremony.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Whilst the University was on break for the June-August vacation period, we were still involved in a number of noteworthy activities. The Turkeyen and Tain Talks series has consistently packed the meeting rooms with eager and concerned citizens, willing to discuss pertinent and impacting topics.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The University has much to be proud of.&nbsp;In this edition we congratulate the Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine on achieving re-accreditation. Three of Ug’s Computer Science students are mentors and members of the guyana Robotics Team. This team recently represented our country in Washington at the First global Robotics Competition, securing an amazing tenth place out of 164 participating countries.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ug’s Turkeyen and Berbice Campuses held their Orientation Ceremony and activities in the month of August. enjoy images from both of these events. As the semester progresses the <em>Renaissance </em>team wishes all our new and continuing students a hard-working and productive semester. To our administrative staff and lecturers we wish you patience and hope that your committment towards moulding the country’s future leaders, administrators and speialists in their own fields, does not waver.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>As you read, be inspired to join us as we celebrate Ug’s <em>Renaissance</em>!&nbsp;</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('document', 0, 394, 403, 'und', 0, '<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Download your university rules &amp; regulations below.</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('document', 0, 395, 404, 'und', 0, '<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Download your UGSS Election information below</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('document', 0, 396, 405, 'und', 0, '<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Download your copy of the university student guide below</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 397, 406, 'und', 0, '<p>University of Guyana defeated Guyana Defence Force by an innings and 159 runs when the Georgetown Cricket Association/GISE/Star Party Rentals/Trophy Stall first division two-day tournament continued last weekend. UG took first strike and posted 359 all out at GDF ground. Omesh Danram struck 114, while Keron Sewnarine made 51; Damion Waldron bagged seven wickets. GDF were sent packing for 81 in reply. Dennis Heywood grabbed 5-14, Danram 3-6 and Suresh Dhanai 2-17. Batting a second time GDF were bowled out for 112 with Waldron scoring 61. Dhanai and Heywood claimed three wickets each.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>At Malteenoes SC, rain stopped play between GNIC SC and Transport SC. Batting first TSC rattled up 330 all out. Charwayne McPherson slammed 81; Suresh Budhoo made 67, Refael Singh 42, Stephen Alves 37, Joel Spooner 29 and Akeem Redmon 22; Dwayne Dick and Ronale Bourne snared four wickets each. In reply, GNIC SC were 183-1 at stumps on the first day. Veeland Crandon made 63 and Marc Nicholson 93 not out. Rain prevented any play on Sunday.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Previously, Transport SC beat GDF by 173 runs. TSC took first strike and scored 217. Joel Spooner made 37 not out, Devaugh Nandan got 37, Steven Alves 27 and Rafael Singh 23. Randy Lindore picked up 3-14, Damian Waldron 3-27 and J. Chisolm 3-57. GDF were bowled out for 74 in reply. Waldron and Damien Whitney made 19 and 15 each as Spooner grabbed 5-8, Kevin Ross 2-17 and Franchot Duncan 2-28. TSC were sent packing for 90 in reply. Mark Ramsammy made 26 and Spooner 13 not out. Lindore captured 4-22, Andre Mc Farley 2-2 and D. Rajmangal 2-19. Set 234 to win, GDF were bowled out for 60 with Waldron scoring 33; Kevin Ross bagged 8-14 from 10.5 overs of which six were maidens.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2017/09/19/ug-thump-gdf-by-an-innings-and-159-runs/\">https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2017/09/19/ug-thump-gdf-by-an-innings-and-159-runs/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 398, 407, 'und', 0, '<p>THE University of Guyana (UG) has been warned to be very careful with the amount of degree programmes it offers to complement Guyana’s emerging oil- and-gas industry. This is according to Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Ivelaw Griffith, who said taking the professional recommendation into consideration, the university will be offering less degree programmes and more “short courses” in the field. In fact, he said what is actually needed at this time is more technical skills, which are being taught at the technical institutes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, Professor Griffith said what is needed for the energy sector is definitely not what has been initially touted. “It is technical skills; it is persons coming out of the technical institutes. So we have to strike a balance between investing methodically enough so that we do not overproduce,” he said. There have been much talks about Guyana’s level of preparedness as it moves to embrace the new sector, which will undoubtedly transform the country’s economy. The concerns were particularly over what role the premier tertiary institution could play in paving the way for the country in managing the oil-and-gas sector.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG Chancellor Dr. Nigel Harris had previously sounded a warning that the university had better be prepared for the sector with new and innovative programmes. But new information reaching the institution suggests that there is much more than programmes that needs to be pursued. The advice has come from several quarters, particularly from universities in oil- producing countries. Those institutions have been doubling up on their programmes over time. Griffith said an adviser from the University of the West Indies (UWI), St Augustine Campus said that institution made the very mistake with the energy degree programmes it offered, only to later find out that the absorptive market was not there.<br />\r\n<br />\r\n<strong>THIN LINE</strong><br />\r\n“We have got to walk a thin line between starting programmes, getting a good idea of what is needed here and elsewhere and in partnership with other universities, do things that are better suited,” Griffith said. In that regard, he said UG is actively pursuing partnerships with several universities, including UWI and the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), which have very robust oil-and-gas programmes.<br />\r\n“I signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of the West Indies in July. We will use that MoU as a part of ramping up the partnership with the UWI campus,” he said. He said he will soon be leading a mission to the UTT and the UWI to find out how they can partner to address Guyana’s peculiar situation.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The VC said it is quite clear that most of what the country needs for the oil-and- gas sector, cannot be answered by the university at this time. He said UG is however beginning conversations with its local partners, including the Ministry of Natural Resources. It has also taken a strategy for the short courses to the School of Entrepreneurship and Engineering.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>DEVELOPING PARTNERSHIPS</strong><br />\r\n“We recognise that some of what they need, we don’t have and we can’t pretend to have them overnight, so we are developing partnerships”, he told the Guyana Chronicle. The vice chancellor said as Guyana braces itself for the oil and gas sector, several questions must be answered, including what skills would the sector need, whether the university has the teaching resources to deliver the skills needed and the economic question — given what the needs are, whether the university would be better off doing some things in partnership with other institutions. “There is no sense pretending. We don’t have what will be needed in the next year or two, so we have to find partnerships, so yes, we have begun those conversations,” Griffith said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Chancellor Nigel Harris had last year said that U.S. oil and gas company Exxon Mobil had approached the university, and was enquiring about its current arrangement for an industry that is likely to place the country’s economy on another level. He had promised to arrange for assistance from the University of the West Indies (UWI). According to Harris, UWI has been training petroleum engineers and other persons in the industry for the past four decades. “It may be that the UG may not be able to provide all the staff they need. So, we are planning to link the University of Guyana with other international institutions. I will be pushing for links with UWI…. It does not make sense that we have the next-door neighbours and not take advantage of the programmes,” Professor Harris had promised.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/09/18/ug-must-guard-overproducing-graduates-vice-chancellor\">http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/09/18/ug-must-guard-overproducing-graduates-vice-chancellor</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 399, 408, 'und', 0, '<p>DPI, GUYANA, Wednesday, September 20, 2017</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Minister of Public Telecommunications, Catherine Hughes today donated a number of chairs to the University of Guyana and Theatre Guild. The chairs were taken from the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) which is currently being renovated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Minister Hughes said that with the ongoing rehabilitation of the ACCC, the Ministry decided to donate the chairs that would no longer be needed at the centre. “We decided that we would donate those chairs to two organisations.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Minister explained that a committee working closely with the administration of the Conference Centre, to monitor the progress of the repairs, initiated the idea of donating the chairs to the University and the Theatre Guild.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Minister Hughes further added that the work on the Conference Centre “is going very well and we are down to reopen by May of 2018”.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>275 chairs which will be used to upgrade the student’s lounge. It was explained that some will be installed in classrooms that will allow for stationary chairs and the rest will be placed in Centre for Communications Studies’.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Guyana, Professor Dr. Ivelaw &nbsp;Griffith received the chairs while Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Philanthropy, Alumni and Civic Engagement, Dr. Paloma Mohamed, thanked Minister Hughes for the donation. They both noted that the areas designated for the installation of the chairs are in need of an upgrade and that the contribution is a timely one.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Professor Griffith also thanked Director of Business, Dereck Cummings, Director of the Conference Center, Nandkumar and staff of the University.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Additionally, 100 chairs were donated to the Theatre Guild. Board Member of the Guild Malcolm De Freitas, observed that the chairs will improve their capacity to host events and give the playhouse a new ambience.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://gina.gov.gy/ug-and-theatre-guild-receive-donation-of-375-chairs/\">http://gina.gov.gy/ug-and-theatre-guild-receive-donation-of-375-chairs/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 400, 409, 'und', 0, '<p>Hector Edwards, Secretary General of the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) said last night that he expected the Guyana team to this year’s South American Youth Games in Chile to do well.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The games will run from September 27 – October 8 and the Guyana contingent is expected to leave Tuesday.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Speaking to Stabroek Sports, the former national cyclist, now University of Guyana lecturer, said that he has high hopes from the disciplines of boxing and athletics.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In addition to the above two disciplines, Guyana will also compete in badminton, basketball (3x) and table tennis.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“I think athletics and boxing might be the hallmark sports,” Edwards declared.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Boxing stands a good chance while our young athletes have been doing pretty well at the Carifta Games and World Youth Championships,” he said adding.… our table tennis players might stand a chance as well.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>This is the second time that Guyana will be represented at the South American Youth Games. They also participated at the inaugural event in Lima, Peru in 2013 where they won one gold, one silver and seven bronze medals from a 30-member delegation.</p>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>&nbsp;</div>\r\n</div>\r\n\r\n<p>Another athlete whom Edwards said he expects to do well is boxer Keevin Allicock.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile president of the Guyana Badminton Association, Gokarn Ramdhani, in an invited comment said of his two-member team….“we stand a good chance.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ramdhani was referring to the prospects of the two players in Priyanna Ramdhani and Tyrese Jeffrey.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Badminton, Ramdhani recalled, won two medals at the 2013 games with Ambika Ramraj winning a bronze medal in the mixed doubles while top player Narayan Ramdhani, who is world-ranked player, won a bronze in the individual singles.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to Ramdhani, the players to watch will be players from Peru and Brazil.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“We are hoping to medal,” he said adding that he does not know whether the draws will be done using the seeding or the world ranking system. Should the world ranking system be used, Priyanna Ramdhani stands to benefit since she is ranked 215 in the world, said the GBA president. GOA vice-president Godfrey Munroe is the Chef-de-Mission while Director of Sport, Christopher Jones, is expected to attend the games in place of GOA president K.A Juman Yassin. The other officials are Wanda Richmond, athletics, Junior Hercules, basketball, Terrence Poole – boxing and Idi Lewis – table tennis.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The team members are: Kenisha Phillips, Analisa Barclay, Deshanna Skeete and Jermaine King – athletics, Keevin Alliock and Christopher Moore- boxing, Shamar France, Akeem Crandon, Isaiah Hintzen and Nigel Bowen- basketball and&nbsp; Miguel Wong and Nicholas Romain – table tennis.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/sports/09/20/edwards-expects-south-american-youth-games-team-to-do-well/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/sports/09/20/edwards-expects-south-american-youth-games-team-to-do-well/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 401, 410, 'und', 0, '<p>Dear Editor,</p>\r\n\r\n<p>As Registrar of The University of Guyana, I wish to respond to and clarify a number of issues initially raised in a published article entitled, ‘Guyanese robbed of opportunity to study at Leeds University’ dated September 1, 2017 which was recently recirculated in various social media outlets during the period commencing September 14, 2017 and subjected to comments in letters to the editor, specifically in the Kaieteur News of September 17, 2017.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>It is indeed unfortunate that the university administration was not approached by the Guyana Times or the Kaieteur News, to clarify some of the allegations and conclusions arrived at in the article or letter prior to publication. In this regard, it behooves me to provide both context and the facts in the referenced matter. Ever since my appointment as Registrar of the University of Guyana in 2015, the Registry adopted as its mission “Transforming the Registry into a student focused and student friendly environment”. In this regard, there was the commencement of the provision of service to the general public and students between 7:00 h and 19:00 h Monday to Friday, and 8:30 h to noon on Saturdays. Additionally, applications for transcripts are duly processed, verified and dispatched within a 48-hour period in accordance with receipt of full information and prescribed payments.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>For some strange reason, after a complete year, the article has re-appeared, with some publishing opinions, not consistent with the facts and without the benefit of total information. Allow me the opportunity therefore to provide some background and factual context on this matter as follows:</p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>At 11:40 h on Monday, September 11, 2017, I received an email from former student, Renita Chanderballi, seeking, inter alia, my “urgent assistance” in transmitting a transcript that was requested less than a week ago (September 6, 2017) to be sent to Leeds University.</li>\r\n	<li>At 6:20 h on September 12, 2017, I acknowledged the email of the previous day and promised Ms Chanderballi that I will “…ascertain the facts in the matter…” and revert to her later that same day.</li>\r\n	<li>On September 12, 2017 at 17:46 h, the Assistant Registrar for Examinations dispatched an email to Ms Chanderballi advising her, inter alia, “…that the transcript was uplifted by FedEx today…” and further suggested that she should track the delivery with the tracking number which she had in her possession.</li>\r\n	<li>Ms Chanderballi immediately acknowledged receipt of the email from the Assistant Registrar for Examinations and conveyed her thanks “… for the quick response today and for preparing my transcript free of cost… and that it was much appreciated…”</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>&nbsp;</div>\r\n</div>\r\n\r\n<p>It is indeed unfortunate and perhaps injudicious that, for reasons best known to them, some media operatives came to conclusions and passed judgement, without the benefit of the facts. Indeed, it has been established that contrary to erroneous reporting as specifically reflected in a letter written by Mr Freddie Kissoon and published in the Kaieteur News on September 17, 2017; the student is currently attending Leeds University and we wish our alumna, as we wish all other alumni the best. We are happy to have been able to provide her the foundation for getting into Leeds.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this regard, it is my considered opinion that given the recent facts in this matter, there should be a full retraction and unqualified apology by all media houses that recently published unsubstantiated articles and letters on this matter in their respective newspapers without the benefit of complete information. Indeed, the university administration has not been informed by either Leeds University or Ms Chanderballi that there has been any negative impact on her scholarship.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Finally, it is my respectful view that while the public has a right to information, there must be a corresponding duty to be responsible by the provision of information that is informed by the best evidence in which there is little or no element of self-interest, lack of information and bias.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yours faithfully,</p>\r\n\r\n<p>C Nigel Gravesande</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Registrar</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The University of Guyana</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 402, 411, 'und', 0, '<p>Funded by the World Bank, the Education Ministry on Wednesday afternoon launched the Guyana Education Sector Improvement Project.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The project aims to improve teaching practices and student achievement in mathematics at the primary level in selected schools, strengthen the teaching capacity and improve the learning environment of the University of Guyana (UG) Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS).</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to Project Coordinator, Quenita Walrond-Lewis, the project which costs US$14.03M, addresses critical areas in the delivery of quality education in Guyana.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Chief Education Officer, Marcel Hutson, said the Ministry is working to produce all rounded citizens starting from an early age. He expressed that the Ministry of Education has started works in several areas, one of which consists of reviewing the education curriculum, the delivery of technical and vocational education and the intense training of teachers.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The first component of the project caters to an integrated curriculum reform to improve student achievement at nursery, primary, and lower secondary levels.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The second component deals with strengthening the teaching capacity and improving the learning environment for UG FHS to ensure that it maintains regional accreditation for programs</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The third component is project implementation support which encompasses monitoring and evaluation, procurement and financial management among others.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Education Minister, Nicolette Henry said this is one of the most comprehensive projects to be implemented in the sector. She also expressed that the initiative is in keeping with the theme for this year’s Education Month, “Promoting Wellness in Communities: through quality education”.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://newsroom.gy/2017/09/21/us14-03m-education-sector-improvement-project-launched/\">https://newsroom.gy/2017/09/21/us14-03m-education-sector-improvement-project-launched/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 403, 412, 'und', 0, '<p>THE Ministry of Education will be moving to review a 20-year-old school curriculum, in an effort to re-energise the education sector here. Particular focus will be placed on English and Mathematics, subject areas the education system has been struggling with over time. Special focus will also be placed on the inclusion of the use of technology to aid teaching and learning, Minister of Education, Nicolette Henry has said. The Minister was speaking on Wednesday to educators, students and other stakeholders during the launch of the Guyana Education Sector Improvement Project (GESIP) at the National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD).</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to the Minister, it has already been acknowledged that the education system has to be fortified to serve all of Guyana’s students. It is for this reason, she explained, that the government has re-engineered a system that will produce a new framework, which will give every child the chance to be educated to their full potential. “We have work to do, by closing the disparities in education among schools and regions, raising grades in English and Mathematics in particular across the education spectrum, especially in the hinterland areas, and making sure that every child has access to equal education,” Minister Henry said. She added that the project is a team effort, in that “all hands are on deck” to produce the quality outcome needed from 2018 and beyond.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The project, she said, has been carefully designed, with specific measureable markers lending attainability to the results. It has four phases, beginning at the nursery and ending at the tertiary level.&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Those components include training teachers and lecturers in course delivery and teaching practices. Educators are also expected to ensure that the students are part of the performance evaluation system, which she said has been tested and has shown qualitative results in the primary and the secondary schools. The Ministry will also be acquiring technology for higher quality education to facilitate learning in classrooms in remote areas, the Minister related. “The components are pillars of a new system of education that transform students. Teachers development and training is important,” she said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Speaking also at the event was Chief Education Officer (CEO), Mr Marcel Hutson, who said that the dynamic nature of education requires constant review and research of programmes, with a view of the education system being relevant by meeting the social and economic needs of a society. He said the Ministry’s intention is to produce global citizens that will add value to the country and the world at large.<br />\r\nAccording to him, the success of the project requires a multiplicity of informed decisions to be taken; which is what the project is all about. “Some of those decisions include the review of the curriculum, which is the core of any education system,” he said. It is therefore incumbent upon us to ensure that the curriculum is so structured,” he added.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He, too, pointed out that the education system has struggled with Mathematics and English, which is why more focus will be given to a more “hands-on approach to the teaching of these subjects”. He said there will also be a concentration on the use of technology on the teaching/learning process. ENCERD Director, Ms Jennifer Cumberbatch, said the project brings everyone closer to a new and improved curriculum, which is considered the heart of any learning institution. An effective curriculum, she said, provides teachers and administrators with a measure of plan and structure of delivering quality education. “A reviewed curriculum is long overdue. There are many new and emerging challenges and demands to education and on curriculum,” Cumberbatch noted. She said that seeing that the last curriculum review was done in the 1990s, it is high time for a renewal.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Cumberbatch said the revised curriculum will promote the development of competencies, including critical thinking, the use of technology, problem solving etc. “With this spiral curriculum that we intend to have; we will see that our nursery, primary, secondary and tertiary levels indeed support each other,” she promised.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/09/21/decades-old-school-curriculum-reviewed\">http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/09/21/decades-old-school-curriculum-reviewed</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 404, 413, 'und', 0, '<p>While many feel that much of Guyana’s political issues will be solved with proper constitutional reform, former Attorney General, Anil Nandlall is saying no. While he admitted that Constitutional Reform is important, Nandlall thinks that the solution to the issue is more fundamental. Nandlall said that Guyana needs more matured politicians who are prepared to stay true to the existing Constitution. The politician made his views known as he delivered remarks at the Turkeyen and Tain Talks 9, sponsored by the University of Guyana. The event was hosted at the Pegasus Hotel on Thursday evening under the theme “Constitutional Reform- To Court Brave Change or To Leave Well Enough Alone?”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>At that forum, Nandlall was keen to note that his position as reflected in his opinions is not synonymous to the position held by the People’s Progressive Party of which he is an Executive Member.<br />\r\nNandlall told those who gathered that the international community seems hell bent on Constitutional Reform. He noted, “The Carter Centre desires to see constitutional reform. The British High Commissioner has expressed his government’s disappointment at the slow movement towards constitutional reform. A team visiting recently from the United Nations, advocated for constitutional reform. Constitutional reform was a major plank of the APNU+AFC’s manifesto, at the 2015 General and Regional Elections.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Nandlall said that academics and jurists alike have often described constitutions like ours, as organic and alive. He said that he subscribes to this view. “Therefore, like any other law, nay, more than any other law, our constitution must necessarily remain dynamic and under constant review with a view of reform, so that it can adapt to meet the exigencies of a changing and evolving society.” Therefore, said Nandlall, the nature and magnitude of constitutional reform must be driven and determined by the society itself, in which the constitution operates. That view is also held by the British as expressed recently by its High Commissioner, Greg Quinn.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>However, Nandlall said that while Constitutional reform is important, it is not the prognosis to the many political and social ills diagnosed in Guyana. Nandlall said that the last major set of constitutional reforms occurred in Guyana in 2001, where about 200 fundamental changes were made to the then constitution. Nandlall asked, “Has our society evolved so drastically, over the ensuing 17 years, to precipitate the monumental constitutional reforms which are now being contemplated? I do not see cogent and compelling reasons being advanced for constitutional reform. Neither do I see, efficacious proposals of the reform themselves. In my view, only when these two sets of information become available for scrutiny, that one can make an informed decision on the matter. Therefore, I have questions.”<br />\r\nHe continued, “Are we being pushed to constitutional reform because of foreign influence? Have we convinced ourselves that our constitution and the breadth of its provisions do not meet the needs of the people of Guyana and are therefore, ineffective and unworkable?”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Nandlall said that when public officials comply with constitutional measures and prescriptions, there is no room for a challenge to their actions on the ground of a want of constitutionality. Problems however arise, he said, when public officials either deliberately, or out of ignorance, violate the provisions of the constitution. “It is in these circumstances that some are wont to say that provisions of our constitution are ineffective and unworkable. I, however, respectfully submit that deliberate violation of, or non-compliance with, the provisions of the constitution in governmental affairs by public functionaries do not equate to ineffectiveness or unworkability of the scheme of our constitution, justifying an ill- considered rush to constitutional reform,” said Nandlall.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>As a case in point, Nandlall noted the fact that the constitution insulates the Service Commissions from any direction or influence from any other body or authority. He said however, it is now public knowledge that in two successive years, two different Ministers of Government, wrote to two different service commissions, purporting to issue directions to them from the President, not to proceed with the discharge of their constitutional duties- a clear violation of the Constitution. “Does this render the constitution ineffective and unworkable, to justify its reform? I think not. And on this particular issue, what are we reforming the constitution to achieve? Would it be to remove the protective insulation with which these Commissions are clothe, so that they can actually be directed and influenced by extraneous bodies and authorities? I hope not.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Further, Nandlall said that he is not oblivious to the fact that one major component of the reforms which is being canvassed, seeks to constitutionalize an arrangement for executive power sharing between and among the major political parties of the country. He called this a “noble ideal” but questioned, “Do the level of maturity, trust and magnanimity, which are the prerequisites for such an arrangement to work, exist in our political environment?”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>To highlight Guyana’s “reality” in this regard, Nandlall again turned to more examples. He said that there is no greater constitutional expression of political power sharing in the current constitutional matrix, than the appointment of the Chief Justice and Chancellor of the Judiciary and, the appointment of a Chairman of GECOM. He said that in respect of all these appointments, the Constitution mandates processes which require the input of both, the Leader of the Opposition and the President. The appointments require the agreement of the Leader of the Opposition, before the President can make a final decision.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Nandlall noted that since this provision was introduced into the Constitution in 2001, no appointment has ever been made. Successive Leaders of the Opposition withheld their agreement from the appointment of the incumbent holders of those Offices. Not a reason was ever given. Nandlall said that in relation of the appointment of a Chairman of GECOM, a list of six names must originate from the Opposition Leader to the President, for him to select one for appointment. “18 names have been submitted by the Leader of the Opposition over the last nine months. An appointment is still to be made. A hitherto seamless and straight-forward constitutional process has suddenly become complex, complicated and controversial. Simple and clear language of the Constitution has suddenly become obscure, ambiguous and unequivocal.” Nandlall said that with those considerations, it is clear to him that “the need for constitutional compliance trumps the need for fundamental constitutional reforms.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2017/09/23/political-maturity-constitutional-compliance-more-vital-than-their-reforms/\">https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2017/09/23/political-maturity-constitutional-compliance-more-vital-than-their-reforms/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html');
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('news', 0, 405, 414, 'und', 0, '<p>Newly-formed civil society group RISE Guyana and other speakers at a University of Guyana forum on Thursday called for a return to constituency voting at general elections and there were also appeals for broad consultations on the reform of the constitution.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Represented by businessman Terrence Campbell, Reform, Inspire, Sustain and Educate (RISE) argued that while the 1999 Constitution Reform Commission accomplished much, it “erred when it recommended that the electoral system should remain that of proportional representation.”&nbsp; Some constituency voting was introduced for the local government system used for elections held last year.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Campbell told the gathering at the 9th Turkeyen and Tain Talks at the Pegasus Hotel that RISE has had discussions with the man-in-the-street, members of the government, the opposition and Guyanese in the Diaspora which “revealed an overwhelming preference for a return to a constituency-based system.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to Campbell, such a system would improve accountability and independence since Members of Parliament will need to focus first on representing their constituents rather than serving a political party and party leader.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Citing another recommendation from the 1999 Commission, Campbell asked why the involvement of individuals was proposed at the local but not at the national level.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“A repeal of the List System and post-election coalitions should all be connected with a return to a constituency system,” he stressed</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He further argued for a restructuring of the Constitutional Court so that the hearings of constitutional matters can be expedited.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Reminding that an election petition filed in February 1997 was not determined until January, 2001 and that others filed by the AFC in 2006 and the PPP in 2015 slowly made their way through the system, Campbell contrasted this situation with Kenya’s Constitutional Court which took just about three weeks to hear and overturn the 2017 presidential election in that country.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He called for a Constitutional Court made up of at least five judges, including a minimum of two Appellate judges. The quorum for this Court would be three judges and appeals would go directly to the Caribbean Court of Justice.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to Campbell, a Constitutional Court structured in this manner would minimise accusations of bias that persist since all constitutional matters are heard by the Chief Justice sitting alone.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Another area for reform identified was the appointment of senior public service and judicial personnel.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The argument is that candidates for the offices of Chancellor of the Judiciary, the Chief Justice, the Commissioner of Police, the Chief of Staff of the GDF, the Ombudsman, the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission, the Auditor General, Director of Public Prosecutions and all other senior constitutional office holders should have parliamentary confirmation hearings.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to Campbell, such appointments should require parliamentary confirmation with a two-thirds majority and the President’s power to make acting appointments should be removed.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He argued that a similar broad-based appointment procedure is responsible for the respect enjoyed by the German Constitutional Court.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Directly</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Additional suggested reforms included the public right to propose legislation directly to the National Assembly and a removal of the restriction on those holding dual citizenship running for seats in the National Assembly.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>RISE recommended that legislation proposed by members of the public should be accompanied by a petition signed by at least 20,000 qualified electors, while citizens resident in Guyana for at least three years prior to the election should be eligible for seats even if they have dual citizenship.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>A repeal of the article regulating Technocrat Ministers is another area of reform proposed since, according to RISE, it “restricts the President’s ability to involve competent persons from civil society in the process of governance.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Currently, Article 103(3) gives effect to the 1999 Commission recommendations on the number of Technocrat Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries. No more than four Ministers and two Parliamentary Secretaries are provided for.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The group has also taken aim at presidential immunities, campaign financing and a Sovereign Wealth Fund.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>It was argued that whilst the immunities of the President were reduced based on the recommendations of the 1999 Commission, they should be reduced further so that the President becomes clearly answerable for acts personal and official once he demits office.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Noting that the political system in Guyana favours the established parties, RISE argued that the ability of governing parties to hand out contracts and to co-opt the resources of the state generally gives them an overall advantage. RISE has asked that at the minimum all donations above a certain threshold must be disclosed, donations from foreign citizens and businesses should be illegal and independent audits of the records of all individuals, political parties and political action committees participating in national elections should be mandatory.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Violations should result in the forfeiture of seats and imprisonment,” Campbell stated, before calling for details regarding the proportion of oil revenues that will be assigned to the Sovereign Wealth Fund, the type of investments that can be made both in terms of risk and ethics and the criteria for withdrawal to be entrenched in the Constitution.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Reflect</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Campbell was one of eight speakers. The others were Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman, former Attorney General Anil Nandlall, Chair of the Women and Gender Equality Commission Indra Chandarpal, Rosemary Benjamin-Noble of the Rights of the Child Commission, Shameza David of the Guyana National Youth Council, Jean La Rose of the Amerindian People’s Association and elections commissioner Vincent Alexander.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The majority of the speakers expressed the view that any process of constitutional reform must reflect a clear mandate of the people of Guyana even as they noted that any reform process will not address the current failures to adhere to constitutional provisions. The talk sought to address the issue of Constitutional Reform and asked its panelists whether Guyana should “court brave change or leave well enough alone?”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Alexander noted that since Guyana’s constitution is its people’s contract, it should reflect the people’s will.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In his seven-minute presentation, he reminded that the process of reform itself must reflect the principles of good governance by being inclusive, open, equitable and transparent. Those involved in the process, he argued, must first seek national consensus on a renewed approach for constitutional reform and engage in a process that is research-based and consultative.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Speaking directly to areas of the constitution that might require revamping, Alexander noted that the ways in which decision-making bodies are established could allow the electorate greater latitude to decide their composition while measures to ensure constitutional provisions are honoured should also be included.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Chandarpal also stressed that any attempt to change the constitution must be done against the background that the process must be as broad-based like the 1998-2001 reform process and must involve countrywide consultations.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>She also suggested that the Elections Law (Amendment) Act of 2001, which provides for one third of electoral candidates to be female, be included in the constitution as well as Sustainable Development Goal Number 5. This goal calls for states to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>La Rose spoke to the failure of the constitution to acknowledge the importance of land to the country’s Indigenous peoples.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“It is our home, our pharmacy, our supermarket. It is really important and this is not articulated in the constitution,” she stressed before also calling for the meaningful involvement of Indigenous people in the reform process.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Also calling for inclusion was the youth representative Shameza David. David noted that the reality of young people in Guyana does not reflect the reality of the preamble of the constitution, which directs that their rights must be protected and their potential recognised.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>She stressed that in this case it is not the constitution which has failed but its execution.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>She further called for cancellation of the list system by which legislative representatives are identified, while arguing that a constituency-based first-past-the-post system would foster greater accountability on the part of parliamentarians.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“We don’t know who our representatives are,” she stressed.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Turkeyen-Tain talks is a bi-monthly thought forum to facilitate informed and respectful discourse on matters of public interest.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/09/23/rise-plugs-constituency-voting-at-constitution-reform-forum/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/09/23/rise-plugs-constituency-voting-at-constitution-reform-forum/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 406, 415, 'und', 0, '<p>After earning her place in this year’s University of Guyana law programme, Guyana Times reporter Paula Gomes was on Friday awarded the first ever Clarence A F Hughes scholarship for Indigenous students pursuing an LLB.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>This is as the Amerindian People’s Association (APA) seeks to secure sponsorship for Indigenous students to ensure that high flyers are given the opportunity to chase after advanced levels of education.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Shortly after gaining entry to the UG LLB programme, Gomes, who hails from Paramakatoi Village in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), reached out to the APA for financial aid as she reads for her LLB.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>As a result of her request, the representative body of Indigenous peoples extended her application to the Hughes, Fields &amp; Stoby Law Firm who responded favourable.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The 20-year-old is now the first ever recipient of this scholarship which provides full funding for the education of promising Indigenous youths who will be embarking on the journey of becoming an Attorney.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Speaking at the presentation ceremony which was hosted at the office of the law firm, Attorney Nigel Hughes, congratulated the young reporter, alluding to the longstanding relationship his firm shares with the APA.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Attorney went on to say that, “I am happy to say that the APA contacted us last week and they identified what I believe is the best candidate to pursue an LLB course at the University of Guyana and as a result of our collaboration, Hughes, Fields &amp; Stoby have agreed to fund the entire law programme for Ms Gomes.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He pointed out that Gomes’ outstanding results at the Caribbean Examination Council examination was a positive factor leading to the award of the scholarship. “She will perform extraordinarily well and we are honoured and privileged to have been afforded this opportunity to provide this scholarship for Miss Gomes.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile, in her address at the ceremony, awardee Paula Gomes extended gratitude to both the law firm and the APA while highlighting the significance of this contribution, especially as it relates to the development of the first peoples of Guyana.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>On that note, Gomes stated, “while I applaud the generosity of Mr Hughes and his law firm, I believe that there should be more awards of this kind for I know of many Indigenous persons who are not able to realise and unleash their full potentials simply because of financial constraints.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>With that being said, the aspiring lawyer assured that the investment will have a significant ripple effect on her community and the first peoples at large. She even offered words of advice to others looking to follow in her footsteps by saying, “Being an Indigenous person and being someone who truly knows the struggles of Indigenous peoples, I would like them (other Indigenous students) to know that the opportunities are endless if only you reach out far enough.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The scholarship awarded to Gomes marks the first award to be made in honour of the late Attorney, Clarence A F Hughes and sets the way for others to benefit, with talks of it becoming an annual initiative.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/09/23/rise-plugs-constituency-voting-at-constitution-reform-forum/#comments\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/09/23/rise-plugs-constituency-voting-at-constitution-reform-forum/#comments</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 408, 417, 'und', 0, '<p>Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, has insisted that the administration remains committed to constitutional reform. The Minister was at the time speaking on behalf of Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo at the University of Guyana’s ninth round of Tain and Turkeyen Talks. This round focused on constitutional reform and whether efforts to have the constitution changed should be continued, or whether it should remain as it is. According to Minister Trotman, “The government of Guyana has made efforts to keep this matter on the front burner, we did make a manifesto promise for constitutional reform.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The constitutional reform Bill was presented to the National Assembly for the first time in July 2017. A constitutional reform consultative commission Bill was drafted to pave the way for the establishment of a Constitutional Reform Consultative Commission. “We have worked on the Constitutional Reform Consultative Commission bill which is a large measure taken from the 1998 bill which was crafted during the seventh parliament and is now with the review committee of Parliament,” Minister Trotman explained.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>A successful constitutional reform process must emphasise meaningful dialogue, negotiation, and compromise on the part of the government, opposition and citizens. In this regard, Minister Trotman added, “I believe that it is all of our responsibility government opposition, civil society, academia, youth, women all of us, we all have that equal responsibility.” Meanwhile, reports submitted by the initial steering committee indicate that the Constitutional Reform Commission (CRC) must be independent, representative and inclusive of civil society. The public at large must be provided with opportunities to participate in consultations. Public education is also to be a major area of focus. Other support agencies can also contribute their bit to the process of consultation and reform. “I dare say that the government welcomes every initiative to move the process forward,” Minister Trotman remarked.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2017/09/27/constitutional-reform-still-a-government-priority/\">https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2017/09/27/constitutional-reform-still-a-government-priority/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 409, 418, 'und', 0, '<p>The teaching of broadcasting and the production of quality content are set to receive a major boost when the University of Guyana (UG) switches on its radio station by next year Easter, the tertiary institution announced in unveiling the project on Wednesday.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Deputy Vice Chancellor (Philanthropy, Alumni and Civic Engagement), Professor Paloma Mohamed, said the project would cost US$79,000.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The 30 watt FM transmitter, which is expected to target a radius of 15 miles from its location at the Turkeyen Campus, Greater Georgetown, is expected in Guyana by January, 2018. UG had wanted a 30-mile radius, but Mohamed said they were unsuccessful.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Minister of Public Telecommunications, Catherine Hughes said the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) would be granting the licence after the new and modern FM transmitter arrives in Guyana soon. “Until the transmitter is set up and we can actually do our testing and determine the right frequencies, we cannot prepare and print that licence and hand it over,” she said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Chairman of the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA), Leslie Sobers pledged that regulatory agency’s commitment to ensuring that UG receives its radio licence after technical details are ironed out. “The Guyana National Broadcasting Authority stands committed to ensuring that the University of Guyana receives its broadcasting licence,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mohammed said eventually UG would be broadcasting on its own television channel, providing an added opportunity for the Journalism and Communication students to receive hands-on training in live and production environments. “Part of the big gap that this is going to full is that we are going to be able to train people to do live on-air broadcasting in both radio television. It is going to create a forum for our student-led and faculty-led productions to be used by a wider community so it’s not produced and just left there,” she said. She added that youths from the community and media practitioners would also be trained.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>She praised the Guyana Press Association (GPA) for consistently clamouring for UG to once again receive a &nbsp;radio license.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Although UG had been granted a radio license up to 1990 when it was not renewed and the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), Ohio University and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) had funded the equipping of the radio studios, the station never went on air full-time, except for short test-transmissions.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Minister Hughes recalled that in 2011 radio licences had been “shared out like chico sweets”, in apparent reference to then President Bharrat Jagdeo’s granting of several radio licences to individuals before broadcasting legislation was approved.. She said UG’s radio station would be a “very important training tool”. “It will provide the important opportunity to transfer theoretical knowledge into practical on-the-job training. It will also save the university some expenses and most importantly communication students can save some time and money, especially those students who in the past have had to go to private stations or to record their course assignments,” said Hughes, a former broadcast journalist and producer. Hughes noted that university radio stations usually cement their relationships with the community.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>President David Granger recently assented to amendments to the Broadcasting Act, despite outcries by local radio and television broadcasters, the Guyana Press Association, Association of Caribbean Media Worker and Reporters Without Borders.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://demerarawaves.com/2017/09/27/university-of-guyana-prepares-to-switch-on-radio-station/\">http://demerarawaves.com/2017/09/27/university-of-guyana-prepares-to-switch-on-radio-station/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 410, 419, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana took first innings honours over GNIC in the latest round of the GISE, Star Party Rental &amp; Trophy Stall 1st Division 2-day competition over the weekend which was played at the Malteenoes Sports Club ground.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>GNIC after losing the toss was inserted on the rain affect day and compiled 156 for nine before declaring their innings closed.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ranole Bourne was the centerpiece of the innings after stroking 84 in GNIC’s batting effort as former national youth players; off spinner Linden Austin and Michael Shalim grabbed four wickets apiece for the students who ended day one 18 – 1.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG, however, manage to cruise past their first innings total on day two by posting 240 all out from 52 overs. Opener Nicholas Carryl scored 44 while Shalim retuned to also record 44 as UG gained a lead of 84.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>GNIC in their second innings reached 100 for3 when play was called as Vidal Crandon was unbeaten on 63.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/sports/09/27/ug-secures-first-innings-honours-over-gnic/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/sports/09/27/ug-secures-first-innings-honours-over-gnic/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 411, 420, 'und', 0, '<p>University of Guyana (UG) executive staff members will have to await the appointment of a Council before they are paid salary increases, but academic and non-academic staff can receive their six to eight percent salary hike by October 9.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG Registrar, Dr. Nigel Gravesande told Demerara Waves Online News that the executive staff members would not be paid until the Council is constituted. The Ministry of Education is yet to name a Council since the life of the last decision-making body ended in July.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Gravesande said the eight percent&nbsp; to non-academic staff and six percent to academic staff retroactive to January 1, 2017 would amount to GYD$181 million. He could not say whether there would be any money left over after the pay-out.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In a statement issued Saturday, UG sought to dispel claims that the Workers Union (UGWU) and Senior Staff Association (UGSSA) were never informed that the executive staff would not be paid along with other workers.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“It is to be noted, as well, that exclusion of the University’s executive members from the negotiation package and consequential benefits was communicated clearly and unambiguously to the unions on September 20, 2017 in a letter which stated that, “the administration is committed to consummating an agreement that will not include members of the executive, but will include elements of performance …,” the institution said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Registrar could not say whether the performance yardstick would take the form of a merit-increment system to determine how much workers would actually receive.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The UG statement referred to a September 27, 2017 communication by Vice Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith to the university community that states&nbsp; “I am ready to sign the agreement and begin the payments. If the agreement is signed within the next 10 days, the payments can be made with the October 2017 salaries.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The administration said its “final offer” of six and eight percent were communicated to the union presidents on August 30, 2017&nbsp; “in the context of what is affordable in keeping with the mandate by the University Council.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Administration said it has honored all requests by the unions for financial and other information during the period of the negotiation, which began on July 12.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Increases in salaries and pension, Griffith said, were not the only financial obligations the University has to bear, saying that other benefits such as allowances for travelling, entertainment, uniforms and academic materials; study leave (salary and housing for three months); sabbatical leave (salary and housing for 12 months); leave passage; and duty allowance for Deans, Heads and Co-coordinators must be added to the list.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The University says it continues to pay an average of 4.5 percent merit award to all eligible members of the staff annually.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The Vice-Chancellor takes this opportunity to thank the hundreds of dedicated academic and non-academic staff members for their exemplary service, and looks forward to the collective efforts to enhance the University’s teaching and learning, research, and service to the University community and the wider society,” UG said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UGWU President, Bruce Haynes has said that workers might be willing accept the pay increase offer if they were given sufficient information such as where the money would be drawn from to pay the executive team members.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://demerarawaves.com/2017/09/30/ug-executives-salary-increase-hinges-on-council-appointment-ready-to-pay-other-staff-next-week/\">http://demerarawaves.com/2017/09/30/ug-executives-salary-increase-hinges-on-council-appointment-ready-to-pay-other-staff-next-week/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 414, 423, 'und', 0, '<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>Following extensive negotiations with the two university unions, the Administration extended its final offer of eight percent (8%) to UB staff members and six percent (6%) to UA members for the 2017 calendar year, retroactive to January 1, 2017. This offer was conveyed to the union presidents on August 30, 2017, in the context of what is affordable in keeping with the mandate by the University Council. Moreover, Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith has stressed from the outset that performance of staff members will be a key consideration.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Administration has honored all requests by the unions for financial and other information during the period of the negotiation, which began on July 12. It is to be noted, as well, that exclusion of the University’s executive members from the negotiation package and consequential benefits was communicated clearly and unambiguously to the unions on September 20, 2017 in a letter which stated that, “the administration is committed to consummating an agreement that will not include members of the executive, but will include elements of performance ...’</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Also, the Administration reiterates what the unions know and what has been shared with the University community, most recently in a September 27, 2017 note from the Vice-Chancellor: that “increases in base salaries and pension are not the only financial obligations the University has to bear. These obligations include benefits such as allowances for travelling, entertainment, uniforms and academic materials; study leave (salary and housing for three months); sabbatical leave (salary and housing for 12 months); leave passage; and duty allowance for Deans, Heads and Co-coordinators.” In addition, as was indicated in the New Academic Year Welcome Back memorandum from the Vice-Chancellor, “The University continues to pay an average of 4.5 percent merit award to all eligible members of the staff annually.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In his September 27, 2017 update to the University community, Vice-Chancellor Griffith noted, “I am ready to sign the agreement and begin the payments. If the agreement is signed within the next 10 days, the payments can be made with the October 2017 salaries.” The Vice-Chancellor takes this opportunity to thank the hundreds of dedicated academic and non-academic staff members for their exemplary service, and looks forward to the collective efforts to enhance the University’s teaching and learning, research, and service to the University community and the wider society.</p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\">###</p>\r\n\r\n<h3><strong>UG IN BRIEF</strong></h3>\r\n\r\n<p>With a current enrollment of some 8,000 students, The University of Guyana (UG) has graduated more than 20,000 students who have gone on to successful careers locally, regionally and internationally. The University is also a major contributor to the national economy and to business and industry. Established in 1963 on a part-time basis with shared space at Queens College, UG moved to its own campus at Turkeyen in 1970 and expanded in 2000 with the addition of the Tain Campus. It now offers more than 60 Under- graduate and Post-graduate Programmes including Engineering, Environmental Studies, Forestry, Urban Planning and Management, Tourism Studies, Education, Creative Arts, Economics, Law, Medicine, Optometry and Nursing. Several online programmes are available and The UG also offers extra-mural classes at four locations through its Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE). The UG also offers the opportunity for student engagement in debating, sports, and cultural, religious and professional activities.</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>Public Relations Division<br />\r\nSeptember 30, 2017&nbsp;</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 415, 424, 'und', 0, '<p>To commemorate the international days of Democracy and Universal Access to Information, the University of Guyana (UG) yesterday unveiled a mural, which it has dubbed the “Democracy Wall.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Painted and designed by students Elodie Cage-Smith, Collis White and Rayann Darrell, the mural, located on the western end of the Natural Sciences building on the Turkeyen Campus, is intended to serve as a canvass for the inscription of views on the significance of the two days.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Ivelaw Griffith and European Union (EU) Ambassador to Guyana Jernej Videtič were the first and second persons, respectively, to sign the mural, after inscribing their concepts of democracy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The launch of the ‘Democracy Wall’ was a collaborative effort between UG and the EU.</p>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>&nbsp;</div>\r\n</div>\r\n\r\n<p>Delivering the feature address at the simple ceremony yesterday,&nbsp; Videtič said that democracy goes far beyond the idea of merely casting ballots in an election. He told the small gathering of students and staff members that democracy must be seen as “a whole way of life.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He said democracy can be exemplified by simply solving disputes in the classroom through dialogue, as opposed to fighting, as well as by insisting as citizens that “our leaders serve us, and not themselves.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to the Ambassador, the International Day of Democracy, observed on September 15, was adopted by the United Nations in 2007 and represents an opportunity to promote the principles of democracy, by inviting states and organisations to appropriately commemorate the day to raise public awareness.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Videtič said that the EU is founded on a strong engagement to promoting democracy and the rule of law worldwide and added that “sustainable peace and stability, long term development and prosperity cannot exist without respect for democratic institutions.”</p>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>&nbsp;</div>\r\n</div>\r\n\r\n<p>Such commitments to democracy, he said, underpins both internal and external qualities of the EU. He noted that the EU’s democracy policy encompasses “civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Ambassador said it is the belief of the EU that democracy is the only political system which can fully realise all human rights even as he reminded that democracy is an ongoing process which has to be carefully nurtured.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Underscoring that democracies are not always perfect, Videtič said that it is the essence of democracy “to be aware of the shortcomings and realise that it is never achieved once for all, hence the need for constant care and a critical and vigilant eye.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The ambassador said the EU stays committed to democratic reforms, so much so that it “remains a leading global actor in deploying election observation missions, earmarking 45 million euros annually, as well as providing electoral assistance, funding projects of more than 180 million euros in 39 partner countries in the last few years.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>While echoing the ambassador’s sentiments, Vice-Chancellor Griffith stressed that the rights conferred by democracy must conform to concomitant responsibilities, even as he drew the nexus between democracy and access to information.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Griffith noted that to have the accentuation of rights without responsibilities “is to be doing only part of the pursuit of democracy.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Quoting from the late Nelson Mandela, Griffith noted that “an educated, enlightened and informed population, is one of the surest ways of promoting the health of a democracy.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The International Day of Democracy and the International Day for Universal Access to Information, were celebrated on September 15 and 28, respectively.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/10/04/democracy-wall-unveiled-at-ug/#comments\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/10/04/democracy-wall-unveiled-at-ug/#comments</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 416, 425, 'und', 0, '<h4><strong>Labaria snakes and the corruption culture in Guyana</strong></h4>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>By Dr. Ken Danns</strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A CULTURE of corruption has for many decades been entrenched in the Guyana society. This culture has been driven by a normative disposition to utilise public office and government bureaucratic authority to unlawfully appropriate the resources of the government – both national and local – and the country as a whole for private gain.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The players in this venal culture include some politicians, some public servants, some local government officials, elements of both the local and foreign private sectors, and many ordinary citizens as well. Corruption stems from a mindset of greed. Corruption in Guyana is cultural collusion and a widely supported disposition to dishonest appropriation of public resources. It is often engendered in fraudulent relationships with likeminded individuals or unwitting victims.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>A corrupt culture is bred and sustained by governmental systems characterized by the lack of transparency and accountability and by authoritarian rule. The end result of widespread corruption in a society is: widespread inequality in wealth distribution; the retardation of progress; the erosion of trust and legitimacy for systems of governance, the alienation of citizens and the arrested development of their country.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Guyana has proven over the years to be a textbook case of a resilient corruption culture. Transparency International, a global agency concerned with monitoring corruption ranked Guyana a high 108 out of 176 countries in its 2016 index, which rated countries from the least to the most corrupt. Guyana received a score of 34. Anything below 50 is seen as a government failing to tackle corruption. Transparency International concluded: “In Guyana, economic hardship, institutional weaknesses, criminal justice inefficiencies, as well as racial fractures in society provide fertile grounds for corruption… all major governance indicators suggest high and deteriorating levels of perceived corruption in the country and the prevalence of both bureaucratic and political forms of corruption.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In 1978, the authoritarian PNC Government in recognition that corruption had reached epidemic proportions launched a “clean-up campaign against corruption in high places.” Then Prime Minister Forbes Burnham promised that “toes will be mashed.” Commissions of inquiry were established to examine practices in various public corporations. Public corporation managers were dismissed without protest; other public officials were brought before the courts, including police and army officers and junior public servants.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>On May 10, 1979 the Guyana Chronicle reported that Deputy Prime Minister and PNC Party General Secretary, Dr. Ptolemy Reid “renewed the call for supervisors and management workers to refrain from dishonest and malicious acts which endanger the welfare of the broad masses of the Guyanese population.” He said some workers, as soon as they were placed in responsible positions and enjoying a certain quality of living standards, pounced upon every opportunity to defraud and conduct corrupt practices to further enrich themselves.” In graphic language the Deputy Prime Minister Ptolemy Reid asserted that the perpetrators of such acts were like “labaria snakes,” which attack when the opponent is near. Dr. Reid added that “the same attitude was evident by workers who were near to the party and government machinery who hit with ferocious and deadly blows at the nation’s coffers.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dr. Ptolemy Reid, who was also a veterinary surgeon by profession, knew the characteristics of this specie of vipers very well. Their bites are painful and they use their venom to immobilise and digest their prey. Politicians, public servants, local and foreign business people and members of the public who are corrupt are akin to vipers… labaria snakes. They strike with venomous greed and ferocity on the resources and the institutions of the nation, immobilising its functioning and in the process poison public morality and trust.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The former People’s Progressive Party ruled the country for 23 years during which time their governance deepened and expanded corruption in Guyana beyond belief. The local and foreign media, the public, leading foreign governments which dispense aid and loans to Guyana, and Transparency International all lamented the rampant corruption. The kleptocracy that became manifest led the distinguished Guyanese Economist, Dr. Clive Thomas to conclude that the PPP/C rule led to the emergence and institutionalisation of a criminal state. The criminal state Thomas asserted is a “state for itself – it is primarily geared to function as an instrumentality for the accumulation of wealth for those who operate it.” Thomas pointed out that corrupt practices ranged from the executive’s purposeful establishment of illicit slush funds, repeated unauthorised spending of public monies, fraudulent public procurements contracts, illegal capital flows, particularly illicit mis-invoicing of exports and imports, illicit financial transactions, and irregular and illegal use of state agencies to intimidate individuals and “group-affiliated government critics,” as well as to penalise those private businesses that are not supporting the ruling PPP/C administration.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Politicians who are corrupt generally occupy positions of authority and may use their public office for illicit private gain; dispense patronage benefits to family, friends and supporters; engage in corrupt transactions with local and foreign business people; and unlawfully deny access to resources by others because of their party, race, religion or other social criteria. The politically corrupt are invariably in a position to introduce laws, regulations and policies to further venal objectives. Often they collaborate with other corrupt politicians marinating their plans and striking the nation’s coffers from their vipers’ pit.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Public servants who engage in corrupt practices may do so out of personal greed, to compensate for inadequate salaries, and in response to pressure from politicians or the public to compromise their functioning from the straight and narrow. Corrupt public bureaucratic officials frustrate the attainment of governmental goals and objectives. Their actions subvert progress making it difficult, if not impossible to implement policies, build or maintain projects and deliver reliable services or goods to the public. Their labaria attacks gum up the works creating widespread inefficiencies, lack of accountability and paralysis. Indeed, many governmental projects that are stalled, failing or less than efficient are infected by corrupt practices.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Elements of the local and foreign private sector are integral to promoting and sustaining a corrupt culture in Guyana. It is a mistake to think that corruption in Guyana is possible without the activist involvement and partnership of elements of the private sector. Labaria politicians and labaria public servants invariably work in collusion with like-minded business officials who are seeking the award of contracts, the avoidance of taxation, custom duty and other penalties, waivers of regulations, and, unfair if not outright unlawful access to public resources and property. Private Sector organisations will publicly condemn and speak out against corruption often not acknowledging that some of their own members may be drivers of it. Some foreign businesses are often pressured into offering bribes and kickbacks in order to expedite their business or obtain concessions. Some foreign businesses delight in dealing with corrupt politicians and public officials. By doing so they are able to maximize profits and benefits, ignore the laws and regulations of the country, extract and export the nation’s resources, and inflict serious damage on the natural environment. Guyana loses big time when corrupt politicians sell the nation’s birthright for a mess of pottage.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>LINES</strong><br />\r\nElements of the general public are also involved in the corruption culture. Many Guyanese like to get things done through “lines”. “Lines” refer to a normative disposition to get things done or obtain services and goods through bypassing official regulations and procedures. Byzantine and ineffective public bureaucracies make it necessary to use “lines” to get even the most routine transactions done in a timely manner. The use of “lines” undermine transparency and accountability in public transactions and public institutions. Basic principles of fairness and justice are violated as the user of “lines” is afforded preferential treatment while others are made to wait longer, obtain less or are even be denied altogether. Some members of the public also bribe public officials to obtain goods and services or to avoid prosecution and penalties. Citizens often know which public officials are corrupt and even have false names for them. The attitude of such citizens is that the “big ones” doing it, so we can do it too.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The underground economy in Guyana is a viable conduit for corrupt transactions. The participants in this economy are guerilla entrepreneurs involved in tax and regulatory evasions and varied criminal activities. The illegal drug trade is illustrative of the underground economy. It is an industry of vipers. It corrupts the society at all levels, compromising the integrity of some politicians and public officials as well as members of the public. The drug trade corrupts other sectors leading to money laundering, including the establishment of legally registered businesses as cover for the nefarious trade.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The new APNU+AFC Government has inherited this monster corruption culture and must do something about it. Corruption in Guyana is embedded in the society and cannot be wished away by speeches and threats. Economist Dr. Clive Thomas estimated that well in excess of $333 – $340B were annually stolen and that 60 percent of the Guyana economy was being run by a financial underworld. Several agencies have been established to investigate corruption. These are the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), State Assets Recovery Agency (SARA) and the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In Latin American countries leading politicians and public officials have been charged for corruption while in office. Among these are two recent Presidents of Guyana’s huge neighbour, Brazil. So far in Guyana no big fishes have been caught. No toes have been mashed. No heads have been rolled. No snakes have been snared. Forensic audits, foreign experts and commissions of inquiry have so far not yielded tangible outcomes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The problem with corruption in Guyana is that it is there for all to see. It is in your face! Some politicians and public officials were able to build mansions, have huge bank accounts locally and abroad, and display other conspicuous acquisitions, which based on their annual salaries it would be impossible to honestly acquire. As the widespread corrupt practices of the past government recede in the memory of the public, the APNU+AFC Coalition Government will be saddled with the legacy of a still vibrant corruption culture which may undermine its own capacity to survive and be re-elected. The labaria pits may appear dormant but they are very much active and pose a serious threat to transparency and accountability in this fledgling democracy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/10/03/thinking-promoting-development\">http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/10/03/thinking-promoting-development</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'full_html');
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('news', 0, 417, 426, 'und', 0, '<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>He will tell you that his last name is Martins; people usually leave out the last letter. Martins is a Portuguese&nbsp;name; Dave’s forebears took the boat from Madeira. The stormy seas ended in British Guiana and the Empire has pro- duced a musician that has become an international icon.&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dave Martins and the Trade Winds have etched their names in the folklore of the Caribbean. The Trade Winds is 51 years old and is going strong. Over the years, Dave has given us his wit, vision, and a unique ability to capture the feelings and mood of the people.&nbsp;Dave is originally from Hague on the West Coast of Demerara, in Guyana. When he was ten years old the family moved to Vreed-en-hoop. He attended St. Stanislaus High School where he had a liking for languages and a fascination for words and music. Dave played in a small group on the West Coast that focused on ballads and Latin music.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He said that, “the calypso was a perfect fit because I could twist and bend words. My aunt had a dry goods shop and there was a calypso from Trinidad about a boat that was going to Grenada that sunk. I was fascinated because people don’t usually write such songs. It captivated me.”&nbsp;Dave worked at Atkinson Airport for four years and then he migrated<br />\r\nto Canada in 1956. He became exposed to Trin- idadians that had a good record collection and the music wrapped him and held him in awe. Dave says that some of his early songs were influenced by that era.&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>How did the Trade Winds come about? He saw an advertisement in a Toronto newspaper from someone that wanted to start a Caribbean band. He answered the advertisement and a group of four musicians was born. The&nbsp;band sounded good and it was hired six nights a week. Dave moved away from mainly Latin music and he also changed the name of the group to the Debonairs. They could now play a mixture that included calypsos.</p>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>The band played in this genre for several years. The hectic schedule took its toll on Dave’s life and he gave up the weekly gig in 1963. He would play only on weekends but<br />\r\nthe music kept calling him. In 1966, he formed an all Caribbean band. He called it ‘The Trade Winds.’ Dave said that a metamorphosis occurred. “I discovered and appreciated Caribbean music by being away from it.”</p>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>He exposed the new band to the Caribbean and after writing four songs he decided to go to the Trinidad carnival. In three months one of the songs topped the charts and by 1967 the Trade Winds was a household name in the Caribbean. The band toured Guyana and played at the Astor cinema to sold out crowds.&nbsp;The Trade Winds has become an integral part of Caribbean life, producing one hit after another. Dave has made the connection with Caribbean society. He has blended music, humor and meaning in a tapestry in which we could laugh at ourselves and also appreciate the uniqueness of our Caribbean heritage. Here is a bouquet:</p>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>The lady calls the fire station with the cricket Test Match finely poised. She says frantically, “Send the fire brigade, my house in on fire.” The man at the fire station calmly replies, “Lady, please call back later. Sobers batting now!”&nbsp;Then there are the quirks that are unique to the Caribbean. When a person, ‘sit down bad’ how could this be&nbsp;expressed in proper English? How does one describe ruc- tion? How does one mis-average the flour in baking? When you eat too much ‘it gainst you.’ When the man can sing&nbsp;‘bad bad’ it means he can really sing!</p>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>In the Cayman Island if you eat something that doesn’t agree with you they describe it as ‘stalling.’ The point is that these are fodder for a musical mind and Dave has been able to us them in his repertoire to good effect. It is called the value and power&nbsp;of the dialect. Dave has resettled in Guyana for the last nine years and he is as creative as ever. His song ‘Postpone’ on the parking meters in Guyana shows a&nbsp;mind that is sharp and abreast with the times. One of his biggest hits is ‘Not a blade of grass’ and Dave explained its genesis. He said the idea came from Pat Cameron, a broadcaster at Radio Demerara.</p>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>She suggested to Dave that he should write a song about the Guyana-Venezuela border dispute.&nbsp;After some hesitation Dave put his mind to it. He was inspired by a speech<br />\r\nin which an Apache Indian stated that his people would not give up ‘a blade of grass’ to the white man. Dave said that the song wrote itself; he had it done in about an hour.&nbsp;The song has since become an anthem. Dave said that music will always be a part of his life. He credits his parents Zepherina and Joseph Francis for values they imparted in him as a child that have enabled him to treat people with respect and honesty and kindness.</p>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>Dave is impressed by the Trinidadian song writ- ers. They have produced volumes with ingenuity and joy. He pays tribute to singers such as Calypso Rose and the Mighty Sparrow and said that the Caribbean should honor its artists and heroes in a big way. Dave makes furniture and plant trees in his spare time and he is a good handyman as well.&nbsp;The University of Guyana has selected Dave to be the next Artist in Residence. This is on the initiative of the Vice Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith, and it is a most worthy choice. Dave cares deeply about the welfare of young people. He said that their success is influenced by their upbringing and they must not forget their roots.</p>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>A most memorable event occurred nine years ago when Dave met a beautiful young lady. She was Annette Arjoon. He was impressed with her knowledge of Amerindi- an life, her photography, aviation skills and ideas on conservation. Annette speaks highly of Dave’s generosity and humility. “He is the love of my life,” she says with a smile and they make a good team.&nbsp;David Anthony Martins is an icon, and a treasure that brings entertainment and wisdom to many.&nbsp;We wish him and his family all the best in the future.&nbsp;</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 418, 427, 'und', 0, '<p>As part of enhancing the national security strategy, the Guyana Defence Force, (GDF) yesterday inked a new agreement with the University of Guyana, (UG) to further the academic programme offered to army officers and ranks.&nbsp;According to Chief of Staff, Brigadier Patrick West, the Standard Officers Courses are set to be improved through collaboration with the tertiary institution.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The courses, the GDF Chief explained, are integral to “Effective Transformation for Total National Defence, an implementation of a national security strategy that employs all instruments of national power to meet the challenges faced by Guyana at this time.”&nbsp;“This would require a much higher degree of interagency cooperation than obtains at present to combine the defence with diplomacy economic development with the law enforcement and the civil authority with the Defence Force.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Giving a brief history on the projects, Brigadier West noted that the Officer Cadet Division at the Training Corps of the GDF evolved into the first Officer Cadet School in the English-speaking Caribbean.&nbsp;“The initiative was undertaken to ensure that a more rounded and educated officer is prepared to fulfill his role in promoting total National Defence. To date 49 Courses have been completed.”&nbsp;“We will see the officer not only being involved in a horizontal relationship between Defence Force, Militia and police but also vertically at the Central and Regional levels.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Through this initiative, the Brigadier noted that the Officer Cadet Programme will be almost on par with other international programmes.&nbsp;The course is set to last for 24 months. Upon graduation, the students will not only receive their instruments of Commission, to command and lead in this force, but also an associate Degree from the University.&nbsp;“We maintain, today, that we are still the only successful officer Cadet Programme in the English-speaking Caribbean and we will continue to support the training of officers for Joint Services and the Caribbean.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The arrangement between the GDF and the University is not strange to Militaries and Academic communities since we have been marrying the two worldwide.&nbsp;“I am heartened to see that Guyana is following. I envision that in the future this collaboration will be further expanded.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, UG’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith noted that the University can play a role in preparing members of the disciplined forces prior to their retirement.&nbsp;He believes there are great opportunities for gainful employment and utilization of capabilities and skills of military men and women.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>These men and women should be better positioned to take their skills and assets from the armed forces and leverage some additional skills so life after retirement is beneficial, not only for economic benefit but for gainful employment and utilization of their skills.&nbsp;“Within a year of transitioning and moving to retirement [the University] can help them to be better positioned for gainful economic employment,” he added.&nbsp;The University’s Vice Chancellor said that a report has been handed over to the government for action to be taken.&nbsp;The first batch of approximately 40 army officers will begin training next month.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2017/10/06/ug-inks-new-agreement-to-further-academic-programmes-with-gdf/\">https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2017/10/06/ug-inks-new-agreement-to-further-academic-programmes-with-gdf/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 419, 428, 'und', 0, '<p>The Guyana Defence Force and the University of Guyana today signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for educational collaboration. The signing took place at a ceremony held in the television room of Base Camp Ayanganna.&nbsp;Chief of Staff Brigadier Patrick West explained that the MOU which is in keeping with international norms will result in Officer Cadets of the Standard Officers’ Course Number 50 and beyond receiving Associate Degrees in the field of Agriculture.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“I am particularly pleased today to sign this MOU for academic collaboration which will enhance the academic profile of our Standard Officers’ course number 50 future standard officers’ courses of the GDF at the same time it will develop the Agriculture Corp as a Research Centre with the University of Guyana”, West said.&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to the Brigadier, “The concept basically sees the implementation of a national security strategy that employs all instruments of national power in a more integrated way to meet the challenges faced by Guyana at this time. This would obviously require a higher degree of inter-agency cooperation to combine defence with diplomacy economic development with law enforcement and civil authority with the Defence Force.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile, Vice Chancellor of the University of Guyana Professor Ivelaw Griffith says the signing of the MOU is a good expression of what the leadership of the Guyana Defence Force thinks of its ranks.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“We have a critical role not only in enabling our nations individual mandates for us to educate and defend but in the context of those mandates, there are very many elements some of which mean educational collaboration is necessary not simply desired,” Vice Chancellor Griffith told representatives of UG and GDF at the ceremony.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Professor Griffith also encouraged future collaboration with the GDF, especially in the preparation of ranks of its Officer Corp for continued service after retiring their military career.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Guyana Defence Force’s Agriculture Corp was established almost fifty years ago while the Colonel Ulric Pilgrim Officer Cadet School was established in 1981 and continues to be one of the Regions functioning military training schools.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://gina.gov.gy/ug-gdf-ink-mou-for-agriculture-associate-degree/\">http://gina.gov.gy/ug-gdf-ink-mou-for-agriculture-associate-degree/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 420, 429, 'und', 0, '<p>The 2017 season of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)/Noblehouse Seafoods,&nbsp;2nd Division 2-day tournament continued last weekend at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) with a satisfying encounter between University of Guyana (UG) and Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC).&nbsp;UG salvaged 1st innings points in the match that was drawn. On the opening day, MSC won the toss and forced UG to bat. In response, the students amassed a total of 128 runs all out from 34.3 overs. None of their batters reached 30 runs with the main contributors being Devon George 26, Dennis Heywood 21, Keron Sewnarine 21 and Melroy Stephenson 19.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Bowling for Malteenoes, Carlyle Collins 4-32 and Marcus Watkins 3-30 were the architects of UG’s short innings. Ug’s Ray Newton 3-24, Dennis Heywood 3-26 and Linden Austin 2-26, ensured that Malteenoes fell short by 26 runs at 102 all out in 38.4 overs in their first innings reply. Shaquille Moseley stood up with 31runs along with Carlos LaRose (31) and Teun Hicks added 18 runs. During the second day’s play, in a feign attempt to get a result in the match, UG reached 85/5 after 29 overs and declared. Their top scorers were Devon George (21), Dennis Heywood (16*) and Melroy Stephenson (14).</p>\r\n\r\n<p>GDF’s Marcus Watkins completed a five-wicket haul after grabbing 2-32 during UG’s second innings, while Shaquille Moseley stole two wickets with figures of 2-24. MSC were then set an improbable 112 from 7 overs for victory. They eventually reached 64-2 after the overs expired with Watkins smashing an unbeaten 43* to follow up his match five-for while Carlos LaRose compiled 17runs. UG gained 1st innings points in the drawn match.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2017/10/11/noblehouse-seafoods-2nd-div-2-day-university-of-guyana-and-malteenoes-play-to-a-draw/\">https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2017/10/11/noblehouse-seafoods-2nd-div-2-day-university-of-guyana-and-malteenoes-play-to-a-draw/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 421, 430, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana (UG) and the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC), yesterday recorded wins in the latest round of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) Noble House Seafoods, second-division 40 – overs competition.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG completed a comprehensive seven-wicket win over the Guyana Defence Force (GCF) at Camp Ayanganna. After winning the toss, GDF decided to bat and were dismissed for a paltry 155 in 39.1 overs with off-spinner Dwayne Dodson picking up 4 -13.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The academics then cantered to 160 – 3 in 25 overs with Mahendra Persaud stroking an unbeaten 55 while Omesh Danram managed 49 to complete the victory.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile, GCC brushed aside the Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) at GCC on the back of a strong all-round performance from Joshua Wade.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>GCC, after winning the toss, invited MSC to take the first strike in 25 overs reduced game which saw MSC being bundled out for 93 in the 24th over.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Carlos LaRose top scored with a 31 from 33 deliveries which included two maximums and a boundary while Jeremiah Scott managed 21 as Wade pickup 3 -2 from five overs.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>GCC in reply cantered to 94 – 2 with Wade returning to smash 42 form 22 deliveries to hand his side an emphatic eight-wicket victory.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/sports/10/15/ug-gcc-record-wins/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/sports/10/15/ug-gcc-record-wins/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 422, 431, 'und', 0, '<p>Local broadcasters were charged to more responsible and cognizant of the effect their words have on listeners when on-air.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Minister of Public Telecommunications, Catherine Hughes delivered the charge Tuesday last, at the University of Guyana, Centre of Communications’ panel discussion on ‘Careers in Broadcasting’.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“You have such a huge responsibility and it’s really is not about you. When you get in front of that microphone, you must realise that you could be speaking to someone who is about to commit suicide, who doesn’t have the joy of vision, who is blind. You could be speaking to so many different people and therefore there is a responsibility that must come with every single word you say” Minister Hughes emphasised.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>It was noted, there is more work to be done in the broadcasting industry, which is rapidly progressing technologically. Internet access has proven to be advantageous for broadcasters today as research tools are now at their fingertips.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Minister Hughes stressed the need for objectivity whether broadcasters are employed in the private or state media. She reiterated the job requires presentation of information in a fair and objective manner.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Public Telecommunications Minister encouraged persons interested in joining the industry, to have a passion for the craft and be prepared to raise the bar.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>A number of veteran broadcasters including Russel Lancaster, Merrano Issacs, and Basil Bradshaw shared their experiences, gave tips on honing broadcasting skills and responded to questions from the audience.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The event was part of the University’s &nbsp;Communication Studies Centre’s effort to sensitise students to the various opportunities in the field of broadcasting.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://gina.gov.gy/broadcasters-encouraged-to-be-responsible/\">http://gina.gov.gy/broadcasters-encouraged-to-be-responsible/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 423, 432, 'und', 0, '<p><em>Dear Editor,</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p>A research project, currently being executed by Ms Nadia Hunte, a member of the Sacred Heart Church and Masters student in Forest Biology, University of Guyana, has captured the attention of the Church’s environmental group. This group, referred to as the Laudato Si Sacred Heart Group, was formed to give effect to the call issued in 2015 by Pope Francis for each and every person on the planet to play his or her part in saving the Earth from environmental degradation. The Pope’s call is well documented in his Encyclical entitled: Laudato Si: On Care for our Common Home. The Group has agreed to lend support to the project by garnering youth volunteers from within the Sacred Heart Church to provide much-needed assistance to Ms Hunte in the areas of site visits, data collection and field surveys.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The project is designed to raise awareness of the value of maintaining a balance between infrastructural development and biodiversity, and will place emphasis on the need for reforestation, and the significant contribution to be gained from the preservation, maintenance and planting of trees.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The researcher seeks to address the ‘Spatial patterns of urban tree cover and diversity in Georgetown, Guyana’ and therefore needs to collect the following data:-</p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>diameter (dbh) size and crown radii measurements of trees,</li>\r\n	<li>quantity of water available to trees,</li>\r\n	<li>ground cover variables.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p>She also needs to carry out a socioeconomic survey that ascertains residents’ preference of tree types.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The project is expected to assist policy-makers in their selection of tree types and areas for current tree planting programmes; creating awareness of the importance of trees to community members; promoting biodiversity; retaining the unique cultural heritage of Georgetown; and improving human health through the ecosystem services provided by trees.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Members of the public are humbly requested to give their cooperation and consent to this project by providing information and/or access to their premises to collect the necessary biological data. The information collected will be handled with strict confidence and in a professional manner, and the findings will eventually be published in the local newspaper.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The collaborators wish to express thanks to the general public in anticipation of its support for the project, and consequently for the development of a Green Economy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><em>Yours faithfully,&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em>Nadia Hunte, Research Student&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em>MSc Forest Biology Coordinator&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em>Mrs Ranjana Williams</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em>Laudato Si Sacred Heart Group</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em>Dr Gyanpriya Maraj</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em>Co-ordinator MSc Forest Biology Programme</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<p><em>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/opinion/letters/10/17/church-and-ug-collaborating-on-tree-project-public-asked-for-their-cooperation/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/opinion/letters/10/17/church-and-ug-collaborating-on-tree-project-public-asked-for-their-cooperation/</a></u></em></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 424, 433, 'und', 0, '<p>Seven Students from the Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Guyana (UG) were selected to participate in the Florida International University (FIU) McNair Scholars Research Conference 2017, from Wednesday, October 19 to October 20, 2017. The conference is being held at the FIU’s Modesto A. Maidique Campus, the participants from a number of institutions will share their research and explore graduate studies possibilities.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The contingent consists of six undergraduates and one faculty member. Joenitta Arthur-Mc Kenzie of the Department of Biology will speak on her research assessing the prevalence of intestinal parasitic helminths in children of Silvercity, Linden, Guyana. Puja Jaichand of the same Department well present her work on the consumption patterns and the economic impact of wild-meat on the Essequibo Coast. From the Department of Chemistry, Lisa Dublin will present on the development of highly mesoporous activated carbon from coconut shells for water treatment, while Rajiv Indrajeet will present on the characterization of the physicochemical properties of various cassareep available on the local market for the purpose of preparing a grading standard for local cassareep. From the Department of Computer Sciences, Alicia Layne will be presenting on an integrated health information systems for improved diabetic outcomes in Guyana and Owen Grant will speak on his work focused on distributed object computing – complexity reduction and interoperability. The students will be accompanied by Ms Diana Seecharran. Assistant Dean of the Faculty.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Faculty sees this as an opportunity to showcase the valuable scientific work its undergraduates conduct annually. More importantly we see this as an opportunity for our students to gain exposure, build international networks and explore their graduate study options in the US. Participation in this conference is now used to motivate students to an even higher level of performance in undergraduate research.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Faculty of Natural Sciences is grateful for the opportunity to participate in this conference once again and for the support of the University of Guyana, Florida International University and other donors for their generous contributions to the venture.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>This is the second time that the UG will be participating in this annual event. In 2015 the Faculty sent a team of five to the conference. Feedback from the students and staff as well as the conference organisers was extremely positive. &nbsp;The students selected are among the best of the student researchers in each of the three departments in the Faculty with a research component in their Bachelor of Science programme. The selected students were then required to submit an abstract of their research for oral presentation or poster display to be evaluated by the conference committee. All submissions from the University of Guyana were accepted.</p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\">###</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>About the McNAIR Conference.</strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p>The McNair Scholars Research Conference is an annual activity under the FIU’s ‘Ronald E. McNair Post Baccalaureate Achievement Program’ funded by the US Congress. The programme was named after Ronald E. McNair, an American physicist and astronaut who was killed when the space ship ‘<em>Challenger</em>’ disintegrated soon after take-off in January 1986. Ronald McNair is known for challenging segregation laws in South Carolina at age 9 so as to access library books. By the time of his death at age 35, he had earned a PhD from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), had been awarded three honorary doctorates and held the distinction of being the second African American and first Bahá\'í to travel in space.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>UG IN BRIEF </strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p>With a current enrollment of some 8,000 students, The University of Guyana (UG) has graduated more than 20,000 students who have gone on to successful careers locally, regionally and internationally. The University is also a major contributor to the national economy and to business and industry. Established in 1963 on a part-time basis with shared space at Queens College, UG moved to its own campus at Turkeyen in 1970 and expanded in 2000 with the addition of the Tain Campus. It now offers more than 60 Under-graduate and Post-graduate Programmes including the Natural Sciences, Engineering, Environmental Studies, Forestry, Urban Planning and Management, Tourism Studies, Education, Creative Arts, Economics, Law, Medicine, Optometry and Nursing. Several online programmes are available and The UG also offers extra-mural classes at four locations through its Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE). The UG also offers the opportunity for student engagement in debating, sports, and cultural, religious and professional activities.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Public Relations Division<br />\r\nOctober 19, 2017</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('carousel_entry', 0, 425, 434, 'und', 0, '<p>Institute of Gender Studies</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 426, 435, 'und', 0, '<p>University of Guyana defeated Everest Cricket Club by four wickets when action in the Georgetown Cricket Association New Building Society Ltd second division 40-over tournament continued on Saturday.<br />\r\nBatting first, Everest CC scored 162 all out in 36 overs at Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary. Saheed Mohamed scored 40, while Ronaldo Renee made 33 and Kevin Paul 31. Linden Austin snared 3-24 and Dwayne Dodson 3-45.<br />\r\nUG responded with 164-6 in 29.5 overs. Keron Sewnarine struck 43 not out, while Dodson got 29 and Melroy Stephenson 26; Rasheed captured 3-34.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2017/10/23/ug-overcome-everest-cc-by-four-wickets/\">https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2017/10/23/ug-overcome-everest-cc-by-four-wickets/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 427, 436, 'und', 0, '<p>The Ministry of Natural Resources, the Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the University of Guyana (UG) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for $100 million philanthropic education grant for the year 2017-2018.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The grant will provide the University of Guyana’s Faculty of Technology with much-needed equipment for its geology labs, curriculum development, training, outreach, and field research, all linked to the emerging oil and gas sector. It also provides specific allocations for all other faculties for student-centered enhancements at the university.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Of the total amount, $55M (55%) will be used for equipment and supplies to the Faculty of Technology’s laboratories all of which will be pursued by the GGMC.&nbsp; $15M (15%) will be used for scholarships and training, while $16m each (16%) will go towards the improvements of classrooms and teaching facilities at the Faculty of Health, Earth and Natural Sciences, Humanities and Social Science and Agriculture at the Turkeyen and Tain Campuses and IDCE.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The sum of $7M (7%) will go towards supporting the School for Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation programme with emphasis on the Natural Resources sector; and 7M (5.7%) to support research, curriculum review and development process, marketing, media and stakeholder consultations.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, who handed over the first tranche of the funds ($45M) to Vice Chancellor Prof. Ivelaw Griffith, at the University of Guyana, Turkeyen Campus, said that the government views the initiative as an investment in education, and youth development.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The minister also noted that timeliness of the projects, adding that it is a significant “it represents a renewed and enhanced relationship with the Ministry, GGMC with the University of Guyana,” even as the oil and gas sector develops.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Further, Minister Trotman stated that research is also needed in the gold and diamond mining sectors as they will not be neglected post-2020 when oil production begins.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Professor Griffith explained that this is one of the university’s most significant grants, which has been negotiated over the last year with the GGMC. Griffith said that it is an investment by the Government in the institution, in an area critical to the nation’s economy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile, GGMC Commissioner, Noel Dennison said that GGMC has a long-standing relationship with the UG. He highlighted the fact that many of the commission’s staff, through scholarships have their education at the institution.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://gina.gov.gy/govtug-sign-mou-to-improve-programmes-allied-to-oil-and-gas-sector/\">http://gina.gov.gy/govtug-sign-mou-to-improve-programmes-allied-to-oil-and-gas-sector/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 428, 437, 'und', 0, '<p>The Ministry of Natural Resources, the Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the University of Guyana (UG) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for a $100 million&nbsp;philanthropic education&nbsp;grant for the year 2017-2018. The grant will provide the University of Guyana’s, Faculty of Technology with much-needed equipment for its geology labs, curriculum development, training, outreach, and field research, all linked to the emerging oil and gas sector. It also provides specific allocations for all other faculties for student-centered enhancements at the university, the government disclosed in a statement.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Of the total amount, $55M will be used for equipment and supplies to the Faculty of Technology’s laboratories, all of which will be pursued by the GGMC. Some $15M will be used for scholarships and training, while $16M will go towards the improvements of classrooms and teaching facilities at the Faculty of Health, Earth and Natural Sciences, Humanities and Social Science and Agriculture at the Turkeyen and Tain Campuses and IDCE.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The sum of $7M will go towards supporting the School for Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation programme with emphasis on the Natural Resources sector, and $7M to support research, curriculum review and development process, marketing, media and stakeholder consultations. Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, who handed over the first tranche of the funds ($45M) to Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ivelaw Griffith, at the University of Guyana, Turkeyen Campus, said that the government views the initiative as an investment in education, and youth development.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The minister also noted the timeliness of the projects, adding that it is significant as “it represents a renewed and enhanced relationship with the Ministry and GGMC with the University of Guyana,” even as the oil and gas sector develops. Further, Minister Trotman stated that research is also needed in the gold and diamond mining sectors; as they will not be neglected in the period, post-2020 when oil production begins.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Professor Griffith explained that this is one of the university’s most significant grants, which has been negotiated over the last year with the GGMC. Griffith said that it is an investment by the Government in the institution, in an area critical to the nation’s economy. Meanwhile, GGMC Commissioner, Newell Dennison said that GGMC has a long-standing relationship with the University. He highlighted the fact, that many of the commission’s staff through scholarships, have received their higher education at the institution.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2017/10/24/100m-grant-aimed-at-improving-ugs-oil-and-gas-programmes/\">https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2017/10/24/100m-grant-aimed-at-improving-ugs-oil-and-gas-programmes/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 429, 438, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana (UG), the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) and the Transport Sports Club (TSC) were all in the winner’s row as action continued in the New Building Society (NBS), Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) second division competition over the weekend.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG got past Everest by four wickets to continue their unbeaten run coasting to their second consecutive win of the competition.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Everest was bundled out for 162 in the 36th over after being inserted with Saheed Mohamed (40) top scoring for the home side. His innings included five fours and a maximum and he received support from Ronaldo Renee (33) and Kevin Paul (31).</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG’s bowling was once again led by off-spinner Dwayne Dodson who grabbed 3-45 from eight overs while Linden Austin supported with 3-24 from six overs.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The students in response, reached their target, (164 – 6) in 29.5 overs with major contributions coming from Keron Sewnarine (43 not out), Dodson (29) and Melroy Stephenson (26). Spinner Javed Rasheed took 3-34.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile, GCC got the better of arch-rivals Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) in a low-scoring affair. DCC, after being sent in, were dismissed for a paltry 121 in 27. 2 overs after being 101 – 2 at one point of their innings. Nkosie Beaton (40) and Alphius Bookie (32) received starts but failed to carry on.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Devon Lord (4-9) and off-spinner Chetram Persaud (3-33) did the damage for GCC who then reached 121 – 4 with Marlon Persaud top scoring with 38 which included four fours and two maximums.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The final match saw TSC upstaging a strong Police unit by four wickets. Police, after winning the toss managed 205 before being dismissed in the 39th over. Andrew Lyght Jr., was in fine form, smashing 61 while national under – 19 opener Alex Algoo made 37. Rafael Singh (3-39), Shaun Massiah (3-45) and Kevin Ross 2-34 led TSC’s bowling effort.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>An unbeaten 49 from Charwayne McPherson then completed the victory as TSC reached 208-6 in 36.2 overs. McPherson got support from Ryan Hemraj (48), and Akeem Redman (24) in the four-wicket win as off-spinner Kelvin Leitch took 2-35.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/sports/10/24/ug-gcc-and-transport-record-wins-over-the-weekend/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/sports/10/24/ug-gcc-and-transport-record-wins-over-the-weekend/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 430, 439, 'und', 0, '<p>The Guyana Geology and Mines Com-mission (GGMC) through the Ministry of Natural Resources has awarded a grant for a total of $100 million to the University of Guyana (UG) for the Faculty of Technology, supporting programmes, research and scholarships.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman, who engineered the grant, and UG Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ivelaw Griffith signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the grant, described as one of the biggest the university has received, at the latter’s office yesterday.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohamed-Martin, the grant was negotiated over an 11-month period as the GGMC had to satisfy certain conditions under its Act in order for the money to be disbursed.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>A cheque for $45 million was handed over by the minister and Mohamed-Martin explained that the remaining $55 million would be used to purchase needed equipment and supplies for the Faculty of Technology.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Another $15 million will go towards training and scholarships at the institution and $16 million will go towards the improvement of classrooms and teaching facilities for allied and supporting programmes in the faculties of Health Sciences, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Agriculture, the Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE) and the Tain Campus in Berbice.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Funding will also be channeled towards supporting the School of Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation programmes, with an emphasis on the natural resources sector and to support research, curriculum review and development processes, marketing, media and stakeholder consultations.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG yesterday said that the GGMC has been a longstanding partner of the faculties of Technology, and Earth and Environmental Sciences. In particular, the Geology Department, to which the commission has granted significant sums in the past, has been the main beneficiary.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The new MoU provides for the design and execution of geology, mining engineering and geological engineering programmes; re-tooling and equipping of the geological laboratory to the tune of $55M; curriculum design and enhancement, and provision of laboratory services to the mining sector; collaboration with other government agencies or private entities on areas of common interest for the purpose of participation in research projects for various areas, particularly in the geology, mining engineering and geological engineering programmes; collaboration on students’ internship attachments with GGMC; sharing technical publications based on assignments of the programmes done by scholars of GMMC; and collaboration on annual renewal of the agreement.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In brief remarks at the signing, GGMC Commissioner Newell Dennison said the commission will continue to support UG as it would like to see a university grounded in research and scholarships. He said while Minister Trotman had promised the support, it was for the commission to figure out how this could be provided for.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Trotman, on the other hand, pointed out that by supporting the university, the ministry is investing in youths, who are the future. He described the new MoU as the basis for a renewed and enhanced relationship between GGMC and the university and added that it is also a testimony of their pride in the institution and the fact that it is in good hands.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The minister also noted that while Guyana is going to soon be an oil producing state, the other pillars of the economy, such as gold and diamond mining, should not be forgotten.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/10/24/ugs-technology-faculty-to-be-among-key-beneficiaries-of-100m-ggmc-grant/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/10/24/ugs-technology-faculty-to-be-among-key-beneficiaries-of-100m-ggmc-grant/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 431, 440, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana’s 51st&nbsp;Convocation will see three different graduation ceremonies held in November.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to the Registrar, Dr. Nigel Gravesande a two-part session is scheduled to be conducted on November 11th; and another at the Tain Campus in Berbice on November18th.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dr. Gravesande noted that the first session will be held in the morning hours at the National Cultural Centre, whilst the second session will be held at the Turkeyen Campus in the afternoon. He also highlighted that this year’s convocation will be notable as compared to previous years, particularly since there will more students graduating.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The registrar explained the decision behind the two-part graduation, “The reason is that we have grown exponentially over the last couple of years, and it has been observed within the last two years there were some parking nightmares.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He added, “Secondly, every year we have noticed that the graduation ceremonies become longer, and this year the academic board and the graduation committee thought ‘let us experiment and let us put in place a ceremony that would capture two events’.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The graduation ceremonies will also include three guest speakers, who are Alumni of the university. The decision to spotlight the alumni was towards an effort to apprise the current student population of the successes of ex-students and their vision for the institution.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Last year’s convocation at Turkeyen Campus, a total of 1,628 students graduated with Degrees, Diplomas and Certificates, while the Tain Campus, Berbice saw a total of 224 students graduating.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://gina.gov.gy/university-of-guyana-2017-convocation-to-be-three-fold/\">http://gina.gov.gy/university-of-guyana-2017-convocation-to-be-three-fold/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 432, 441, 'und', 0, '<p>Dr Leyland Lucas,&nbsp; Visiting Professor at the School of Entrepreneur-ship and Business Innovation (SEBI) at the University of Guyana has said that the pursuit of an effective local content policy for the oil and gas industry must seek, among other things, to create a local content policy that seeks to bring an equity of benefits.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Whenever new opportunities arise, there will always be efforts to accrue benefits by some who are not entitled to do so. Particularly in a country such as ours where control systems are stretched and dishonesty is pervasive, regulations must be enacted against such things as ‘fronting.’ Strong regulatory controls must be established to guard against firms using nefarious means to indicate their eligibility. While no fool-proof system can be designed, there must be enough sizeable penalties to serve as disincentives to those who seek to violate the rules,” the UG Professor writes in an article published in this issue of the Stabroek Business.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Professor Lucas says, meanwhile, that the building of a strong educational system is essential if Guyana is to benefit from an oil and gas-driven local content policy. “For me, a strong educational system is essential to benefitting from any local content policy. The educational system must provide the skills needed by local firms that are either positioned or are seeking to position themselves to benefit from any local content policy,” Professor Lucas says in a paper titled ‘Challenges to Local Content Policy’ prepared for publication in the Stabroek Business.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>And according to Dr. Lucas, Guyana may, as yet, still not have such an education system. “Over the years, we have seen tertiary institutions receiving limited resources. One does not produce engineers, supply chain management experts, logistics personnel, managers and forensic accountants overnight, Lucas says, adding that “doing so requires years of investment in academic offerings.” The university academic says in his article that such investments “require the recruitment of highly qualified and committed faculty, capable and innovative academic administrators, provision of equipment on which state-of-the-art training can occur, construction of modern training facilities and a shift in the approach to learning,” which shift, her said, should emphasize both risk-taking and innovativeness “as against the current focus on rote learning and regurgitative practices.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>And Lucas says in his article that the requirement that a specific percentage of inputs be produced by local manufacturers represents one of the simplest ways in which local firms can benefit through backward linkages. However, he contends that in order to exploit these opportunities there is need for a vibrant manufacturing base, one that can deliver inputs in a timely manner. “To do so the manufacturing base must exist and delivery systems must be reliable. These are inseparable as products that cannot be delivered are valueless. Hence there must be some commitment, (locally) to building a manufacturing base supported by a reliable logistics system to ensure timely delivery.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The strengths of a robust local content policy, however, do not gainsay the threatened downside of what he describes as a “Johnny come lately” effect on material supplies. He explained that firms capable of supplying items to the oil and gas sector, upon discovering that the prices being offered “are significantly higher than what is paid elsewhere may withdraw from the traditional market thereby creating an artificial shortage. “With that shortage comes rising prices and possible health consequences for the remaining populace. Thus, as part of local content policy one must attempt to ascertain the possible effects of supply diversion.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Lucas says that similar instances of artificial shortages can also emerge for human capital in already undersupplied areas. He contends that “if nurses, doctors and other critical human resources determine that through local content policy they can benefit from increased earnings, then they will opt to pursue this option. By doing so it again creates artificial shortages in other already stretched areas.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The UG Business Professor says, however, that amid concerns about artificial shortages, one possible unintended but highly beneficial consequence of any local content policy “could be a significant shift of population away from the coastline towards regions close to the oil and gas sector. He said that while it is possible that a significant number of supplies which can yield returns from local content policy are likely to come from the coastline and traditional regions of production, “incentives could be provided to encourage firms to relocate to areas currently underpopulated,” Lucas added.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/business/10/27/local-content-policy-must-embrace-strong-regulatory-practices-to-protect-against-fronting-ug-business-professor/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/business/10/27/local-content-policy-must-embrace-strong-regulatory-practices-to-protect-against-fronting-ug-business-professor/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html');
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('news', 0, 433, 442, 'und', 0, '<p>University of Guyana (UG) Vice Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith said lecturers would first have to submit all outstanding grades as part of a new performance-driven criteria before they could receive salary increases for 2017, but President of the Workers Union (UGWU), Bruce Haynes said his union would have none of it.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“That is performance criteria but it cannot be tied to wages and salaries. Whatever it is that is agreed, those persons will be paid. If we sign those documents and then we are told that he has isolated those persons, he is going to be in breach of the agreement.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>That is going to be a major chicanery and we are going to put him to task for that because we don’t deal with dishonest people,” Haynes told Demerara Waves Online News.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Griffith said at a meeting held Wednesday with the General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), Lincoln Lewis in the presence of representatives of the Workers Union (UGWU) and Senior Staff Association (UGSSA), he insisted that performance criteria must be a prerequisite for the granting of salary increases.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Griffith said that a clause would be extracted from the Memorandum of Agreement between the UG administration and the unions and put in a separately in a letter of agreement. The major focus of performance for academics, he said, would be the submission of grades. “I am insisting that people who have outstanding grades should not get a salary increase….We have a window for everyone to turn in their grades and it is not fair to the students and it is not fair to the lecturers who turn their grades in so one indicator of performance is timely submission of grants,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He hoped that the unions would no longer object to performance criteria being part of the agreement.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Griffith said lecturers would be given one week or two weeks to turn in their grades or no monies would be handed over to the errant lecturers.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>On the thorny demand by the unions for more information on how the UG’s executives would be paid&nbsp; and from where the money would be drawn, Griffith made it clear that such information would not be provided. “That’s not necessary and it’s not necessary because the reason why the unions are asking for that is to see if there is any space for more and the context&nbsp; for affordability is the context of what we have put on the table is what we can afford,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG has set aside GYD$182 million to pay&nbsp;eight percent&nbsp; to non-academic staff and six percent to academic staff retroactive to January 1, 2017.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Vice Chancellor declared that “it would be irresponsible of me to say let’s talk salary increases and not talk performance when this university has lots of performance issues.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://demerarawaves.com/2017/10/27/submit-outstanding-grades-or-no-salary-increase-says-ug-vice-chancellor-union-boss-says-that-will-be-dishonesty/\">https://demerarawaves.com/2017/10/27/submit-outstanding-grades-or-no-salary-increase-says-ug-vice-chancellor-union-boss-says-that-will-be-dishonesty/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 434, 443, 'und', 0, '<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>The collaboration between the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and the Centre for Communication Studies (CCS) of The University of Guyana brings to you this Volume 2: No. 6 edition of Renaissance, a monthly newsletter. Renaissance is the Vice-Chancellor’s medium of sharing with you our University’s developments.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In the month of September the University was involved in many activities. Through the Office of PACE (Philanthrophy, Alumni and Civic Engagement) we hosted another successful and well attended Turkeyen and Tain Talks which focused on Constitutional Reform in Guyana. The Office of PIE (Planning and International Engagement) hosted the Vice-Chancellor’s Renaissance Lecture III, with featured speaker Sir George Alleyne, Director Emeritus, Pan American Health Organization.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this edition take pleasure in viewing pictures from a number of Town Hall meetings, both at Turkeyen and Tain Campuses, and appreciation dinners for staff and Sir George Alleyne. Our University’s alumni and friends in New York recently held their Inaugural Renaissance Gala. We hope you enjoy these and other scenes from the Guyana Cultural Association’s Folk Festival, Family Fun Day and Kwe Kwe Night.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Additionally, the Minister of Public Telecommunications, Honourable Catherine Hughes, has been a faithful friend to UG. Through Minister Hughes’ intervention the University will benefit from the promise of broadcast licenses and the donation of 278 chairs. The Centre for Communication Studies is particularly ecstatic about the promise of broadcast licenses for both radio and television and would like to thank Minister Hughes for her tremendous support and Professor Paloma Mohamed, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (PACE), for facilitating this venture. Certainly our students and the wider University community will be better positioned to serve the needs of our fellow Guyanese.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>As you read, be inspired to join us as we celebrate UG’s Renaissance!&nbsp;</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 435, 444, 'und', 0, '<p>Huawei, a leading global information and communication technology (ICT) solutions provider, today (Friday) announced the launch of its “Telecom Seeds for the Future” programme for the first time in Guyana.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>This programme will see Huawei partnering with the University of Guyana (UG),&nbsp; to provide three (3) of the UG’s top ICT and Telecommunication studies students a two-week opportunity during which they will receive the latest in technology training at the company’s headquarters in Shenzhen, China.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Designed to help bridge the gap between what is learned in school and what is practiced in the workplace, the “Seeds for the Future” will help develop ICT talent in Guyana, promote greater understanding of the telecommunications sector and encourage participation in the international ICT community.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>It is expected that students participating in the “Seeds for the Future” programme will be given first-hand learning opportunities through interactions with Huawei staff and visits to Huawei laboratories. Apart from studying the theories of the latest in ICT technologies, the students will also receive specific hands-on, practical training in labs.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Students representing UG this year are Mr. Neil Parmeswar Chatterpaul, Mr. Christopher Clarke and Mr. Omatayo Damani Holder.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Vice-Chancellor of UG, Professor Ivelaw Griffith was pleased about the beginning of a new chapter in UG’s collaboration with Huawei. “ICT at the University of Guyana is a major developmental plank which we have to invest in. We are working very closely with our partners like the Ministry of Telecommunications and Huawei to ensure that the imperative for leveraging technology in the development of Guyana is met. I am pleased that our students have been chosen to attend this prestigious programme”.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Today’s announcement reflects Huawei’s commitment to this region and specifically to the development of Guyana’s ICT industry as a viable economic earner,” said Mr. Vincent Liu, Enterprise Account Director of Huawei.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He said that it is hoped that this programme will additionally further strengthen the growing educational and cultural ties between this region and China.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The students will leave for China on&nbsp;October 31.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://www.inewsguyana.com/ugs-top-ict-students-to-benefit-from-training-in-china/\">http://www.inewsguyana.com/ugs-top-ict-students-to-benefit-from-training-in-china/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 436, 445, 'und', 0, '<p>University of Guyana (UG) Vice-Chancellor Professor Ivelaw Griffith is not backing down from his insistence that wage hikes for academic staff be tied to their performance.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“This university has lots of performance issues,” Griffith noted on Friday, while saying it would be irresponsible of him to negotiate salaries and not speak of the performance of staff.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The two workers unions, the University of Guyana Senior Staff Association (UGSSA) and the University of Guyana Workers’ Union (UGWU), have said that performance cannot be part of any agreement for 2017 wages and salaries.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Speaking to reporters after the installation of the new student council, Griffith explained that he is of the view that delinquent lecturers who do not submit their grades in timely manner should not be given a salary increase.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“It is not fair to students and it is not fair to the lecturers who submit grades on time… every lecturer is responsible for doing the right job every time. We want timely submission of grades. If you don’t submit… you should not get a salary increase,” he declared.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Following a meeting last Wednesday with the UGSSA and UGWU and trade unionist Lincoln Lewis, Griffith said that they had extracted the performance criteria clause from the original agreement and placed it as an appendix item in the document.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He explained that the administration has prepared the final document, which he has to review before tabling it once again for the unions.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“There is one principle that I enunciated that will not change: that is the performance which has to be a part of the solution…,” he said, while acknowledging that the unions shared a different view. “The union was saying there should not be anything about performance but I said no. So, I am hoping that they are bendable and they didn’t raise any objections,” said Griffith while noting that he is ready to pay the increases.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Following negotiations with the unions, the UG administration recently announced its final pay hike offer of 8% and 6% to support and academic staff members, respectively, retroactive to January 1. Griffith indicated that the administration “had done enough” and “nothing further would be provided.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Addressing the allegation that the university administration was being secretive about the breakdown of $182 million that was allocated for the increases, Griffith maintained that it is not necessary. “The union wants to see if there is any space for more and in the context of affordability we were working on it is what we have put on the table and that is what we can afford. I will not be offering something we can’t find the money for. The $182 million is what we have and can afford…,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The unions were adamant that the administration had failed to honour all their requests for financial and other information and refused to provide the breakdown of the $182 million.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The unions are saying that according to their calculations, if $182 million was to be paid solely to academic and support staff, considering all the payments to be made for the various allowances, pensions, and NIS, it would allow for a higher offer to be made to staff.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Unions urge reform to insulate council from interference</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile, the two unions on Friday said that the impasse over wages and salaries has dragged on in part due to the absence of the University Council.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In a joint statement, the UGSSA and the UGWU noted that the life of the previous Council ended on July 12 and there has been no explanation to date about why a new Council is not in place, although they said they understand that Minister of Education Nicolette Henry is working on its formation.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The unions noted that a Governance Committee created by the last University Council is currently considering amendments to the existing UG Act and Statutes.&nbsp; “The Unions, in keeping with their longstanding interest in governance, made a submission to that Committee. We feel that one of the key objectives of any reform of the existing governance structure of the University is to ensure that the Council is able to function without political interference,” they said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>As part of a movement towards this, the unions noted that they have always advocated for an appointments process for Council members that allowed the various interest groups to nominate their representatives, and that this was the approach adopted by former Minister of Education Dr Rupert Roopnaraine. “We hope that Minister Henry will also allow the organisations to nominate representatives, and so help to facilitate the Council functioning in as non-partisan a way as possible.&nbsp; We are interested in having a Council that seeks what is the best for the University and undertakes to perform its oversight role with diligence and care,” they added, while expressing the hope that the new Council will be in place for the University’s Annual Business Meeting, which is usually scheduled for Convocation Week in early November.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/10/29/wage-hikes-for-academic-staff-should-be-linked-to-performance/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/10/29/wage-hikes-for-academic-staff-should-be-linked-to-performance/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 437, 446, 'und', 0, '<h4><strong>Oil needs ‘a whole new architecture’ of public sector workers</strong></h4>\r\n\r\n<p>Public sector reform is in a comatose state despite years of work and an investment of millions of US dollars, Professor Michael E. Scott, who also serves as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, has said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He indicated that this was troubling at a time when Guyana is about to experience radical transformation with the game-changing oil and gas sector.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Speaking of the oil and gas sector, he said it has the capacity to reconfigure the entire social system –&nbsp; economically, institutionally, politically, legally and environmentally.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“I consider it rather troubling at this critical time that Guyana’s socio-economic landscape is pursuing radical and economic change, there is no attempt to re-consider, re-focus, re-configure and re-position an effective and efficient public sector to deliver services to meet the requirements of the oncoming reality,” Scott said Wednesday.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He was at the time delivering the first 2017 Professorial Lecture of the University. Professor Scott deals with Academic Engagement at the University.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He said there has been an investment of over US$300 million over the years – funded by the World Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank, the British government and others – towards public sector reform – but he said that process seems to have been stagnated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Despite years of reforms and initiatives, it is clear public sector reform is comatose. This presents significant challenges,” he stated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He said the state of reform begs the question of the readiness to facilitate this game-changing sector and all its implications.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to Professor Scott, the public sector serves the interest of Guyanese and is responsible for managing the conditions for investment. In fact, he said in the public sector’s bosom is the policy decisions, the laws, the concessions, and the rules pertaining to the initiation of the oil and gas sector.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Scott said that at this critical and historic juncture, the public sector needs to give assurance in a meaningful way of its readiness to facilitate and manage the new and significant game-changing sector.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“A whole new architecture of personnel is needed,” he declared.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He added: “The public sector must be ready to set, pursue and adjust goals, re-configure its services and upgrade its service delivery to meet the new reality in the economic sector.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Professor Scott summarised the public sector to mean state and government activities of not only government ministries and departments, but also semi-autonomous government agencies, statutory government oversight bodies, State trading and investment bodies, State enterprises and in the Disciplined Forces.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Over the years, he said no change has been obvious in the public sector other than those that are structural. And so, he questioned how appropriate the Guyanese public sector and its business practices is to usher in and facilitate the veritable game-changing sector that oil and gas is.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He reasoned that the offshore business of oil and gas will resonate onshore and so public sector rules, regulations, laws, and policies “must be ready.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The public sector architecture must be capable and efficient to service the game changer in what is increasingly a glocalised policy environment, where the local and global can hardly be differentiated.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He pointed to the fact that the sector would be completely new to Guyana as oil and gas is an extractive sector of a different type.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“It is at an offshore location and for Guyanese, it is called Black gold. It is drilled and pumped, it is not mined, as we are accustomed to with our pork-knockers and miners.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“There are large players capable of accelerating economic upturn, capable of generating s we know the Dutch disease, capable of spawning a black&nbsp; gold parallel economy, as we’ve seen in other parts of the world, capable of undermining public processes and structures, if the public sector and its service business are not strengthened,” he stated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The University of Guyana’s Professorial Lectures provide newly appointed professors with the opportunity to inform colleagues, the campus community and the general public of their work to date, including current research and future plans. The inaugural Professorial Lecture was held in 2015.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://newsroom.gy/2017/10/27/oil-needs-a-whole-new-architecture-of-public-sector-workers/\">https://newsroom.gy/2017/10/27/oil-needs-a-whole-new-architecture-of-public-sector-workers/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 438, 447, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana (UG) on Wednesday held a ceremonial turning of the sod for the proposed Student Society Complex Building at its Turkeyen Campus.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to a Department of Public Information (DPI) report, the building is currently being constructed by M &amp; P Investments on the southern section of the Turkeyen Campus. It is expected to be completed in February, 2018.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG Vice-Chancellor Ivelaw Griffith explained that it was through the persistence of the past students’ leadership that the $60.6 million, 7,650 square ft, two-storey building would become possible. He was optimistic that the student body will make full use of the facility upon it completion, the report stated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“I am hoping that two things happen; that the students, who are going to be beneficiaries of the hard work and investment, use this facility appropriately; [and] my second request is the incoming president and leadership find ways to reestablish the vibrancy of student life,” the report quoted him as saying.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to the release, the incoming president of the University of Guyana Student Society (UGSS), Norwell Hinds, also commended the past student leadership’s efforts and the administrative body for the initiative.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“This student complex stands historically and symbolically at a particular juncture of transformation and transition for the university and the student society. We are particularly pleased to build upon the legacy of past presidents of the UGSS and to congratulate the administration for its efforts in this particular transformation,” the report quoted Hinds as saying.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Outgoing president Ron Glasgow highlighted that in previous years, the student population was deprived of certain benefits, since the campus lacked a student complex. He applauded the administrative committee’s support for the project.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The sod-turning ceremony saw the attendance of past UGSS presidents, who shared their views on the construction of the complex, according to the report.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“It’s a real privilege to see this project unfold…a lot of energy has been expended in the past pushing for student improved facilities and it’s a real privilege to see it come to fruition and we congratulate students and the university’s administration,” past president Sherod Duncan was quoted as saying.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/10/29/ug-turns-sod-for-student-society-building/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/10/29/ug-turns-sod-for-student-society-building/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 439, 448, 'und', 0, '<p>The new Executive Body of the University of Guyana Students’ Society (UGSS) was on Friday installed and Vice Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith, charged the body to keep their constituents informed of new developments.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Keep in communication with your constituents that you represent. They would not all be able to be in one place at one time… Keep them informed and enable them with the information to separate fiction from facts,” Griffith urged, during his address to the executive body.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Newly elected president Norwell Hinds and his executive council were administered their Oath of Office by Professor Griffith.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>On the new Executive Council are Clenell Petty and Akeem Primo from the faculty of Agriculture and Forestry; Patrick Benjamin-Huntley, Nkafi Hodge and Michael Morrison for the faculty of Earth &amp; Environmental Sciences; Adessa Burke, Mark Hooper &amp; Fabio John from the faculty of Education and Humanities; Marvin Scott and Marvin Wills from the faculty of Health Sciences; Joshua James and Devta Ramroop from the faculty of Natural Sciences; Akeem Pantlitz of the faculty of Technology and Abigale John and Mikhail Mc Kenzie from the School of Business and Entrepreneurship.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>During his address, Griffith told the council that while they are in a leadership position they must stay focussed on their studies and keep “their eyes on the prize” alluding to graduating from the tertiary institution. He also urged the students to find the balance between their academic and social lives, noting that serving in a leadership position forces “you to make tough decisions.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Registrar of the university Nigel Gravesande in his remarks challenged the new council to help develop coherent values and ethical standards, forge educational partnerships with other institutions to advance student’s learning and to build supportive and inclusive communities across the two campuses and four Institute of Distance and Continuing Education Centres.&nbsp; He further challenged the executive to use the resources at the university to effectively achieve institutional missions and goals, engage students in active learning and work to improve student performance.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile, Hinds in his inaugural speech said that during the term, his team would be focused on representing all students and using their platform to advocate for student leadership and advocacy, help students in need and bring immediate relief to for students.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In addition, he said that they would work to mobilize resources for students and ensure that the UGSS is effectively managed with good governance.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“We must be able to commit our talent and resources not only for advocacy but immediate relief for students,” Hinds said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the end of his presidential term he said he would like to see the “successful completion and opening of the student complex with it being fully furnished.” He also stated that the council is proposing to host two major events; Inter-campus Varsity Games which would bring together all tertiary Institutes, and a major conference called ‘Solve Guyana’ in partnership with the administration.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He added that these goals would not distract the council from working for their constituents as representing them is a priority.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He also called on businesses to support the student council as he believes they would be able to benefit from additional revenue.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Hinds and the new executive student body council were elected on the 27th of September.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/10/30/new-ugss-executive-body-installed/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/10/30/new-ugss-executive-body-installed/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 440, 449, 'und', 0, '<p>A Food and Drug Laboratory Complex is slated to be established at the University of Guyana’s (UG) Turkeyen Campus following a ground-breaking ceremony.&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The new complex will lessen Guyana’s dependence on external laboratories to conduct analysis which has restricted access to some international markets. It will also allow for improved monitoring, regulation and compliance with international standards required to penetrate these markets.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Minister of Public Health Volda Lawrence, this morning, explained with new export requirements for European markets, particularly for seafood products and the implementation of the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), the US is ensuring the safety of its food supply. This is being done by shifting the focus from responding to contamination to preventing it. Therefore, products which do not comply with the law, will be rejected.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The International Arena is rapidly changing and Guyana does not want to remain obsolete. We must be competitive, we must be robust and be able to respond to challenges such as those soon to be presented”, Minister Lawrence explained.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Discussions between the Government Analyst and Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) and Faculty of Natural Sciences and Health Sciences, UG have been on-going since 2014, and have proven fruitful, Director of the GA-FDD”, Marlon Cole said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The GA-FDD is the unit that facilities the analysis, licensing and certification of locally produced export commodities such as rice, sugar, rum, seafood, processed foods and pharmaceuticals. &nbsp;It is also responsible for ensuring the distribution, marketing and production of commodities (local and imported) meet the highest quality and safety standards.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“It is imperative that our international trade is not jeopardized”, Minister Lawrence emphasised. She noted that today’s event was a ‘timely and necessary’ one, because the present facility, which is housed in the IAST building, “falls short of international standards.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Approximately $117M was allocated in the 2017 National Budget for the consultation, and construction of the lab. Cole said there is an ongoing conformity assessment and the long-awaited facility’s construction, will begin early next year.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The GA-FDD has been preparing the local agro-processing industry to meet the FSMA standards, through requirement training workshops for local manufactures and producers. &nbsp;This will allow the deaprtment to expand and move forward in the exportation industry.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile Professor Ivelaw Griffith, Vice Chancellor and UG Principal observed that in building relations such as these, his vision of a research park is well underway.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"/sites/default/files/images/volda.jpg\" style=\"width: 100%;\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted by:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://gina.gov.gy/guyana-to-be-on-par-with-international-food-safety-standards/\">http://gina.gov.gy/guyana-to-be-on-par-with-international-food-safety-standards/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'full_html'),
('news', 0, 441, 450, 'und', 0, '<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>Several innovations are on the cards for the 2017 Convocation ceremonies of the University of Guyana, where some 2,000 students are expected to graduate.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The 51st Convocation at the Turkeyen Campus will be held on November 11. There the University will celebrate the accomplishments of about 1,800 students. For the first time in the history of the university, the certificates, diplomas and degrees will be awarded at two ceremonies. The one for the Faculties of Agriculture and Forestry, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Technology, will be held at the National Cultural Center (NCC) at 10:00 h, while that for the Faculties of Education and Humanities, Health Sciences, and Social Sciences will be held on campus, beginning at 16:30 h.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In commenting on this significant change, Vice-Chancellor Professor Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith, who proposed the change said, “Our graduating classes have grown tremendously over the years, and having one ceremony has meant having extremely long ceremonies, with some graduates and guests leaving before the ceremonies conclude.” He added, “Creating two ceremonies allows us to maintain the tradition of having every graduand cross the stage and shake the hand of the Chancellor, and maintain the solemnity of the occasion, while reducing the length of the ceremony.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Additionally, unlike previous years, all students graduating with diplomas will be invited to don academic robes, along with those graduating with Bachelors and Masters degrees. Another new feature at this year’s Convocations will be the use of ceremonial gonfalons, which are banners, often shield-shaped, that hang from crosspieces on top of poles. These banners are usually carried at the head of the Convocation procession and identify the different Faculties within the university from which students are graduating. According to Vice-Chancellor Professor Griffith, “adoption of this feature, which is found at mature universities across the world, will enhance the elegance and pomp of the ceremonies.” Moreover, beginning this year and as part of strengthening the University’s engagement with alumni and inspiring graduating and continuing students, the University will spotlight distinguished alumni at the various Convocations. Dr Dhanpaul Narine, Bachelor of Art in History, Class of 1975, will deliver the address at the first ceremony on November 11 at NCC. He is a distinguished educator and journalist based in New York, and is a former lecturer at City University of New York and the London School of Economics from which he secured his doctoral degree. Ambassador Rudolph Michael Ten-Pow, who studied Modern Languages, will give the keynote at the ceremony on the Turkeyen campus. He is the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Guyana to the United Nations.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the Berbice campus Convocation, where more than 200 students will graduate on November 18 on the University Square at Tain, the Convocation Address will be delivered by Ms Patricia Bacchus, Class of 2004, Bachelor of Laws. Ms Bacchus, who hails from the Ancient County, is the Chief Executive Officer and Chairperson of the Board of Caribbean Container Inc. (formerly SAPIL). She also serves as the Chairperson of the Board of GO- Invest.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Since 1968, when the University held its first graduation, it has become a leading provider of tertiary education in the country, graduating every year professionals with the knowledge and skills that are needed by the local, regional and global job markets. UG graduates can be found in senior positions in major public and private sector agencies both locally and around the world.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile, the Institute of Distance and Continuing Education, the extra-mural arm of the university, is scheduled to hold its graduation ceremonies for its four centers as follows: Georgetown Center on November 25; Linden Center on November 26; Anna Regina Center on December 2 and the New Amsterdam Center on December 9, 2017.</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\">###</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<h3><strong>UG IN BRIEF</strong></h3>\r\n\r\n<p>With a current enrollment of some 8,000 students, The University of Guyana (UG) has graduated more than 20,000 students who have gone on to successful careers locally, regionally and internationally. The University is also a major contributor to the national economy and to business and industry. Established in 1963 on a part-time basis with shared space at Queens College, UG moved to its own campus at Turkeyen in 1970 and expanded in 2000 with the addition of the Tain Campus. It now offers more than 60 Under-graduate and Post-graduate Programmes including Engineering, Environmental Studies, Forestry, Urban Planning and Management, Tourism Studies, Education, Creative Arts, Economics, Law, Medicine, Optometry and Nursing. Several online programmes are available and The UG also offers extra-mural classes at four locations through its Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE). The UG also offers the opportunity for student engagement in debating, sports, and cultural, religious and professional activities.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Public Relations Division<br />\r\nOctober 30, 2017&nbsp;</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('document', 0, 442, 451, 'und', 0, '<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<p>One of the most significant single grants to The University of Guyana, negotiated over the last 11 months with the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC). The UG team included Deputy Vice-Chancellor Paloma Mohamed and Dean of the Faculty of Technology Elena Trim.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The GGMC is a long standing partner of The University of Guyana’s Faculty of Technology and more particularly, the Geology department to which the GGMC has granted significant sums in the past; and the Faculty for Earth and Environmental Sciences.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The value of the grant for 2017-2018 was negotiated upwards to one hundred million Guyana dollars along a specific spending and reporting protocol. The grant will provide the Faculty of Technology with much needed equipment for its geology laboratories and with envelopes earmarked for curriculum development, training, outreach and field research.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Download File below</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 443, 452, 'und', 0, '<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>One of the most significant single grants to The University of Guyana, negotiated over the last 11 months with the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC). The UG team included Deputy Vice-Chancellor Paloma Mohamed and Dean of the Faculty of Technology Elena Trim.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The GGMC is a long standing partner of The University of Guyana’s Faculty of Technology and more particularly, the Geology department to which the GGMC has granted significant sums in the past; and the Faculty for Earth and Environmental Sciences.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The value of the grant for 2017-2018 was negotiated upwards to one hundred million Guyana dollars along a specific spending and reporting protocol. The grant will provide the Faculty of Technology with much needed equipment for its geology laboratories and with envelopes earmarked for curriculum development, training, outreach and field research.</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>The MNR-GGMC-UG grant also provides specific allocations for all other faculties’ student centered enhancements at The University of Guyana.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The MoU provides, among other things, for close collaboration in the following key areas:</p>\r\n\r\n<ul style=\"list-style-type:none\">\r\n	<li>\r\n	<p> &nbsp;Design and execution of Geology, Mining Engineering and Geological Engineering programmes;</p>\r\n	</li>\r\n	<li>\r\n	<p> &nbsp;Re-tooling and equipping of the geological laboratory to the tune of G$55 million;</p>\r\n	</li>\r\n	<li>\r\n	<p> &nbsp;Curriculum design and enhancement;</p>\r\n	</li>\r\n	<li>\r\n	<p> &nbsp;provision of laboratory services to the mining sector;</p>\r\n	</li>\r\n	<li>\r\n	<p> &nbsp;Collaboration with other Government agencies or private entities on areas of common</p>\r\n\r\n	<p>interest for the purpose of participation in research projects for various areas particularly in the Geology, Mining Engineering and Geological Engineering programmes;</p>\r\n	</li>\r\n	<li>\r\n	<p> &nbsp;Collaboration on placement of students’ internship attachments with the Commission;</p>\r\n	</li>\r\n	<li>\r\n	<p> &nbsp;Sharing of technical publications based on assignments of the programmes done by</p>\r\n\r\n	<p>scholars of the Commission;</p>\r\n	</li>\r\n	<li>\r\n	<p> &nbsp;Collaboration on annual renewal of the current agreement.</p>\r\n\r\n	<p>Allocation of MNR- GGMC 2017 Grant to University of Guyana:</p>\r\n\r\n	<p>1) 55% (55 million) - Equipment and supplies to the laboratories of the Faculty of Technology requested through The University and Dean of the Faculty;</p>\r\n\r\n	<p>2)15 % (15 million) for Scholarships and Training;</p>\r\n\r\n	<p>3) 16% or (2 million) each for improvements to classroom and teaching facilities allied and education supporting programmes: The Faculties of Health Sciences, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Education and Humanities, Social Sciences, Berbice Campus, IDCE, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry for a total of 16% (16 million);</p>\r\n\r\n	<p>4) 7% (7 million) to Support the School for Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation programme emphasis on the Natural Resources Sector;</p>\r\n\r\n	<p>5) 7% (7 million) to support, research, curriculum review and development processes, marketing, media and stakeholder consultations.</p>\r\n\r\n	<p>Special Thanks</p>\r\n\r\n	<p>Hon. Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman; Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ivelaw Griffith; Ministry of Natural Resources, J. Mackenzie and staff of the PR department MNR; Chairman of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, Stanley Ming and The Board of Directors GGMC, Mr Newell Dennison, Commissioner, Company Secretary Jacques Foster and staff; Deputy Vice Chancellor (PACE) Prof. Paloma Mohamed and staffers- Aficia Esbrand, Christine Chowagrir, Trovana Azziz, Schemel Patrick, Tara Smith and Rhinold Cameron; and staff members of the Vice-Chancellor’s Office.</p>\r\n\r\n	<p>October 23, 2017</p>\r\n	</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('document', 0, 444, 453, 'und', 0, '<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<p><strong>The elections for the PRESIDENT </strong><strong>of the UG Students’ Society </strong><strong>and THREE (3) REPRESENTATIVES FOR EACH FACULTY, to form the EXECUTIVE COUNCIL </strong><strong>of the UG Students’ Society for the Academic Year </strong><strong>2017/2018 were held on Wednesday, September 27, and Saturday, September 30, 2017 at the Turkeyen Campus and Friday, September 29, 2017 at the Berbice Campus.&nbsp;</strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p>View results below</p>\r\n</div>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 445, 454, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana (UG) continues their impressive run in the New Building Society (NBS) Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) 40 – overs second division competition by notching up two wins over the weekend.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG on Saturday, thumped Police by a mammoth 146 runs on the back of a fine century from Omesh Dhanram who slammed 133 after UG were sent in and piled on 350 before being dismissed in the 40th over.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dhanram was supported by the consistent Keron Sewnarine (59) and Suresh Dhanai (56) as the students piled it on.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Bowling for the lawmen, off-spinner Jason Heyliger took 3-50 while leg-spinner Vishal Jaigobin had 3-61.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Police in response got off to a blazing start as National Youth Player Alex Algoo (30) was severe on anything within hitting range, his innings lasted 10 balls and consisted of five (5) maximums.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>His dismal however set the host back and they were eventually dismissed in 28.1 overs for 204. Andrew Lyght Jr., stroked 59 and Mark Gonsalves 43.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Off-spinner Dennis Heywood took 4-33 and he was ably supported by seamer Ray Newton 2-32.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG on Sunday continued their dominant showing by recording a comprehensive 110 runs victory over minnows Diplomats Cricket Club.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The students cantered to 231 for seven in the 25 overs reduced game as Dwayne Dodson missed out on a well-deserved century after being dismissed for 91.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He found support from Linden Austin (67) and Melroy Stephenson (24). Diplomats struggled in their chase and were bundled out for 121 in 24.5 overs as Dennis Heywood took (3-17) and Dodson (3-15) combined to route their counterparts.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG has so far won all four of their matches and are well on their way to securing a berth in the semifinals. Action in the competition continues this week at various grounds around Georgetown.</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 446, 455, 'und', 0, '<p>With a determined goal to actualise local food security, the University of Guyana (UG) has collaborated with the Ministry of Agriculture to examine the possibility of establishing an Institute of Food Security.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The consultation, which opened this morning at the Marriot International Hotel, seeks to raise awareness and assess the status of food security in Guyana and the Caribbean region and assess the role an institute would have locally and regionally.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Minister of Agriculture Noel Holder, delivering the feature address at the forum, signalled his support for the establishment of the aforementioned institute. He said Guyana has generally been regarded as the breadbasket of the Caribbean, being a net exporter of food in CARICOM.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The region is not sleeping, especially Guyana. With an investment of over US $60 million in agriculture over the past decade, Guyana has been addressing all areas of food Security from the reorganisation of the support systems, legislative upgrades, stimulation of production, implementation of new standards such as Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), to the introduction of Good Manufacturing Practices and HACCP in the Agro-processing industry”, Minister Holder explained.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to him, this places the country in a position of great responsibility, with challenges to meet the region’s food needs in the event of another food crisis, while ensuring that Guyanese are afforded ready access to food of sound nutritional quality.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Deputy Vice-Chancellor (VC)University of Guyana Professor Ivelaw Griffith said much consideration needs to be given to the real purpose of the country’s premier tertiary institution, and the role it plays in the agriculture sector.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“As any university that is beholden to serving a nation, thinks about what it does and how it does it. It has to ask the question ‘Are we doing what we need to do to address those clear and present dangers?” He said the clear and present danger in Guyana, in relation to food security, is intimately connected to the matter of food security within and beyond the region.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The UG Vice-Chancellor said even as Guyana moves into the oil and gas sector; an area that is poised to boost the country’s economy, it need not repeat the mistakes of other countries and neglect the agriculture sector.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The pull of the oil and gas leads to a push away from certain industries and I would really like for us not to fall victim of that. To keep our eyes on the agriculture prize, knowing that we also have many preconditions to not only do better for our nation but to better for the world”, he added.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>It was hoped that at the end of the consultation, there could be a status report on food production and stability, accessibility and nutritional quality of available food in Guyana, and a strategy on the status of the food and nutrition security in Guyana and the wider CARICOM region.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://gina.gov.gy/ug-agriculture-ministry-consult-on-food-and-nutrition-security/\">http://gina.gov.gy/ug-agriculture-ministry-consult-on-food-and-nutrition-security/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 447, 456, 'und', 0, '<p>As Guyana continues to place emphasis on food and nutrition security, the Agriculture Ministry and the University of Guyana is seeking to establish a food and nutrition security institute.<br />\r\nAt the consultation exercise, which was recently held at the Marriott Hotel, Agriculture Minister Noel Holder stated that much emphasis is being placed on&nbsp;strengthening food and nutrition security in the Caribbean and Government continues to plug an immense number of resources into strategies aimed at strengthening such areas.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“With an investment of over US$60 million in agriculture over the past decade, Guyana has been addressing all areas of food security from the reorganisation of the support systems, legislative upgrades, stimulation of production, implementation of new standards such as Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), to the introduction of Good Manufacturing Practices and HACCP in the Agro-processing industry,” Minister Holder said. With international statistics depicting the high prevalence of malnutrition, Minister Holder also echoed the call for new strategies and ideas to be developed, adding that revisiting old ideas and the development of new technologies to increase productivity is essential to combat this phenomenon. “New systems to combat post-harvest losses, new ways of thinking to develop Food Safety Systems to not only to protect consumers’ health but to reduce spoilage and increase the shelf life and storage of foodstuff must also be developed.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Holder noted The meeting focused on highlighting pressing food and nutrition insecurity challenges, which include poverty, uneven economic growth, unhealthy diets leading to increasing prevalence of nutrition-related chronic diseases and stability issues possibly related to climate change. Meanwhile, Vice Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor Ivelaw Griffith said agriculture should not be forgotten since areas like oil and gas are mainly being focused on.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“As the nation pursues energy and gas, we must not neglect agriculture. The pull to oil and gas usually results in push away from agriculture. I hope we do not fall victim to this push and pull factor. As a university, we must ask ourselves – are we doing what we need to do to address the clear and present dangers of food and nutrition insecurity? Universities have the responsibility and are obligated to deal with these issues,” Griffith stated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:<u><a href=\"http://guyanatimesgy.com/ug-seeking-to-establish-food-and-nutrition-institute/\">http://guyanatimesgy.com/ug-seeking-to-establish-food-and-nutrition-institute/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html');
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('news', 0, 448, 457, 'und', 0, '<p>Unlike previous years, the University of Guyana will be hosting two Convocation ceremonies this year to reduce the length of the ceremony as some 1,800 students are expected to graduate.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The 51st Convocation at the Turkeyen Campus will be held on November 11, 2017.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In a statement on Monday, the University said for the first time in the history of the university, the certificates, diplomas and degrees will be awarded at two ceremonies. The first ceremony will be for the Faculties of Agriculture and Forestry, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Technology at the National Cultural Center (NCC) at 10:00hrs, while the ceremony for the Faculties of Education and Humanities, Health Sciences, and Social Sciences will be held at the Turkeyen campus, beginning at 16:30hrs.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Some students have expressed concerns with the decision to host two ceremonies instead of one but the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Ivelaw Griffith in Monday’s statement said “our graduating classes have grown tremendously over the years, and having one ceremony has meant having extremely long ceremonies, with some graduates and guests leaving before the ceremonies conclude.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Quoted in the statement, he added, “Creating two ceremonies allows us to maintain the tradition of having every graduand cross the stage and shake the hand of the Chancellor, and maintain the solemnity of the occasion while reducing the length of the ceremony.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Additionally, unlike previous years, all students graduating with diplomas will be invited to don academic robes, along with those graduating with Bachelors and Masters degrees.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Another new feature at this year’s Convocations will be the use of ceremonial gonfalons, which are banners, often shield-shaped, that hang from crosspieces on top of poles. These banners are usually carried at the head of the Convocation procession and identify the different Faculties within the</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dr Dhanpaul Narine, Bachelor of Art in History, Class of 1975, will deliver the address at the first ceremony on November 11 at NCC. He is a distinguished educator and journalist based in New York, and is a former lecturer at City University of New York and the London School of Economics from which he secured his doctoral degree.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ambassador Rudolph Michael Ten-Pow, who studied Modern Languages, will give the keynote at the ceremony on the Turkeyen campus. He is the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Guyana to the United Nations.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the Berbice campus Convocation, where more than 200 students will graduate on November 18 on the University Square at Tain, the Convocation Address will be delivered by Ms Patricia Bacchus, Class of 2004, Bachelor of Laws. Ms Bacchus, who hails from the Ancient County, is the Chief Executive Officer and Chairperson of the Board of Caribbean Container Inc. (formerly SAPIL). She also serves as the Chairperson of the Board of GO-Invest.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile, the Institute of Distance and Continuing Education, the extra-mural arm of the university, is scheduled to hold its graduation ceremonies for its four centers as follows: Georgetown Center on November 25; Linden Center on November 26; Anna Regina Center on December 2 and the New Amsterdam Center on December 9, 2017.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://newsroom.gy/2017/10/30/ug-to-host-two-graduation-ceremonies/\">https://newsroom.gy/2017/10/30/ug-to-host-two-graduation-ceremonies/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('event', 0, 449, 458, 'und', 0, '<p>Professor Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith (Vice-Chancellor &amp; Principal) requests the peasure of your company at The&nbsp;Inaugural Renaissance Conversation on Law and Society,&nbsp;The Life &amp; Jurisprudence of Joseph Oscar Fitzclarence (JOF) Haynes presented by Hon. Justice Courtney A. Abel.</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 450, 459, 'und', 0, '<p>As of January 2018, persons will have the opportunity to attend courses for psychology at the University of Guyana (UG), following the launch of the programme&nbsp;on Monday&nbsp;evening at the institution’s Turkeyen campus.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In a feature address, Minister within Ministry of Public Health, Dr Karen Cummings said that the inauguration of the programme demonstrates the efforts made by the university in assisting government’s agenda to address mental health issues.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https://i2.wp.com/www.inewsguyana.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/DSC_0521-2.jpg?w=1280\" style=\"width:100%\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The government of Guyana through the Ministry of Public Health has embarked on a rigorous programme to address mental illness in Guyana. For the first time in the Ministry of Public Health, a mental health unit has been established, a number of intervention has already been conducted countrywide as we seek to build capacity within our public health system,” the Minister explained.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>She noted that the launch of the programme indicates that the university is fulfilling its mandate of developing the human potential to tackle mental health issues.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The programme seeks to increase the number of mental health providers available to evaluate and treat psychological conditions, reduce the high rate of suicide and also increase awareness, prevention, support, and compassion for those suffering from mental illness. It also provides professional growth and development for those currently in the mental health workforce, under-graduate and graduate-level clinical psychology training.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>It was highlighted that the development and enhancement of competence in the assessment, evaluation, and treatment of psychological problems would not only increase the level of professionalism of the field but reduce the burden of mental illness among the general population.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https://i2.wp.com/www.inewsguyana.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/DSC_0495-2.jpg?w=1280\" style=\"width:100%\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) representative Sylvie Fouet explained that the support offered to the university is simply the planting of seeds for&nbsp;tomorrow&nbsp;to sustain the programme.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>She thanked Caribbean Network of Psychological Associations (CANPA) for their support in the initiative, noting that though there may be difficulties as the university launches its psychology programme, assistance will be provided.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Ivelaw Griffith noted that the programme is testimony of the university’s effort to aim high.&nbsp; He added that the programme is one that the institution had envisaged for over 30 years; which led to several professors undertaking a preparatory psychology course.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The psychology programme will offer a certificate and diploma, and a bachelor’s degree in general psychology slated for September 2018 and a masters in clinical psychology which will be set aside for June 2018.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Those also present during the launch included Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Engagement, Professor Michael E. Scott,&nbsp;Dean of The Faculty of Health Sciences, Dr Emanuel Cummings, President of the Caribbean Network of Psychological Associations (CANPA) Prof Omowale Omuleru Marshall and Deputy Vice Chancellor PACE – Professor Paloma Mohamed.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://www.inewsguyana.com/ug-to-offer-diploma-bachelors-degree-masters-in-psychology/\">http://www.inewsguyana.com/ug-to-offer-diploma-bachelors-degree-masters-in-psychology/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 451, 460, 'und', 0, '<p>With the aim of producing safe, healthy and nutritious foods for consumption at home and abroad, Guyana will be moving to double its agricultural production over next few years, Minister of Agriculture Noel Holder has said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Minister was speaking at a consultation last Friday, organised by the University of Guyana (UG) at the Marriot Hotel which sought a collaboration with the government on the establishment of an Institute of Food and Nutrition Security.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to Minister Holder, Guyana has generally been regarded as the breadbasket of the Caribbean, being a net exporter of food in CARICOM. The portfolio he said has placed the country in a position of great responsibility with challenges to meet the region’s food needs.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He said the government has however taken note of the increased challenges to food and nutrition security, especially those of the impact of climate change and changes in the trade environment.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“We are, therefore, constantly reviewing our efforts to ensure that production of food is conducted in a manner that is safe for both the population and the environment,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In order to guarantee inclusiveness of all, Minister Holder said the government has adopted a multi-sectoral approach to ensure that all stakeholders play a meaningful role in addressing the key pillars of food security: availability, accessibility, utilisation, and stability.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“While we continue to face challenges, we have implemented and sustained various initiatives which support the integration of efforts to address food and nutrition security. These initiatives address all four pillars mentioned,” Minister Holder said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://gina.gov.gy/govt-eyes-doubling-agriculture-production-in-near-future-minister-holder/\">http://gina.gov.gy/govt-eyes-doubling-agriculture-production-in-near-future-minister-holder/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 452, 461, 'und', 0, '<p>Support staff of the University of Guyana (UG) are set to receive a&nbsp;retroactive salary increase, but lecturers will have to wait for their ‘back-pay’ as the unions continue to reject efforts by the administration to include performance as a condition.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The administration’s arbitrary insistence on a performance element that applied to only one group of persons (lecturers) resulted in all staff being denied their retroactive payment. The TUC successfully persuaded the administration to let UB staff receive their increase,” the University of Guyana Workers Union (UGWU) and the University of Guyana Senior Staff Association (UGSSA) said in a statement.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The non-academic staff would be paid an eight percent increase retroactive to January, 2017, in keeping with an agreement that was signed at the Labour Department of the Ministry of Social Protection in the presence of Deputy Chief Labour Officer, Karen Van Sluytman.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The unions said academic staff, including those who have&nbsp;been exemplary in their performance, “would have to continue to be held hostage for a while longer while the administration insists on the inclusion of a clause” that includes performance as a prerequisite for getting the salary increase.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The academic staff are due to be paid a six percent hike in wages and salaries dating back to the beginning of this year.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to the UGWU and UGSSA,&nbsp; professionals with experience in industrial relations have advised them that such a provision “has no place in a wages and salaries agreement”.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG Vice Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith said after the signalled after the signing&nbsp; of the pay-hike agreement that he would continue to insist on performance. ” “I am delighted that we are able to close this chapter and begin paying the increases. This agreement also sets the stage for a new normal at the university, where performance is just as important as payment, and where accountability and affordability are key to enhancing entrepreneurship,” he was quoted as saying in a statement issued by UG.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Griffith has previously told Demerara Waves Online News that lecturers would first have to submit all outstanding grades before receiving their salary increases.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>While the unions said they were not opposed to the timely submission of grades, lecturers should not be penalised because the administration has a responsibility also to ensure that performance is up to mark instead of merely shifting that responsibility to the unions. “It already lies within the administration’s power to deal with any cases of un-submitted grades,” the unions said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Vice Chancellor further stated that wages and salaries were not the only staff-related expenditure that the administration has to cater for. “In terms of affordability, these increases are not our only financial obligations. We still have an average of 4.5 percent merit award to fund, as well as allowances for traveling, entertainment, uniforms, and academic materials. We also have to worry about study leave (salary and housing for three months), sabbatical leave (salary and housing for 12 months), leave passage, and duty allowances for Coordinators, Heads, and Deans”, he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://demerarawaves.com/2017/11/08/ug-unions-stalemate-block-back-pay-for-lecturers-non-academic-staff-to-get-pay-out/\">http://demerarawaves.com/2017/11/08/ug-unions-stalemate-block-back-pay-for-lecturers-non-academic-staff-to-get-pay-out/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 453, 462, 'und', 0, '<p>As of January 2018, persons will have the opportunity to attend courses for Psychology at the University of Guyana (UG), following the launch of the programme on Monday evening at the institution’s Turkeyen campus.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In a feature address, Minister within Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings said that the inauguration of the programme demonstrates the efforts made by the university in assisting government’s agenda to address mental health issues.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The government of Guyana through the Ministry of Public Health has embarked on a rigorous programme to address mental illness in Guyana. For the first time in the Ministry of Public Health, a mental health unit has been established, a number of intervention has already been conducted countrywide as we seek to build capacity within our public health system,” the Minister explained.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>She noted that the launch of the programme indicates that the university is fulfilling its mandate of developing the human potential to tackle mental health issues.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The programme seeks to increase the number of mental health providers available to evaluate and treat psychological conditions, reduce the high rate of suicide and also increase awareness, prevention, support, and compassion for those suffering from mental illness. It also provides professional growth and development for those currently in the mental health workforce, under-graduate and graduate-level clinical psychology training.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>It was highlighted that the development and enhancement of competence in the assessment, evaluation, and treatment of psychological problems would not only increase the level of professionalism of the field but reduce the burden of mental illness among the general population.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) representative Sylvie Fouet explained that the support offered to the university is simply the planting of seeds for tomorrow to sustain the programme.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>She thanked Caribbean Network of Psychological Associations (CANPA) for their support in the initiative, noting that though there may be difficulties as the university launches its psychology programme, assistance will be provided.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Ivelaw Griffith noted that the programme is testimony of the university’s effort to aim high. &nbsp;He added that the programme is one that the institution had envisaged for over 30 years; which led to several professors undertaking a preparatory psychology course.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The psychology programme will offer a certificate and diploma, and a bachelor’s degree in general psychology slated for September 2018 and a masters in clinical psychology which will be set aside for June 2018.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Those also present during the launch included Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Engagement, Professor Michael E. Scott,&nbsp;Dean of The Faculty of Health Sciences, Dr. Emanuel Cummings, President of the Caribbean Network of Psychological Associations (CANPA) Prof. Omowale Omuleru Marshall and Deputy Vice Chancellor PACE – Professor Paloma Mohamed.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://gina.gov.gy/ug-launches-its-psychology-programme-for-the-first-time/\">http://gina.gov.gy/ug-launches-its-psychology-programme-for-the-first-time/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 454, 463, 'und', 0, '<p><strong>By Dr. Ken Danns</strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p>SABOTAGE has been an enduring plague in the body of the Guyanese nation, critically compromising its development. To sabotage is to disrupt, interrupt, obstruct, incapacitate, damage and in other ways cause pernicious harm to an institution, a business or other organisations, a community or even an entire country. People who inflict sabotage on a system are either a part of that system itself or else a part of the environment on which the system depends for its very survival.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Sabotage can be inflicted on an entity by the subordinated and by the dominant; by the powerless and by the powerful. Whatever the source, sabotage has throughout the years become a weapon of choice to hinder Guyana’s progress and development. Sabotage behaviou rs by individuals or groups are often legal actions which confirm to the letter of the law, though not necessarily the spirit of the law. Sabotage is what the sociologist Thorstein Veblen euphemistically referred to as “the conscientious withdrawal of efficiency”.<br />\r\nGuyana is experiencing the conscientious withdrawal of efficiency –sabotage! I have identified five different types of sabotage in order to provide an understanding of the scope and impact of this national plague. These are: industrial sabotage, the sabotage of estrangement, the sabotage of ritual, the sabotage of incompetence and indolence, and political sabotage.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>First, there is Industrial Sabotage where workers in an industry would go on strike,” go slow” and “work-to rule” and so on. The end game is to constrain an employer to increase wages or other benefits; or, to end policies and actions perceived by the workers and their representatives as being inimical to the workers’ interests. The sugar industry in Guyana, for example, has been historically affected by the conscientious withdrawal of efficiency by its workers. Recent allegations of factory workers dumping tonnes of cane juice, so as to restrict the sugar industry production, if true, is a classic case of industrial sabotage. There have been perennially more strikes and industrial actions annually by sugar workers than by workers in any other industry in Guyana.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Industrial Sabotage is also routinely carried out by corporate managers and owners seeking to restrict production in their industry in order to maintain high prices, to control the labour demand and to cut other production costs. Some industries go as far as to dump excess output rather than reduce their prices. Businesses often engage in the conscientious withdrawal of efficiency by collaborating with their competitors to cut production in order, to maintain high prices of their commodities or services to the consumers.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Secondly, there is the Sabotage of Estrangement. Employees in an organization affected for many years by low wages, low morale, and lack of trust in its leadership often become alienated from their jobs and disaffected from management. This invariably results in growing paralysis in the organisation’s overall functioning, its efficiency and its output. Even with the change of leadership, the employees enmeshed in such systemic organisational malaise do not readily change from the engrained culture of estrangement.<br />\r\nI visited the University of Guyana in 2016 as part of its Educational Resource Ambassadors team at the invitation of Vice Chancellor, Ivelaw Griffith who had only a few weeks earlier took up the reins of leadership of the institution. I was struck by the alarming levels at which the conscientious withdrawal of efficiency had reached. This sabotage of</p>\r\n\r\n<p>estrangement was very visible. Tall grass and other vegetation enveloped the campus like a nightmare, although the University employed a full time maintenance crew. Employees, students, cattle and dogs had competed for turf on its main Turkeyen Campus. Books in the much prized Caribbean Research Library were on the floor covered with plastic in vain efforts to keep out rain from leaking roofs. Some lecturers were reportedly not turning in final grades for students, months after final examinations were taken, thus effectively preventing paying students from registering for the next semester courses. Some lecturers were also consistently not showing up to teach the students. Yet, they were retained year after year. Many committed employees and students existed in environments of decaying infrastructure and diminishing morale, seemingly resigned to these as a new normal.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>As someone who had lectured at the University of Guyana for over 25 years, I was deeply hurt at what had become of the institution. Everyone seem to say that it was poor salaries and the absence of resources to get things done. Sadly, the problem is much deeper than that. The “cow in the room” at UG is the sabotage of estrangement. Vice Chancellor Griffith has been doing much to turn things around and restore integrity and functionality to the national university. Yet, pockets of resistance to changing the organisational culture on the Turkeyen Campus remain embedded. An organisational culture in the final analysis is “the way we do things around here”. The organisational culture at UG is still U-G-L-Y and it is the responsibility of everyone at the institution to make it pretty again. As the Bible said, let the scales fall from thine eyes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The third type of the conscientious withdrawal of efficiency is the Sabotage of Ritual. Ritual sabotage occurs in bureaucratic organisations like the public service and public corporations. This occurs when the proliferation of rules, regulations and work processes obstruct rather than enable efficient services and outcomes. Even though employees might be willing to make things happen, having to adhere to the rituals of complicated rules, regulations and work processes make them appear incompetent in the eyes of customers and the organization a waste of time in the minds of the public. Very often customers are told to go and get other documents elsewhere and come back. The run around you experience trying to get routine transactions done at some public offices in Guyana is the Sabotage of Ritual.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Even some private enterprises have been infected by this Sabotage of Ritual. I went to purchase a commodity at a major hardware enterprise on the East Bank of Demerara, a few months ago. While waiting almost one hour to purchase one item that costed about US$10, I counted 10 employees and supervisors who handled the transaction. My ordeal finally ended when an armed security guard at the door examined and delivered my purchase and stamped the receipt. The whole transaction was neither efficient nor customer oriented. The simplest of transactions involve elaborate rituals to fulfil whether it is in a bank or even a liquor store.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The fourth type of conscientious withdrawal of efficiency is the Sabotage of Incompetence and Indolence. Here, workers who are either lazy and or incompetent are hired and retained, mainly in public agencies. They sit around chatting and goofing off while customers are waiting, not knowing if and whether they will ever get served. Customers often have to protest, insist on seeing a supervisor or leave a “small piece” to complete a transaction.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The fifth and final conscientious withdrawal of efficiency I will address is Political Sabotage. Political sabotage is the use of political office or organisations to deliberately and maliciously subvert or derail public policies or programmes aimed at improving the well-being of the public and the nation. This is by far the most egregious form of sabotage since it is impelled by the leadership of national political parties with overarching power to affect the lives of many and thwart the development, governance or progress of the country. Political sabotage can be initiated either by an opposition political party or a governing party. In the never ending contests for control of governmental or state power political parties often resort to malicious actions to undermine the image or progress of opposing parties.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Guyana’s President David Granger’s rejected for a third time a list of six names submitted by the Opposition PPP Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo for an appointment to the post of Chairman of Guyana’s Election Commission. Using the enormous powers of the Office of the President and consistent with the Guyana Constitution, President Granger, who is also leader of the APNU/AFC coalition government, independently appointed a new Chair for the Guyana Elections Commission. This action, the Opposition Leader interpreted as a violation of Guyana’s Constitution and reportedly has taken the matter to court. Further, the PPP leader has recently decided to engage in political sabotage by waging a campaign of non-cooperation against the APNU/AFC Government and also to organise protests against President Granger whenever he travels around the country to meet the people.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Already, in local and regional government districts, PPP representatives have been declaredly engaging in political sabotage by delaying or obstructing development policies and programmes for some communities in order to portray the Government in a negative light. While the PPP was in power, it sabotaged local democratic governance by not holding local government elections for 20 years. It also visibly deprived the city of Georgetown, the Town of Linden, and the country’s educational system of adequate resources. It is puzzling why a leading national political party would maliciously engage in political sabotage. The problem with political sabotage is that it frustrates development initiatives and ultimately undermines the well-being of the Guyanese people. The time is apt for the Guyanese people to recognise what sabotage at all levels is doing to the nation. The time to end such counterproductive actions is now.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/11/06/the-conscientious-withdrawal-of-efficiency-sabotage-in-guyana\">http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/11/06/the-conscientious-withdrawal-of-efficiency-sabotage-in-guyana</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 455, 464, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana (UG) in collaboration with the Caribbean Alliance of National Psychological Associations (CANPA) today presented a Suicide, Youth Violence and Professional Psychology Symposium at the Pegasus Hotel.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The all-day symposium saw presentations from academics and stakeholders of the education and health sectors on Suicide, Violence, and Psychology.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings stated that the symposium is timely and relevant since it comes at a time when Guyana is faced with many social problems.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“This programme will produce highly trained practitioners capable of competently and professionally addressing the variety of mental health issues in order to enhance the lives of those who often times suffer in silence. More importantly, our new professionals will be able to address the stigma and humiliation to which both victims and family members are subjected by society,” Dr. Cummings said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>She reiterated the importance of psychologists in society while noting that she is confident the symposium will lead to the formulation of strategies to advance the study of psychology in Guyana.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Today’s symposium I am certain will provide a valuable opportunity for psychology professionals from different cultural backgrounds and diverse field to explore the impact of psychology as a field of practice on community and individual mental health care,”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>President of CANPA, Professor Omwowale Marshall noted his satisfaction in partnering with the University and explained the aim of his organisation.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“What we have come to do is to show you an array of glimpses of psychology, psychological science, and practice; so that you can see what our profession can offer Guyana,” Professor Marshall expressed.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile, UNICEF representative, Paolo Marchi said the seminar will assist in the protection of children and pointed out that according to UNICEF reports, the Caribbean has one of the highest rates of violence against children in the world</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“According to Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey 2014, almost 70 percent of Guyanese children have been victims of a form of violence. Violence often leaves visible scars, violence always leaves invisible ones,” Marchi underscored.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He added, “Today’s event not only highlights the gravity of the level of violence including self-harm and suicide but also provides an opportunity for us to know what the trends are, what are the emergency issues we must consider, and how these issues can be prevented and treated.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The symposium saw panel discussions on Reducing Selected Risk Factors, Screening to Intervene Early, Effective and Promising Psychological Interventions and<br />\r\nExpressions of Youth Violence and a Professional Response.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://gina.gov.gy/ug-hosts-symposium-to-address-suicide-and-youth-violence/\">http://gina.gov.gy/ug-hosts-symposium-to-address-suicide-and-youth-violence/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 456, 465, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana’s Turkeyen Campus yesterday sent its largest graduating class into the world.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The administration, led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Ivelaw Griffith chose to host two convocation ceremonies—at 10 am at the National Cultural Centre and at 4.30 pm at the National Exhibition Centre at Sophia— to better accommodate the 2,165 graduates. The unprecedented move made the 2017 convocation ceremony memorable, as the memories of those who walked the stage in the evening and their families will include four hours of standing in a cramped humid space at the Sophia ceremony.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Some family members will remember unnerving encounters with university ushers who ran out of patience before the venue ran out of seats. Some may also recall how gratifying it was to watch their loved ones graduate while they peered through the security grill covering the windows.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>One graduate took to Facebook to bemoan her choice to attend the ceremony at all. She noted that her grandparents, who travelled from Canada to see her collect her degree, had to leave when they ended up stuck outside the venue, unable to hear or see.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“What’s the point? You can’t hear, you can’t see. What are you celebrating?” she asked.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The ceremony was held at the auditorium of the Sophia Exhibition Centre after a week of inclement weather convinced the university administration that the Turkeyen Tarmac might not be best suited. Consequently, it was announced on Thursday that the 1,386 students graduating from the faculties of Education and Humanities, Health Sciences, and Social Sciences would be accommodated at Sophia.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The spaced, however, was as another student posted, “woefully inadequate.” As a consequence many left before the charge was delivered by Dr Mahendra Carpen.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/11/12/over-2000-graduate-at-ug-convocation-ceremonies\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/11/12/over-2000-graduate-at-ug-convocation-ceremonies</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 457, 466, 'und', 0, '<p>Dear Editor,</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Last Tuesday evening, I went to the University of Guyana Vice Chancellor’s Conversation (on the Law and Society). It was the first event hosted by the VC to which I lent my presence. There were other events that I wished to attend, but the invitation to those specified a dress code, which I would not give anyone the right to dictate to me about.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>There were as some may say the usual masturbation of thoughts and ideals (self-indulgence), however there was also a healthy dose of realism. This I know because the personality whose life and works were selected to build the theme of the discussion was someone whom many in the audience knew. Hence, we heard phrases akin to He never crowed like a fowl-cock about his virtues though reveled in the moments when recognition came his way. The time spent there certainly was worth it and I can say to the VC if he has any doubts I left that environment more knowledgeable.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>I would not focus on the presentations and presenters of Tuesday evening in a big way but on the concepts, that were promoted. My intention is simply to continue the conversation. As a layman who depends on the services of members of the legal profession, from time to time I know the frustration of having a matter dragged through the court and was pleased to hear of the progress being made in the wider Caribbean as regards eradicating the backlog in the courts. It was fun to hear lawyers admit that many among them were in part responsible for the creation of these backlogs, while making suggestions to reduce them including remedies to the other sources of the backlog phenomenon.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Justice Stephenson of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court alluded to the need for Attorneys to establish Corporate Practices, showing how such coming together can be effective in reducing the said backlogs. In advancing/promoting the said idea, as a consumer of legal services, I see the move from a single practitioner to a Law Firm as healthy for the client not only with regards the rate at which cases can be executed but in bringing security of continuity. Should I hire a Lawyer who operates as a sole practitioner, if for some reason that Lawyer cannot be at court, my matter invariably would be put down or the opposing Lawyer may take advantage of his absence and have the matter tried in his absence. On the other hand, if my Lawyer was a member/associate/partner from a firm, there would most probably be a fully prepared representative, standing in. In actuality today should your lawyer leave the jurisdiction you need to pay another to continue your matter.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The lead participant in the discourse (conversation) certainly impressed. However, the most impressionable note he sounded was not in his erudite presentation on the life and works of Attorney at Law, Chancellor and Professor JOF Haynes but on his own practice as a Judge. This Guyanese working in Belize took time off to learn the Garifuna Language. I must take my hat off to you every time we’ll meet in the future Justice Abel. That act of yours convinced me that you took time off to really understand the situation of those whom you Judge.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Two years ago, I was at the Whim Magistrate’s Court, which was presided over by Magistrate Charlyn Artiga. That day at the court in Whim taught me so much about Guyanese and the languages we speak.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Magistrate Artiga at times tried to speak (in Creolese) so that those under her judgement understood what was happening, at other times the Police Officers present did the translations. I remembered the Magistrate asking a person (I think he was the complainant) to decide if she (the Magistrate) should try his case at Whim or he wished that it be tried at the High Court. The man clearly said High Court after she repeated her question three times. It was not until she announced something to the effect that he should get a Lawyer, and make preparations to defend the matter at the Berbice High court in New Amsterdam, that realisation struck. The obviously disturbed man began a tirade about how much a lawyer would cost and how much time he’ll waste if he has to travel to a New Amsterdam court.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Obviously being a responsible and concerned official, Magistrate Artiga, to her credit and that of some Police Officers present were able to accommodate the man’s true desire in having the matter resolved at Whim.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In that same court, when some of the cases were called, the parties actually declared that they had reached resolution outside of court. In other words, via a mediatory process, which happened primarily because of the family or communal influences which are rather still powerful in that part of the country as against the urban settings of the city or say most parts of Region # 4, where I am from. A demonstration that mediation can have a role to play in removing some of the backlogs that occupy the Judicial System, as was suggested by many on Tuesday.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In closing, I can imagine Justice Abel bantering in Garifuna as he gathered information on which to make a decision within the laws of Belize while even considering some of the norms and practices which may not be enshrined in the official Legal System of the land but are grounded in the value system of the people that inhabit Belize.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Please continue the conversation and thanks Mr VC for the invite.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yours faithfully,<br />\r\nElton McRae</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/opinion/letters/11/12/the-judge-learnt-the-garifuna-language/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/opinion/letters/11/12/the-judge-learnt-the-garifuna-language/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 458, 467, 'und', 0, '<p>Jamaican reggae artist Chronixx yesterday graced the University of Guyana’s Turkeyen Campus, where he delivered messages of spirituality and love to an auditorium filled with students.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Chronixx, born Jamar McNaughton, is in Guyana for GTT’s Smile Guyana concert, which is scheduled for tonight.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>However, hundreds of students gathered in the George Walcott Lecture Theatre for the “Chronixx on Campus” event, which promised them the opportunity to interact with the musician, pose questions, and possibly even memorialise the moment with a photo.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>There was no shortage of love and support for Chronixx from those gathered, who cheered vociferously for him.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The event mainly took the form of an informal interview, with questions first being directed to the singer by GTT consultant Samantha Gooden as they sat facing the crowd, which was made up of largely of students, past and present, and faculty members.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Asked what has been one of his greatest life lessons, he noted that life itself is one “ever-unfolding lesson.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“One thing I can tell you is that the most beautiful things is to know that even what we hope for as freedom sometimes is not really true and perfect freedom. The greatest freedom is when someone can listen to themselves speak from within and know that it is the truth,” he responded.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>On his song “Likes,” which is featured on his latest album, “Chronology,” Chronixx commented on the importance of pursing that which you love, and placing less emphasis on the opinions of others.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“When I was writing the song “Likes,” it’s one of the songs on the album that I produced maself because it’s one of those songs that come to you fully, like everything come to you one time. And it’s very important to be in the meditation of love because it creates a platform for you to be given your gifts, you know,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“…Personally, I chose to pursue music because it was the one thing that had this deep, unconditional love, and the one thing that would unfold itself to me without me having to chase it… For me, I have managed to overcome the fear of not having people’s approval and that was the first step towards me releasing the music that I truly love; recording the music that I truly love,” he added.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He spoke at length of that “truth” and its link to spirituality and love, themes that feature heavily in his music.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“You’re known—whether it is on the radio show or the stage or on a TV programme, to be very conscious and you speak about life even though you’re young,” Gooden began, before being cut short by Chronixx, who asked her to clarify exactly what she meant by “consciousness.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“So very often when it comes to youth the role models are not one to speak so positively, whether it’s about life or love. You’re considered to be one who speaks about romance as well as resilience with the same kind of [fervor]. That is what I mean when I talk about consciousness,” she stated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“…As role models and so on are concerned, role models are very important for the continuation of culture and for the molding and nurturing of the human spirit. It’s very important. And we have many role models. Many different kinds of role models. And I think everyone is a role model, whether he or she accepts it or not because somebody is watching you—some child or some adult or someone is looking to you and hoping to see what their soul wants and what your soul needs. And they will find it somehow,” he shared.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Later on, while answering a question posed by an audience member, as to how he intends to engage his fan base and assist in the achievement of their goals, he would touch on that point again, noting that one way to influence others is simply through providing an example they are encouraged to emulate.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“…It takes a lot of spiritual focus to do what you love and to be a living example, and the only thing I needed in life, despite my lacking of certain material resources, was an example—an example from Haile Selassie, an example from Empress Menen, an example from my grandparents, an example from Walter Rodney, an example from…so many great people in the world…,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“I’ve been extremely blessed by them, by the amount of focus and work and integrity that they invested of themselves… knowing that I could have gone and gotten a good piece of the pie, but to be someone of creative integrity and artistic integrity doesn’t come cheap. But how do I engage the youth now? I engage the youth by talking to them spirit directly. So rather than someone having to print my speech in a book, you go and listen to it and feel it for yourself,” he added.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/11/18/chronixx-on-freedom-passion-and-role-models/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/11/18/chronixx-on-freedom-passion-and-role-models/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 459, 468, 'und', 0, '<p>SOME 220 were conferred with degrees, diplomas and certificates when the University of Guyana Berbice Campus (UGBC) held its 16th convocation ceremony on Saturday.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Berbice radio personality Treshan Budhram from the “Morning Spice Show” was adjudged this Year’s valedictorian.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Addressing the gathering on the university tarmac, he urged his fellow graduating class of 2017 to channel their achievementsw into becoming innovators.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“As graduates of the University of Guyana, we could know nothing or we could do anything. We say not finding the ideal job. Friends this is the reality. We may not find that job, that career, we hope for but that does not mean we should accept it – if we can’t find that job, create it, make it happen, use what we learn and do not allow external circumstances to define who we are. Let us use our degrees to become innovators – let us believe that we can achieve anything. We can enter this campus with different backgrounds and life experiences and we can now leave this campus as a collective unit ready to transform our communities into a nation we can be proud of.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Budhram also encouraged the graduates to put Guyana first, since this is necessary to move the country forward.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Our country needs our dedication, commitment and diligence and our county deserves our time, investment and creativity. Our communities require our expertise and wisdom. Let us own our mistakes and failures in the same way which we place our successes and achievements, because only then we can take up the rightful roles and allow Guyana to evolve. I urge you to believe in yourself, give yourself the opportunity to press against the shoulders of mediocrity – defeat it and press on to make this country great,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>University of Guyana Chancellor Professor Nigel Harris during his short address, urged the graduating class to make good of the opportunities that will present itself with the discovery of oil here.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“This is not the end or is it the beginning of your educational journey, but in the words of a well-known statesmen, ‘this may be for you the end of the beginning.’ If you are to prevail in your life’s journey, you will have to expand in learning and knowledge many times over,you will likely need to reboot and remake yourselves many times to survive a rapidly changing world. You are at a cusp of the moment that might conceivably lead to considerable changes in Guyana.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>With the discovery of oil and other minerals, there is a possibility of considerable increase in the financial resources coming to Guyana perhaps in an abundance never seen in our history. With imaginative, creative and daring leadership, all of our people can benefit. You can be the instruments of change. I hope you will summon your intellectual and creative skills to capitalise on the new opportunities that may come Guyana’s way,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Vice-Chancellor Professor Ivelaw Griffith noted that of the 220 graduates, the largest batch came from the Faculty of Education and Humanities.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kenisha Gopual, 20, who graduated with an Associate Degree in Biology, was the youngest graduating student while John Alexander, who graduated with a Diploma in Public Management, was the oldest.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>A couple, Jon and Nicolita Collins, were also among the graduates.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/11/19/become-innovators\">http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/11/19/become-innovators</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html');
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('news', 0, 462, 471, 'und', 0, '<p>THE University of Guyana recently held its annual convocation at which over 2000 students graduated from the various departments at that institution. Not unexpectedly, it was a time for celebration as many of the graduates were first-generation achievers, blazing a trail for others to follow. Others were continuing in a family tradition set by earlier generations.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In the final analysis, higher education continues to be for many a stepping stone out of the doldrums of poverty and want for many of our young people—a form of social mobility.<br />\r\nBut even as they celebrated, one could not miss the lament about the state of the university. Indeed, the presentation by the student-speaker, Elsie Harry-Ross, highlighted many of the woes of the institution. Ms. Harry’s critique should be a wake-up call to all those concerned about the future of the university. She drew attention to what she views as “indifference” and “malaise.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Part of her presentation is worth repeating here: “I’ve wasted many days because too many people didn’t know where to find what and didn’t care enough to ask someone who did. This is the highest institution made for our country. If this is not the standard of excellence, then what is? New buildings will not transform the University of Guyana, a change in attitude will…UG, in my opinion, is a microcosm of Guyana.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Therefore, the same inefficiencies can be experienced in the country at large. My advice to everyone listening is simple: stop it, just stop. It has to end, and we must end it. These are the issues that hinder the renaissance of too many students of our university and too many citizens of our country.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>No doubt, we have heard similar testimonies before. In the past, many such critiques have been dismissed as the rumblings of the discontented or as partisan criticism. But, this time, it comes from a proud graduate, who hails the positives of her experience at the university. Some may admonish Ms. Harry for choosing the moment of accomplishment and celebration to make her remarks, but she would retort that it is at those very moments that one catches a captive audience.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The University of Guyana was one of our independence gifts to ourselves and has remained an enduring example of nationhood. It began as an initiative by the then PPP government and was completed by the succeeding PNC-UF coalition government, making it an example of bi-partisanship. It rose to become a respected institution of higher learning by attracting some of the most prominent scholars and intellectuals in Guyana and beyond.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In the process, many boasted about their UG degrees and some even returned there as lecturers and researchers. Above and beyond its academic worth, UG became one of the bulwarks of the crusade for social justice at a time when universities across the world expanded their mandate to include witnessing for the victims of oppression.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>But even as the university played a positive role in decolonising the collective mind and preparing a new generation of nation-builders, it was becoming, like many of our public institutions, a tool of partisan contestation. It is this tendency that would ultimately erode the credibility of the institution as a national space that avoids the often poisonous partisan politics. This political entanglement would rob the university of talented faculty and the much-needed funds to push it into the rapidly changing future.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In the final analysis, the University of Guyana has become a shadow of its former self. The infrastructure fell apart, the intellectual environment suffered, workers wages and salaries stalled or declined, and students became apathetic. Leadership turn-over became more frequent than normal as the authorities looked for a new vision. Some left in frustration as the challenges became overwhelming.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The new vice-chancellor seems to have discovered that truth after less than two years on the job. An enthusiastic educator, who was recruited from the Guyanese diaspora, he appears to have a keen sense of the problems of the institution, but like others before him, he did not anticipate the difficulties of managing a university that has slid as far down as UG. Since his assumption of the leadership, he has sought to make the university much more visible in the larger community by emphasising community-based outreaches. The injection of the university into the broader socio-political discourses of the day is a breath of fresh air.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>But this has not led to a vote of confidence among the university community as can be gleaned from Ms. Harry’s critique. The age-old struggle of the staff for better wages and working conditions is still very much alive. In this struggle, the vice-chancellor is seen as the villain, while the workers’ cause is elevated to the status of righteousness. This is the lot of the leader who must juggle scarce resources and who would inevitably make decisions consistent with his vision.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In the last analysis, the University of Guyana is too vital an institution to continue in its present state. As the only large-scale institution of higher learning in the country, the nation is poorer in the face of the malaise that exists there. We endorse Ms. Harry’s call to halt the slide. But such an endeavour requires the input of all the required stakeholders. And reform cannot be piecemeal—it must arise out of a comprehensive vision that takes into consideration Guyana’s reality and the global environment in which the country operates.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>As a start, the basics must be attended to. Workers’ pay must be improved as a matter of priority. For example, UG would not attract or retain top-flight lecturers with the current salary scale. And no university worth its salt can survive without a cadre of seasoned and qualified faculty. But such improvement must be tied to efficiency and improved academic output. Nowhere in the world do students have to wait weeks and months to get their grades; it is a practice that must be banished as soon as the condition allows. Lecturers should be reminded that a university is an academic and intellectual space that must be constantly nourished with knowledge-production. There is no other way.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The vision of the university needs to be upgraded to become consistent with the national priorities. It is not simply about elevating business education above social sciences or natural sciences above humanities—it is about harmonising all strands of thought and knowledge to produce the rounded and grounded graduate who could be useful in the complex world in which we live. Or as Ms. Harry reminded, big shiny buildings are no substitute for academic and intellectual integrity and quality. Let the rebirth of UG begin in earnest.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/11/19/university-guyana-time-place\">http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/11/19/university-guyana-time-place</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 463, 472, 'und', 0, '<p>Some 41 student/athletes from the University of Guyana (UG) are set to depart Guyana today and tomorrow for the Organization of Universities of Latin American and Caribbean (UDUAL) Games in Curacao.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The games, which are scheduled to run from November 23- 27 will see participation from countries including Bonaire, Panama, Santa Domingo, Guyana and host Curacao.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Guyana contingent will compete in four of the disciplines.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Along with the returning basketball team, for the first time UG will have teams competing in the chess, table tennis and track and field.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ahead of the team’s departure, Vice Chancellor, Dr. Ivelaw Griffith and some members of the governing body had a brief meeting with the athletes on campus yesterday. Dr. Griffith, in his opening remarks, urged the students to have respect for themselves, their sport, their university and the country bearing in mind that they are ambassadors of the school and the country.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He urged the students not to take for granted that they have been given the opportunity to travel in order to represent the university. “I would like you to not take for granted the investment that has been made on the university’s behalf and I would like you to not take for granted the investment that has been made on each individual’s behalf,” Dr. Griffith stressed to the contingent. He reminded the athletes that they are a team, which means that they are responsible for each other in and out of their respective competition areas.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He also stressed the point that they would be around other athletes from different parts who have different cultures and emphasized on how this would be a learning experience for each of them.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Sometimes student/athletes are so caught up in their sports and games that they take for granted that they are representing the university and so you are likely meet persons from other universities who would be curious to learn about your university. They would be persons who may not know much about Guyana and so they would want to ask questions and learn just as much as you may want to learn about theirs. So I would like you not to take for granted that you would be asked questions about UG and Guyana. What can you tell them about UG? What can you tell them about Guyana?” the Vice Chancellor challenged the athletes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He reiterated the importance of being knowledgeable of UG and Guyana so that while they are going out to compete to the best that they can, that they are also going under the banner of the school and country. “Ensure you know something about your country because when you wear that flag or UG paraphernalia, people are going to assume you know about what you’re representing. You are ambassadors.” he added.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Members of the management team traveling with the contingent urged that the student/athletes to be respectful and have fun. The dedication, focus and drive of the athletes as they prepare for the upcoming games while being focused in school was acknowledged.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The athletes in the four disciplines are ready to put their best forward. The experience of the national athletes will be looked upon as an asset to the team in each discipline. Of the four disciplines to be competed in, the chess team may have the least outside experience.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>However this is not going to faze them as one of the country’s top player Davion Mars said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“We have been training a lot. We have been training for about a year ahead of this, so I believe we are in a good position to not return empty handed. If we don’t come back with the overall title for chess I know we will come with some prizes.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The athletes are confident that they are as properly prepared as they can be and it is their aim to do as best as they could during their time in Curacao.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/sports/11/21/ug-student-athletes-off-to-udual-games-in-curacao/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/sports/11/21/ug-student-athletes-off-to-udual-games-in-curacao/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 464, 473, 'und', 0, '<p>UNIVERSITY of Guyana (UG) students studying geography got the unique opportunity last Wednesday of learning hands-on about using the platform, OpenStreetMap (OSM).</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The occasion was the observance of Geographic Information System (GIS) Day, which happens to coincide with observances to mark Geography Awareness Week, better known as GEOWEEK.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The event, which was hosted by UG in collaboration with a host of other agencies, was held on campus at the Centre for Information Technology.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to Ms Malini Jaikarran, an analyst at the Ministry of Communities, GIS Day is observed the world over every year since 1999 on the third Wednesday in November.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Noting that the event brought together representatives of the university’s Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) and the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&amp;PA), she said:<br />\r\n“We are here to introduce the OpenStreetMapping platform in which parts of Guyana will be mapped.<br />\r\n“Students will mark key features, landmarks, businesses and services in their communities.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>As she went on to say, “We are mapping key features and landmarks in the communities where the participants live.<br />\r\n“The main aim of the GIS and OSM Day is basically to develop more geospatial information that can be used by government agencies and the public, and to teach basic mapping skills to the persons participating.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>She said that the OSM site can be accessed Online at openstreet.org, and that after creating an account, anyone with the relevant know-how can use it.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The IDB’s Mr Edgar Lemus, whose field of expertise is geospatial information, said the<br />\r\nOne-day workshop was geared to help UG students plan and manage activities using OSM.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“That basically means that we’re using satellite maps to trace the location of roads and buildings, and produce digital information that anyone can use,” he said, adding:<br />\r\n“As we have students from different levels of education… we are just aiming to produce local capacity-building in the use and generation of open-generation data.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Head of the university’s Department of Geography, Ms Dina Benn said most of the students participating in the workshop that day were from the Earth and Environmental Sciences Faculties.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/11/21/ug-puts-openstreetmapping-to-the-test\">http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/11/21/ug-puts-openstreetmapping-to-the-test</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('event', 0, 465, 474, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana, Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor Planning and International Engagement presents A Netflix Documentary: Virunga Conservation is War. You are invitied to the film screening and panel discussion Human Rights Day 2017.</p>\r\n\r\n<h3><u><strong>Dates</strong></u></h3>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>Linden - Tuesday Novemeber 28th, 2017, 5pm (Location: Egbert Benjamin Exhibition and Conference Centre</li>\r\n	<li>Anna Regina - Sunday December 3rd, 2017, 3pm (Location: Regional Executive Office)</li>\r\n	<li>New Amsterdam - Tuesday Decemeber 5th, 2017, 5pm (Location: Eclipse)</li>\r\n	<li>Georgetown - Thursday Decemeber 7th, 2017, 5pm (The Theatre Guild)&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('event', 0, 467, 476, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana School of&nbsp;Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation in collaboration with The Ministry of Business and Small Business Bureau invites you to&nbsp;its&nbsp;<strong>Inaugural&nbsp;Entrepreneurship​ Conference&nbsp;</strong>under the theme: \"Economic Transformation Through Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation\".&nbsp;</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('carousel_entry', 0, 468, 477, 'und', 0, '<p>Inaugural Entrepreneurship Conference</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 469, 478, 'und', 0, '<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>The University of Guyana Administration and the University of Guyana Senior Staff Association (UGSSA) reached an agreement on salary increases of six percent for UA staff for 2017, after months of negotiations. Although the Administration and the University of Guyana Workers Union (UGWU) had inked their agreement for a raise of 8% for UB staff earlier, the UGWU also needed to be part of the settlement, as it also represents some UA workers.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In addition to the Memorandum of Agreement, which covers the salary increase and stresses the importance of performance, the officials signed a Letter of Understanding which addresses the issues of timely grade submission and the design and implementation of a new performance management system. The signing of the two documents occurred on Tuesday, November 21, 2017. Vice- Chancellor Professor Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith represented the University Administration, Dr Jewel Thomas, President of the UGSSA, signed on behalf of her union, and Mr Bruce Haynes, president of UGWU, signed on behalf of that body. The event took place at the Ministry of Social Protection, and was witnessed by Ms Karen Van Sluytman, Acting Chief Labour Officer. Also in attendance was Mr Lincoln Lewis of the Guyana Trades Union Congress, who was instrumental in securing the settlement.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Agreement and the Letter pave the way forward as it relates to overall performance of all staff members, particularly the submission of grades by the teaching staff. The timely submission of grades has been a perennial issue at UG, and the Administration has sought the support of the Union to remind its members of their obligations to our students. The Administration acknowledges the tremendous work done by most staff members and is committed to ensuring improved service delivery by all staff. Thus, the deadline for submission of all outstanding grades has been extended to December 1, 2017. Staff who will not have met their obligations by then will not receive salary increases.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The stage is now set for some seven hundred (700) full-time and part-time academic and non-academic staff at the UA Level to receive an increase of six (6) percent across-the-board in their December salaries, as well as payments retroactive to January 1, 2017. As with the agreement signed on November 8, 2017 with the UGWU, the offer from the Administration was made in the context of what is affordable, in keeping with the mandate from the University Council, and it stresses the importance of performance.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Vice-Chancellor Griffith noted, “Today’s signing also sets the stage for a new normal at the university, where performance is just as important as payment, and where accountability and affordability are key to enhancing educational entrepreneurship.” Further, he reiterated that, “as regards affordability, these increases are not our only financial obligations. We still have an average of 4.5 percent merit award to</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>From left: Mr Bruce Haynes, President of UGWU; Vice-Chancellor Professor Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith; and Dr Jewel Thomas, President of the UGSSA</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>fund, as well as allowances for traveling, entertainment, and academic materials. We also have to cater for study leave (salary and housing for three months), sabbatical leave (salary and housing for 12 months), leave passage, and responsibility allowances for Coordinators, Heads, and Deans. I am delighted that we are able to close this chapter and begin paying the increases”.</p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\">###</p>\r\n\r\n<h3>UG IN BRIEF</h3>\r\n\r\n<p>With a current enrollment of some 8,000 students, The University of Guyana (UG) has graduated more than 20,000 students who have gone on to successful careers locally, regionally and internationally. The University is also a major contributor to the national economy and to business and industry. Established in 1963 on a part-time basis with shared space at Queens College, UG moved to its own campus at Turkeyen in 1970 and expanded in 2000 with the addition of the Tain Campus. It now offers more than 60 Under- graduate and Post-graduate Programmes including the Natural Sciences, Engineering, Environmental Studies, Forestry, Urban Planning and Management, Tourism Studies, Education, Creative Arts, Economics, Law, Medicine, Optometry and Nursing. Several online programmes are available and The UG also offers extra-mural classes at four locations through its Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE). The UG also offers the opportunity for student engagement in debating, sports, and cultural, religious and professional activities.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Public Relations Division<br />\r\nNovember 21, 2017&nbsp;</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('event', 0, 470, 479, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana will be hosting a seminar on Diaspora Engagement for its Undergraduate and Graduate students on Novemeber 23rd, 2017 from 18:00h to 19:30hrs</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 473, 482, 'und', 0, '<p>A year into owning and operating what is almost certainly the first local company to manufacture such a broad range of detergents and sanitizers, Melissa Younge readily admits that her efforts to secure significant market recognition against a product base long dominated by better-known foreign brands has been no proverbial ‘walk in the park.’ Far from losing heart, however, she appears determined to soldier on, seemingly animated by a feeling that as far as business trends are concerned, the proverbial work is beginning to turn in Guyana.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>For now, she is encouraged by the reviews of a modest customer base that includes Andrews Supermarket, a relatively small community supermarket on Aubrey Barker Road in South Ruimveldt.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Tidy Up, the brand name given to Dunae Trading’s products, comprises eight cleansing-related products………… Dishwashing Liquid, Antibacterial Handsoap,&nbsp; Multipurpose Cleaner, Disinfectant Liquid, Laundry Detergent Liquid, Fabric Softener, Ecoguard Carwash Liquid and Ecoguard Degreaser Liquid. Each of these, she says, has benefitted from the fact that she is well-schooled in the science associated with their research and production.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>She has entered the realm of manufacturing cleaning agents with an eye-catching resume that ranges from a Bsc. Degree in Chemistry from the University of Guyana to holding down various sensitive positions in Quality Control and Laboratory Management in local companies including the National Milling Company (NAMILCO) and the paint manufacturers, Torginol. In Trinidad and Tobago, where she has also lived and worked, she remained in the same field. It was after she moved to Dominica, however, that she began work in earnest developing her own line of janitorial products and while there still remains a considerable gap between investment and returns, a circumstance that can easily cause lesser entrepreneurial spirits to sink, Melissa remains optimistic.</p>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>&nbsp;</div>\r\n</div>\r\n\r\n<p>She had been challenged to bring her skills and her entrepreneurial outlook back to Guyana by the promise it has always offered as a country that had, over the years, advocated local market opportunity for home-grown products; and if – or at least so it seems – her faith in that philosophy remains undiminished she is unhesitating in her view that the now decades-old ‘buy local’ slogan cannot stand in isolation from concrete policies that provide the concept with sturdy legs upon which to stand.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>If she is firm in her view that supermarket shelves and other outlets must help to reflect the country’s manufacturing base, hers, she says, is no arbitrary protectionist policy.&nbsp; By the same token she believes that space simply must be created for locally manufactured products that have evolved out of hard work and costly investment by mostly single investors and family groups. The ‘buy local’ policy, she says, must begin with an aggressive and wide-ranging support for the efforts of local manufacturers and extend to a preparedness on the parts of both&nbsp; distributors and consumers to be ready to at least test the quality and the cost of the imported products, backed by strong branding and big advertising budgets against the locally produced options.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In her quest to grow the local market for the Tidy Up range, Melissa says that she has encountered some barriers that have been frustrating…like tedious (even if understandable) tender procedures that frustrate her efforts to get her cleaning agents established is the washrooms and other spaces in state-run premises and what she considers to be the altogether unacceptable habit of tender notices that actually name the brands of cleaning and sanitizing agents which clients are in the market for, a circumstance which, she says, amounts to a negative comment on the locally produced options. “Those stipulations, she says, have the effect of locking out many local products.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>She welcomes the commitment given recently by Small Business Bureau Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Lowell Porter that the Bureau will give its support to the continued growth of emerging businesses by allocating resources to training and further investment though she believes that a real breakthrough for emerging manufacturing entities like Dunae Trading&nbsp; may well rest with the actualization of the provision in the Small Business Act that allows for 20% of state contracts to be allocated to the small business sector.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>If, she says, she does not want to paint a picture of a small business sector that is thoroughly dependent on being propped up by the state she believes that when the larger role of small and medium-scale enterprises is considered in the context of its potential contribution to economic growth and to boosting employment levels, government has every incentive to show the way, to seek out opportunities to help to raise the sector off the floor. Melissa, however, refuses to wait around. She says she intends to knock on doors and seek the kind of support which she believes can turn around the fortunes of the modest manufacturers as a whole, confident that given the work that it has done&nbsp; over the past year Dunae Trading and its Tidy Up Products can get caught up in the forward-moving groundswell.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/business/11/24/ug-chemistry-graduate-turned-detergent-manufacturer-seeks-more-local-market-space-2/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/business/11/24/ug-chemistry-graduate-turned-detergent-manufacturer-seeks-more-local-market-space-2/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 474, 483, 'und', 0, '<p>Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman Friday outlined a series of initiatives the government is currently engaged in to create an enabling environment for the oil and gas industry to thrive and for the nation to “flourish.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“This new sector will provide increased revenue for the country whilst offering significant opportunities for the development of our businesses and talents.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“To say that it will be transformative will be to understate its impact,” Trotman said at a symposium organised by the University of Guyana’s Faculty of Technology.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In 2018, he said work will continue towards key initiatives, including:</p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>The establishment of –&nbsp; a national oil company with responsibility for Guyana’s commercial interest in the sector.</li>\r\n	<li>A scientific institute to support cutting-edge regulation and development of the sector. This initiative is supported by the Government of Mexico, a country which has a world recognised scientific programme that supports the development of its oil industry.</li>\r\n	<li>An offshore logistics base, which will serve to not only support the operations of the oil operators, and bring much-needed revenue to Guyana, but also support the development of other local industries</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n\r\n<p>Trotman said that in developing the policies and systems to manage the oil and gas sector, the government is committed to ensuring that both the present and future generations will reap the benefits.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“In developing the policies and systems to manage the sector, Trotman said the government is committed to ensuring that both present and future generations will reap the benefits.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The nexus between our current development efforts and repositioning our people, especially our youth, to be able to responsibly manage this sector and all of its ‘spin-off’ benefits is of great importance,” he stated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Trotman said that the Sovereign Wealth Fund Bill is in draft form and under review. The process is being led by the Ministry of Finance and is key to the responsible and prudent management of revenues from the sector.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Bill is intended to strengthen Guyana’s fiscal structures and provide for generational savings through a number of mechanisms, including budgetary support, infrastructural development, savings for future generations, social programmes, environmental protection, and Regional and Citizens benefit sharing.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Local Content Policy is in the drafting and consultation stages.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The Local Content policy is an expansion of our vision as it relates to Guyanese involvement in the sector through training, the promotion of knowledge, and the transfer of technology and experience through mentoring programmes, employment opportunities and business partnerships,” Trotman stated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The present Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Act is being revised. This is the main piece of legislation which details the conduct of activities and their regulation within the sector. This Act will be supported by a series of detailed regulations, the first series of which will speak to the technical, health, safety and environmental requirements.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Petroleum Commission of Guyana Bill is aimed at establishing an agency responsible for the regulation of the sector, ensuring that activities are carried out in conformity with policies, legislation and regulations.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Trotman noted: “This Bill, which currently is before a Special Select Committee, continues to go through a series of national consultations to ensure that we create an agency which is relevant, capable and equipped to carry out this critical function.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Trotman said that while the industry does not employ many persons directly, it generates revenues that can be made available to expend development and provide jobs in other sectors of the economy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Therefore as you shift, think also of enhancing skills that are transferable to other sectors; eg. fabrication – could be utilized in mining and shipbuilding.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“IT and telecommunications, for example, could be applicable across a wide range of sectors as well as welders, chefs, mechanics, logistics, marketing and business administration,” Trotman stated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://newsroom.gy/2017/11/24/govt-creating-environment-for-guyana-to-flourish-off-oil-trotman/\">https://newsroom.gy/2017/11/24/govt-creating-environment-for-guyana-to-flourish-off-oil-trotman/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 475, 484, 'und', 0, '<p>Today, the University of Guyana began consultations on identifying and meeting demands for engineering and operations management skills in the oil and gas industry.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The one-day symposium was held at the Marriott Hotel, Georgetown. Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, in commending the university for its resourcefulness, noted that this stakeholder engagement advances the local content narrative.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“I see this initiative by the University of Guyana as another pillar that builds on the firm foundation we wish to create by helping us to continue our conversation of local content generally and the demands for engineering and operations management skills within the emerging sector specifically,” Minister Trotman said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Industry representatives from ExxonMobil and Repsol along with academics from the University of the West Indies (UWI) and University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) gave their perspectives on the limitations and opportunities for human resources in the industry for UG’s consideration. The private sector, university faculties, and students were also part of the discussions.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The symposium seeks to provide initial orientation for training institutions towards the operation management of the oil and gas companies operating in Guyana.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>However, Minister Trotman cautioned that focus must also be placed on the supporting sectors since there will not be large numbers of direct employment in the industry. “As you shift, think also of enhancing skills that are transferable to other sectors, example, fabrication which can be utilised in mining and shipbuilding, IT and telecommunications,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG is also seeking to understand and align itself with government’s priorities, while also identifying and filling gaps in engineering skills for the industry.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>This stakeholder engagement comes on the heels of a recent $100 million grant from the Ministry of Natural Resources to help the University build capacities in oil and gas.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://gina.gov.gy/ug-consults-industry-other-stakeholders-on-building-capacity-for-oil-industry/\">http://gina.gov.gy/ug-consults-industry-other-stakeholders-on-building-capacity-for-oil-industry/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 476, 485, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana (UG) has agreed to host the J.O.F Haynes Law School at its Turkeyen Campus and has since written the Attorney General, Basil Williams about its decision.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University, Dr Barbara Reynolds confirmed to the News Room during a recent interview that the administration “will make the appropriate arrangements to host the law school”.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Attorney General recently reaffirmed that the construction of the law school is still on the cards after his predecessor Anil Nandlall raised concerns about the lack of progress being made towards its establishment.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Williams was however quoted in a local newspaper, Stabroek News that the project will become a reality once the UG identifies the land.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In January 2017, the government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University College of the Caribbean (UCC)/ Law School of the Americas (LCA) to conduct a feasibility study for the establishment of a law school here. During the ceremony, the media was told that the study will commence in September 2017 and the school was slated to come on stream by 2018.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>But Nandlall during a recent press conference questioned whether the project is still being pursued given that neither talks nor progress is being made to meet those targets.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Have you seen in the press, anything to suggest we are having a law school (soon)? … No real evidence is available that there is going to be such an establishment,” he questioned.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Nandlall maintained that he is extremely suspicious of the institution that is supposed to be helping the country with the establishment of its law school. “I never heard of an institution called Law School of the Americas but this person came and represented that organization,” he expressed, referring to the ceremonial signing of the MoU earlier this year.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Nandlall believes that law students are being duped into placing their hopes and aspirations into the establishment of the local law school. According to reports, the cost per student to attend the J.O.F Haynes Law School of the Americas is dependent on the overall cost of the facility, however, it will be cheaper than other regional facilities.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The school, which is to be named after the very first Coordinator of the law programme, in 1981, Professor J.O.F. (Joseph Oscar Fitzclarence) Haynes will most likely be built in the community of Turkeyen.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The facility is aimed at addressing challenges with limited accommodation that have been faced by local law students, who would want to further their studies at the regional law schools.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://newsroom.gy/2017/11/23/ug-agrees-to-host-law-school/\">https://newsroom.gy/2017/11/23/ug-agrees-to-host-law-school/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 477, 486, 'und', 0, '<p>Georgetown, Guyana – (November 25, 2017)&nbsp;Permanent Secretary, Department of the Public Service, Ministry of the Presidency, Mr. Reginald Brotherson, this afternoon, told the estimated 409 recipients of 2017/2018 University of Guyana (UG) and Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) scholarships that the Government of Guyana’s investment in their education is a demonstration of its commitment to national development and to transforming Guyana into an “education nation”.&nbsp; Speaking at the orientation exercise, which was hosted in the Library of the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), Turkeyen, the Permanent Secretary encouraged the students to see the scholarship as a partnership with the Government, for which their reasonable returns would be to contribute to the prosperity of the nation.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The Government and people of Guyana; taxpayers, we have invested… a lot of monies and we look forward for the appropriate returns … This investment is a partnership … We want you all to understand the nature of that investment. We want you all to understand that the Department of the Public Service in the Ministry of the Presidency is mandated by policy to ensure that we address the student needs, but in addressing the student needs there is a partnership. It is not we and them, but us,” he said. The Permanent Secretary noted that scholarships incur a cost to the State but Government is committed to investing in education and training because it is convinced of the transformative power of education.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Delivering his feature address, Educationist, Mr. Vincent Alexander said that having been the recipient of several Government of Guyana scholarships, he is a testimony of what a scholarship can produce. He said that the ceremony has made him nostalgic and it brings to mind the purpose for which scholarships are granted, for personal development and for nation-building.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Speaking on the topic “The Importance of Education” Mr. Alexander said that “Education is not simply about being certified. Education is not simply about saying that you’re qualified.&nbsp; Education is not simply about getting a good job and a good salary. It’s far more than that… When you get to post-secondary education and tertiary education, it is no longer merely remembering, it’s about being able to apply the information which you acquire, being able to do analysis, being able to do evaluation, being able to synthesise and so you are now in another phase of your own growth and development”.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile, scholarship awardee, Mr. Meshach Atkinson, who will be pursuing a Diploma in Communication Studies at the University of Guyana said,” I think this is a great opportunity for me and I plan to make the most of it”. Past recipients of the programme, Ms. Roshana White, who completed a Diploma in Animal Health and Veterinary Public Health at the GSA; Mr. Jenarine Hardat,&nbsp;<a name=\"m_5384578021306119746__Hlk499402296\"></a>who graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture&nbsp;Science and Ms. Alphia Moore, who graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education, both of the latter two from UG, all expressed gratitude to the Ministry for their scholarships.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“While my University of Guyana experiences [were] met with its fair share of challenges, the scholarship was able to relieve much of my financial burden as well as provide the continuation of employment in Early Childhood Development within the Public Sector. This was an excellent opportunity to pursue my passion, further build on my purpose and add value to the school system at the La Grange Nursery School,” Ms. Moore said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Last year, the Ministry awarded about 310 scholarships, although only a small percentage of those recipients pursued studies at the GSA. The Ministry also offers grants to students pursuing studies at the Carnegie School of Home Economics and The Burrowes School of Art, among other institutions.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://gina.gov.gy/view-ug-gsa-scholarship-as-partnership-with-the-government-ps-brotherson-tells-awardees/\">http://gina.gov.gy/view-ug-gsa-scholarship-as-partnership-with-the-government-ps-brotherson-tells-awardees/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 478, 487, 'und', 0, '<p>Recently the Minister of Education, Marilyn Alcala-Walle received a courtesy visit from Dr. Nigel Gravesande B.A., M.A., PhD, who is the registrar of the University of Guyana together with Guno Rugde, a professor at the University of Curaçao. Dr. Gravensande came to Curaçao to represent the Guyanese Minister of Education, Mrs. Nicolette O. Henry MP.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The objective of the University of Guyana is to offer the Curaçao students the opportunity to continue their education on a bachelor, master and PhD level. The university already has a memorandum of understanding with Aruba and Suriname.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Now the university offers courses in agriculture, environmental science, education and humanity, health science, natural science, social science and technology to the students of Curaçao.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dr. Gravesande also expressed the university’s desire to have a close collaboration with the University of Curaçao where they can exchange programs and students. The university of Guyana wants to create the opportunity where both the universities can synchronize with each other to give the students more opportunities to develop themselves.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Minister Alcala-Walle has invited her Guyanese counterpart to come to Curaçao to sign a MoU between the universities of these countries. This will take place in 2018.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://curacaochronicle.com/politics/more-opportunities-to-study-in-the-region/\">http://curacaochronicle.com/politics/more-opportunities-to-study-in-the-region/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 479, 488, 'und', 0, '<p>The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has announced that it will be supporting the establishment of a Food and Nutrition Institute at the University of Guyana (UG) and help that tertiary institution conduct several studies on climate change related to the agriculture sector.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The announcements were made by the FAO Representative in Guyana, Reuben Robertson at the 10th Turkeyen and Tain Talks, a public forum on various national issues that is organised and held periodically by UG.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He said the US$30,000 institute, which would be established at the Turkeyen Campus, is a tangible contribution to partner with UG in its ongoing leading role in Guyana’s development.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Saying that the focus on food and nutrition security is in line with its global, regional and local commitments, Robertson said FAO and UG would work together towards the establishment of the institute. “Our goal will be to work with the university to strengthen this programme with the expectation that in the final analysis the national capacities will be enhanced and moreover good governance will be established for food and nutrition security throughout Guyana,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The FAO representative said food and nutrition security is at the helm of FAO’s programme in keeping with its global, Caribbean and local commitments such as the Sustainable Development Goals as set by the United Nations.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He also announced that the FAO would be providing US$100,000 to UG to help that tertiary education institution conduct a number of socioeconomic&nbsp; and environmental studies next year that will feed into the national comprehensive proposal for adaptation to climate change in the agriculture sector.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>With the university heightening its public visibility and contribution to discussions on a wide variety of issues of national concern through the now one year old Turkeyen and Tain Talks, Robertson hailed UG’s thrust in forging partnerships.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The university is on the right path, forging smart partnerships for resource mobilization, enhancing the quality of the programmes it delivers, while at the same time expanding into new frontiers including research and the provision of high quality technical services,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The FAO, a specialised technical assistance agency of the United Nations, is leading the charge in environmental and social safeguards and standards, classify risks and build resilience to cope with the impact of climate change.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://demerarawaves.com/2017/12/01/fao-to-fund-ugs-establishment-of-food-and-nutrition-institute-studies-on-agriculture/\">http://demerarawaves.com/2017/12/01/fao-to-fund-ugs-establishment-of-food-and-nutrition-institute-studies-on-agriculture/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 480, 489, 'und', 0, '<p>FARMERS will soon be able to make a better judgment of the soil, now that local rice company, Nand Persaud and Company Limited has invested $40M in the University of Guyana (UG) to have a soil testing facility built at Tain Campus, Berbice.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Company’s Managing Director, Ragindra Persaud, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Guyana (UG) at the 10th session of Turkeyen and Tain talks at the Pegasus Hotel on Thursday evening.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Studies have proven that the practice and use of soil testing has become widely accepted in agribusiness, both by farmers and industry internationally, and Guyana will not be left out, said Persaud during his address to the Pegasus gathering.<br />\r\nThe facility is expected to give farmers from across the country the opportunity to understand what the soil needs in order to know what fertilisers to use and increase their yield.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Persaud believes the cost of production will also be reduced because farmers will know exactly what to apply and to what amount.<br />\r\nAccording to research, soil test reports generally provide farmers with appropriate fertiliser such as application recommendations for nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium and limestone.<br />\r\nSoil testing also allows for determining the micronutrient requirements of crop. It is a farm management tool with a potential benefit to the farmer, mainly increased yields, reduced operating costs and superior environmental risk management.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“We are in rice and we decided to take on this project because we think that farmers are doing things and they are not doing it scientifically,” said the managing director of Nand Persaud and Company Limited.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He said farmers should be looking in the direction of reducing costs, especially in the rice industry, because the demand for rice has increased and will continue to rise in the future.<br />\r\nPersaud made reference to the recent Cuban and Mexican rice deals with Guyana and pointed out that those two countries import some one million tonnes of rice annually.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Guyana, however, lacks the ability to fully supply those markets because it exports only an average of 500,000 tonnes of rice annually.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG Vice Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith, was in full support of the businessman but called on more corporate and international organisations to partner with the university to initiate similar programmes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/12/01/40m-soil-testing-lab-for-tain-campus\">http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/12/01/40m-soil-testing-lab-for-tain-campus</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html');
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('news', 0, 481, 490, 'und', 0, '<p>One of Guyana’s leading rice manufacturers- exporters has agreed to help the University of Guyana (UG) establish a GY$40 million soil and water testing research centre at the Berbice Campus.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by the Chief Executive Officer of Nand Persaud Group of Companies, Rajendra Persaud and Vice Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor Ivelaw Griffith at the 10th Turkeyen and Tain Talks held at the Pegasus Hotel on Thursday.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Persaud told the public forum on Climate Change that his company was motivated to ink the deal with UG because rice farmers are not taking a scientific approach to their work. “We take this gesture to do this here because we feel that farmers are doing things and they are not doing it very scientifically,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>While the center would be located in Berbice, he said it would be accessible to farmers from other areas of Guyana.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He expects that the centre would help rice farmers conduct soil tests with the aim of increasing yield by applying the right fertilizer and eventually lower their cost of production. “As a company, we would like to see the industry be successful,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The CEO of Nand Persaud forecast an increase in demand for rice by Cuba and Mexico which together import almost one million tonnes of the grain, while Guyana exports half of that amount. “With those two markets, we cannot supply enough rice so I think we need to start doing things more scientifically so that we can maximise yield, maximise profit for the farmers and I think this lab will definitely help farmers to do better,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://demerarawaves.com/2017/12/01/rice-manufacturer-university-of-guyana-partner-to-improve-soil-water-testing/\">https://demerarawaves.com/2017/12/01/rice-manufacturer-university-of-guyana-partner-to-improve-soil-water-testing/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 482, 491, 'und', 0, '<p>With Guyana lacking the capability to fully support international markets with rice, the industry will soon benefit from a multi-million-dollar soil testing lab at the University of Guyana (UG) Tain Campus, Berbice. This new initiative will help farmers to make better judgment of the soil. Nand Persaud and Company Limited recently donated $40M to start the project.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) last Thursday evening at the Pegasus Hotel was the Company’s Managing Director, Ragindra Persaud, and Principal of UG, Professor Ivelaw Griffith. The CEO of the Company said that studies have proven that soil testing plays a critical role in the production of all crops, since soils are necessary for the various produces. The soil laboratory will help farmers all across Guyana to be better able to make the right judgments when it comes to the soil and what it needs, rather than guessing.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He added that the lab will assist the farmers to make scientific decisions on what fertiliser to apply to the soil. Persaud said that after the soils are tested, one would know what deficiency the soil has and the farmers will replace that. The farmers will also reduce the spending on fertilisers cost since they will know the right and adequate amount they have to apply to the soil. Persaud told the audience that farmers should be looking in the direction of reducing cost, especially in the rice industry since the demand for rice is on the rise.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He added that Guyana exports an average of 500,000 tonnes of rice annually. He reminded about the Cuban and Mexican rice deal; the countries import some one million tonnes of rice annually.<br />\r\nThe equipment for the soil lab will be supplied during the first part of the New Year, according to Persaud.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2017/12/02/nand-persaud-invests-40m-in-ug-tain-campus-for-soil-testing-lab/\">https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2017/12/02/nand-persaud-invests-40m-in-ug-tain-campus-for-soil-testing-lab/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 483, 492, 'und', 0, '<p>IN recognition of their exemplary achievements and qualifications, Acting Commissioner of Police David Ramnarine on Friday, congratulated those ranks of the Force who recently graduated from both the Turkeyen and Tain Campuses of the University of Guyana.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ramnarine made the comments at an event he held in the commissioner’s board room. In his congratulatory remarks, the Acting Commissioner applauded the graduates for their efforts but also drew to their attention that they are members of a noble institution whose services are in demand.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Adding that they are now endowed with higher learning, Ramnarine said it is expected and required that their performances on the job, in particular the quality of leadership and supervision they exhibit, must improve to their benefit and that of the organisation and the society at large.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Two superintendents, Brian Eastman and Mahendra Siwnarine, who received the prestigious Prime Minister’s Medal have been awarded a plaque each by the Force, in recognition of their achievement.Eastman won his on the 49th convocation of the University whilst Siwnarine won his last month.Superintendent Eastman who is currently pursuing his Masters in Public Management is Head of Special Branch with Superintendent Siwnarine is his deputy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The graduates, eight in total, are: Superintendents Julius Wright and Mahendra Siwnarine- Degree in Public Management; Inspectors Nicola Kendall and Kevin London- Commonwealth Masters in Public Administration; Inspector Dellon Elexey- Degree in International Relations; Inspector Alexis David- Degree in Communication; Sergeant Pearl Jacobs- Degree in Business Management and Constable Darryl Thompson- Diploma in Public Management. Thompson graduated at the Tain Campus.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/12/02/cops-recognised-for-top-performance-at-ug\">http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/12/02/cops-recognised-for-top-performance-at-ug</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 484, 493, 'und', 0, '<p>Guyana’s oil revenues should be used to finance the development of renewable energy sources and cash normally spent on fossil fuels should be fund systems that can resist the impact of climate change, say top local and regional officials.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Anticipated earnings from the oil and gas sector should fund Guyana’s transition to a ‘green economy’ and provide a mechanism for a greenhouse gas set-off to compensate for greenhouse gases emanating from this sector,” Presidential Adviser on the Environment, Retired Rear Admiral Gary Best told a University of Guyana (UG)-organised forum titled “Climate Change: The Guyana Imperative for Prospering in a Climate Altered World.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He said Guyana would require significant “obligated” public and private financing to address climate change adaptation and mitigation. Best noted that Guyana was on track to ensuring that sufficient funds are made available in this regard, “given the endless debate on what constitutes new and additional financial resources.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He argued that climate adaptation measures do not yield significant profits and climate financing institutions have not provided new and additional cash, as mandated by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, causing many countries count overseas development assistance as climate finance contributions.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Best also took issue with the recently introduced&nbsp; insurance mechanism to cover most vulnerable persons against the the “most adverse” effects of climate change. “This is now an insurance mechanism driven and controlled by the developed countries. It is not new and additional climate finance. This is another control mechanism and deviation from public funding of adaptation efforts,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He noted that an Adaptation Fund, which should have been funded by public funds as a key adaptation bank, has been overtaken by a Green Climate Fund now being capitalised through significant private sources.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Caribbean Community’s (Caricom) Programme Manager for Energy, Dr. Devon Gardner added that&nbsp;Guyana and&nbsp;other Caribbean countries should not depend&nbsp;need to generate a renewable energy plan that could allow them to divert a lot of their fossil fuel expenses to developing infrastructure and other systems that can resist the impact of climate change.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Gardner he said Guyana has the capacity to produce bio-energy at 12-13 US cents per kilowatt hour, solar energy and small hydro-power stations. “A system that is properly planned and a system that is suitably designed can in fact just not just mitigate greenhouse gas emissions but really derive a greater benefit, that of adaptation,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Gardner agreed with Best that the region could no longer depend on the international community to pay for climate adaptation. “We must find ways of means of being able to raise resources from within our internal structures that can support some of our adaptation plans and the place to find much of those resources is in the energy sector because the energy sector is where most of our economies bleed,” the Caricom Secretariat official told the 10th Turkeyen Tain Talks named after UG’s campuses in Georgetown and Berbice.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Caricom Programme Manager on Energy noted that energy costs are up to 29 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in some countries, and in the case of Guyana, energy imports last year accounted for 24 percent of GDP.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He also highlighted the vulnerability of the Caribbean to higher oil prices as a result of hurricanes that slam the Gulf of Mexico, further depleting the region of much needed foreign exchange that should be spent on social sector development, salaries and develop infrastructure that could withstand the effects of climate change.&nbsp; “If the system is properly designed, those numbers can in fact go down to the extent where much of that money that is being spent on energy imports could be channeled elsewhere to design the kind of agricultural systems that are more adaptable to climate change to improve some of the coastal infrastructure to make them more resilient to climate change to the flooding that is likely to come and to the countries of the Caribbean where hurricanes are obviously an issue,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, in delivering his 2018 National Budget speech last week in the House, said already the installation of solar photovoltaic panels on 70 government buildings, including ministries, schools, and health centres, has resulted in a 1.86 gigawatt of power savings. Last year, government also&nbsp;installed 10,427 LED lamps and 3,766 motion-sensors across 46 buildings</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Government intends to next year install more panels on 74 additional buildings and an additional 10,610 lamps and 1,486 motion sensors, all of which Jordan said could save taxpayers GY$45.5 million per year in energy costs.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In conclusion, Gardner said the region needs the 3Ps- Prioritization, Planning and Partnership- to build energy resilience.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://demerarawaves.com/2017/12/02/guyanas-oil-sector-should-fund-green-economy-divert-fossil-fuel-cash-to-climate-change-resilience-experts/\">http://demerarawaves.com/2017/12/02/guyanas-oil-sector-should-fund-green-economy-divert-fossil-fuel-cash-to-climate-change-resilience-experts/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 485, 494, 'und', 0, '<p>Guyana, in April 2016, signed the Paris Climate Change Agreement amidst public commitments to achieve 100 per cent renewable energy by 2025, but experts have been painting a dire reality about Guyana’s energy sector.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>One such reality concerns the capacity of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL). Responsible for the distribution of electricity across the length and breadth of Guyana, experts say GPL has such out-dated infrastructure that integrating renewable energy into its grid would be an uphill task.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Head of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Secretariat’s Energy Unit, Dr Devon Gardner, speaking during the recent University of Guyana Turkeyen and Tain Talks, identified GPL’s generation and distribution systems as below industry standard. He noted that while GPL is contending with reaching unserved areas, there is also pressure surrounding the utility company going green.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He painted a picture of a company that has bitten off more than it could chew. “To start with, the grid they currently operate is not in the best of shape, to say it mildly. There’s not a lot of investment that is going into the grid right now. And the fact is it’s always difficult to manage and maintain infrastructure in countries like Guyana, where the population density is very small compared to the distance over which the grid is run.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Dr Gardner explained that the longer the transmission line, the more a utility company’s losses are likely to be from both a technical and criminal standpoint, from the increased possibility of theft. The specialist noted that this all amounts to lost revenue and investment diverted away from upgrading the grid. “Looking at the generation system, not even talking about the fact that it is fossil (fuel) based, the capacity at which power is being generated (by) GPL is 10 to 15 per cent less efficient than the (standard).</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The average rate for the generators is around 8200 BTU (British Thermal Unit) per kilowatt,” he said, adding that this is around 10 per cent higher than what is average in the industry. So GPL is 10 to 15 per cent less efficient. In addition, the transmission losses are currently 28 per cent. For perspective, Gardner explained that the industry standard of transmission losses is five to six per cent, compared to GPL’s 28 per cent. He noted that as a result of these statistics, GPL could stand to benefit from the introduction of renewables.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He noted the potential not only to reduce carbon emissions, but to also lighten the load on the pockets of consumers, if GPL were to switch to renewables. But he said the issue is a complicated one, and he cited GPL’s infrastructure as a major hindrance to renewable energy. “Even if GPL wanted to put wind and solar right now, it’s going to be difficult to put significant amounts. Because the critical issue is because the grid is so unstable, it’s not modern, it means you would run the risk of the system becoming destabilised by the fluctuations and variations of the solar and wind generation,” he explained.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“So the grid issue is a primary source of concern; because, without fixing that, it limits the ability to put certain types of renewables into your grid. (But) there are opportunities for GPL to look at the way it is currently expanding its gridding,” he declared. Notwithstanding the state of its infrastructure, Dr Gardner said, GPL is taking steps in going green.</p>\r\n\r\n<h4><strong>Initiatives</strong></h4>\r\n\r\n<p>Sharing the panel with him was Project Officer for the Project Management Department of GPL, Amir Dillawar. While the young engineer confirmed the stark reality of Gardner’s contributions, he identified what the company is doing about it. “What we have done is advertised recently for three utility scale solar sites,” Dillawar said. “One (is) in Demerara, one in Berbice, and one in Anna Regina. The intention is to shortlist from that public round (persons) to move to proposal stage, where we will enter a build/own/operate/and transfer (BOOT) arrangement,” Dillawar explained.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Essentially, the company would build, own and operate the solar sites, he said, adding, “We will buy power from them. So there (are) three three-megawatt (sites) and there are ongoing negotiations on finalising the Hope Beach Windfarm project. There are restrictions to what and how you can technically put (infrastructure), but we are making moves to have a greening of the sector, little by little,” he explained. In the Finance Ministry’s 2017 mid-year report, it was detailed that GPL’s expenditure increased from $9.3 billion in the first half of 2016 to $12.6 billion in the same period this year. Interestingly enough, this increase in expenditure was noted to be due to higher costs for heavy fuel oil (HFO), reinforcing the need for clean and renewable energy if the Government hopes to cut costs.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Recent issues with the transmission of power have caused the Private Sector Commission (PSC) to take the power company to task for the spate of blackouts.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://www.inewsguyana.com/gpl-operating-below-industry-standard/\">http://www.inewsguyana.com/gpl-operating-below-industry-standard/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 486, 495, 'und', 0, '<p><em>Presidential Adviser on the Environment, Rear Admiral Gary Best, sharing his take on climate change with the audience at the Pegasus Hotel on Thursday</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p>WHILE climate change may be regarded the world over as one of the biggest crises facing humanity, most Caribbean leaders seemingly beg to differ.<br />\r\nThe was starkly brought to the fore Thursday evening by Dean of the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Guyana (UG), Dr. Paulette Bynoe.<br />\r\n“Within the Caribbean, we have a culture of wait-and-see when it comes to environmental management…</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“We are reactive, and in most cases when we react, it is too late,” she said. “A risk-based approach is needed in order to mitigate or adapt to the effects of climate change,” she told participants gathered at the Pegasus Hotel to ponder upon the subject: ‘The Guyana imperative for prospering in a climate-altered world’. As defined by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), climate change is a change of climate that is attributed directly or indirectly to human activity, altering the composition of the global atmosphere.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Due to climate change, the world is faced with global warming, which is the increase in the overall temperature of the earth’s atmosphere generally attributed to the greenhouse effect caused by increased levels of carbon dioxide, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), and other pollutants.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>That and other adverse effects of climate change are being felt by almost every country, including those in the Caribbean, but according to Dr. Bynoe, in spite off all the evidence before them, some regional leaders are still taking a reactionary approach to dealing with the matter.</p>\r\n\r\n<h4><strong>STILL REELING</strong></h4>\r\n\r\n<p>Countries such as Dominica and the British Virgin Islands, she said, are still reeling from the effects of Hurricanes Irma and Maria, which tore through parts of the Caribbean in August and September, leaving scores dead and infrastructure destroyed beyond repair.<br />\r\nAnd while some are still in doubt as to whether the intensity of Hurricanes Maria and Irma had to do with climate change, the experts know better.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The intensity of both hurricanes had seemingly taken the countries by surprise, since most Caribbean leaders were reportedly not expecting them to be so severe.<br />\r\nMost speakers present at the discussion shared their views on climate change, but maintained their focus on the subject at hand.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Turning her attention to the local economy, Dr Bynoe said there needs to be a stronger political commitment and will in order to address climate change.<br />\r\n“There must be political commitment for not just a specific time, but over a period of time so that the commitments can translate to policies that are geared towards dealing with the effects of climate change,” she said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>She made reference to several assessments and agreements which the government can use as a guideline when patterning policies.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>One agreement in particular that was touted by most of the speakers was the Paris Agreement (Accord de Paris), Paris climate accord or Paris climate agreement, which Guyana is a part of.<br />\r\nIt is an agreement within the UNFCCC dealing with greenhouse gas emissions mitigation, adaptation and finance, starting in the year 2020.</p>\r\n\r\n<h4><strong>THE PARIS AGREEMENT</strong></h4>\r\n\r\n<p><br />\r\nThe language of the agreement was negotiated by representatives of 196 parties at the 21st Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC in Paris and adopted by consensus on 12 December 2015. As of November 2017, 195 UNFCCC members have reportedly signed the agreement, and 170 have become party to it. Bynoe said the Agreement aims to respond to the global climate change threat by keeping the global temperature rise this century well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial (1840s) levels, and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase even further to 1.5 degrees Celsius.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Students of UG and persons who were present at the discussion questioned how Global Warming can be mitigated, if most of the economies are driven by fossil fuel and have increasing populations.<br />\r\nThe Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Fifth Assessment Report had highlighted that because of the aforementioned factors there has been an increase in the surface temperature and it is expected to get far worse.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Heat waves will occur more often, there will be extreme precipitation events and the ocean will warm and acidify, added to the rise in global sea levels,” said Bynoe. She believes that if Guyana is going to respond to those changes then there must be economic empowerment through financial flows since the developed countries have held back on their promise to financially support lesser developed countries in the area of climate adaptation.</p>\r\n\r\n<h4><strong>OIL MONEY</strong></h4>\r\n\r\n<p>Since Guyana is expected to be an exporter of petroleum after 2020, Presidential Adviser on the Environment, Rear Admiral Gary Best believes that the earnings from that new industry should fund Guyana’s transition to a green economy. Guyana’s contribution to reducing climate change impacts, according to his interpretation, would require public finance flows for the adaptation of climate change and private finance for mitigation.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He added that overall mainstreaming of adaptation and mitigation measures into the national budget seem to be a matter of course. The adverse effects of climate change have been evident in Guyana since 2005 when almost the entire country was flooded due to heavy rainfall. According to Vice-Chancellor, Dr Ivelaw Griffith, the damages incurred during that period cost the country some US$450M, which is almost 60 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Since then, the Government of Guyana was able to recognise the issue and implemented the Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) through which Guyana benefited from a US$200M agreement with Norway to preserve the rainforest, and by extension mitigate the effects of climate change.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>On the other hand, access to funds for adaptation has been a challenge since the international adaptation fund was overridden by the Green Climate Fund which was established within the framework of the UNFCCC to assist developing countries in adaptation and mitigation practices to counter climate change, he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Although the UNFCCC had declared that Guyana bared no responsibility for climate change it is still an issue which affects the global population, so Best urged persons to help the Government work towards the realisation of a Green Economy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/12/05/wait-and-see-attitude-wont-work\">http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/12/05/wait-and-see-attitude-wont-work</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 487, 496, 'und', 0, '<p>Registration, the issuance of transcripts and everything in between will now flow smoothly for the students of the University of Guyana, following the commissioning of a new registry building at the Turkeyen Campus.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor Ivelaw Griffith, the building aims to benefit the registry staff and students of the Turkeyen University. “Is it necessarily all that we want? No. But it is much better than what we have had allowing us to enable our staff to be in a place of comfort; and enabling us to have the students be served in a place of comfort,” Professor Griffith said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile, President of the University of Guyana Student Society (UGSS), Norwel Hinds said the new building should also serve to encourage the renewal of services being provided.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Although it serves (the building) the practical purpose of consolidating services and consolidating your focus on student services in particular; it also serves as a symbolic indicator on the focus on renewal for campus, the forging of new attitude consistent with the philosophy of servant leadership,” Hinds posited.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Immediate Past Registrar of the University, Vincent Alexander in noting his satisfaction at witnessing the building come to fruition, outlined several changes made over the past few years and the importance of a registry for students attending the university.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The 86.3M three-story building is outfitted with several air conditioner systems and laptops, that will enhance the services provided to over 8000 students at the Turkeyen Campus Georgetown. The construction of the new registry was financed under the Ministry of Education’s annual Budget.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://gina.gov.gy/university-of-guyana-commissions-new-registry-building/\">http://gina.gov.gy/university-of-guyana-commissions-new-registry-building/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 488, 497, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana (UG), in its aim to provide more effective and efficient service to students, has opened a new Registry building at its Turkeyen campus.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Yesterday’s opening ceremony saw the cutting of the ribbon to the new building and the unveiling of a plaque, as well as the handing over of 10 laptops to the Admissions Division, from the Education Resource Ambassadors in North America.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The construction of the three-storey building was funded by UG with support from the Ministry of Education, at a total cost of $86,265,000.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Immediate Past Registrar of the University Vincent Alexander&nbsp;recalled the eight-year-long “challenge” that had been faced in making the new building a reality. He related, though, that even before the building’s construction, the department was restructured, inclusive of the upgrading of the job requirements and job parameters, and the computerisation and digitisation of the system.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He noted that although the student population has been growing rapidly, the Registry has retained the same number of staff.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Currently, the Registry department of the University is staffed with 87 full- and part-time staff members, all of whom service approximately 8,000 students across two campuses and four Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE) centres.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Registrar Dr Nigel Gravesande emphasised that the Registry is the first and last point of interaction for university students and therefore should be “student-focused” and “student-friendly.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The student experience begins at the Registry from the time of application and school visits in a structured outreach programme and can continue long after graduation when testimonials and transcripts are required from our alumni. Ours is a mission to provide a student-focused and a student-friendly environment servicing the needs of prospective, current and past students,” Gravesande stated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG Vice-Chancellor Dr Ivelaw Griffith made a plea for students to respect the resources of the university in a bid to not reverse the work put in by others to develop it.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He stated that despite the challenges that have come with managing a university where the “student enrolment has grown beyond the physical and other support systems,” efforts have been made to ensure that today there is a facility that persons can be proud of.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“…Please students and staff, view this place as your place. Please, students and staff, protect this place as you would protect your own place…,” Griffith charged.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“…we have the unfortunate reality of being a microcosm of our broader society, where you sometimes don’t see ownership and respect by the way in which people keep their surroundings, treat the facilities. Let us not undo the work of many people over the years and people who are continuing to do work with this university by disrespecting this place,” he added.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Also delivering remarks yesterday was Norwell Hinds, President of the University of Guyana Students’ Society.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The building itself, although it serves the practical purpose of consolidating services, and consolidating their focus on student services in particular, it also serves a symbolic purpose—symbolic in the case of focus on renewal for our campus, the forging of a new attitude to the system with a philosophy of servant leadership…and that type of leadership recognises the student as an asset, as a client, as a partner…,” Hinds stated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Appearing in the stead of the Minister of Education Nicolette Henry yesterday was Assistant Chief Education Officer Owen Pollard, who said that the development of the building would in turn aid the development of the country.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/12/06/ug-opens-new-registry-building-at-turkeyen-campus/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/news/stories/12/06/ug-opens-new-registry-building-at-turkeyen-campus/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 492, 501, 'und', 0, '<p>Five months after the University of Guyana’s School of Entrepreneurship and Business, (SEBI) was launched, Dean of the new institution, Guyanese-born Professor Leyland Lucas has told the Stabroek Business that some of the challenges that repose in ensuring that the institution delivers on its mandate repose in the fact that “it is different. It is not an orthodox Business School”.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>From the outset SEBI had committed to what it had determined from careful research was the need to respond to a counterproductive deficit in disciplines related to operating in both the public and private sectors in areas related to the effective delivery of goods and services. Not surprisingly, therefore, SEBI has found itself challenged by a student body that is anything but conventional, comprising as it does classes ranging from students with orthodox academic ambitions to those whose livelihoods depend on grasping the essentials necessary to run a business of their own.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Some of our students have come to us with challenges that have nothing to do with academia. They are simply preoccupied with finding answers to those questions that have to do with running their own businesses,” Lucas told Stabroek Business. “Frankly, we recognize that some of our courses are still not fully developed to meet those needs. We hope that this will happen in the second term.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>But there is, he says, an upside to the complex mix of interests that comprise SEBI’s classes. Lucas embraces the outcomes of interaction on business issues that bring together the orthodox students and the ‘hard-nosed’ hustlers in exchanges that pit the orthodoxy of business theory against how it works in practice. Lucas believes that the outcomes of these exchanges&nbsp;&nbsp; are almost always more rewarding. What has transpired since July has reinforced his view that SEBI itself remains a work in progress and that the tweaking to ensure that it becomes the ‘correct fit’ to meet the needs of the students will have to persist for some time.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>For the lecturers the ‘journey’ has been an interesting one. Lucas says that they have learnt to deal with the dichotomy between and amongst the interests that obtain inside the classroom. “What this means is that we tend to have conversations rather than lecturers. They are structured in a manner that allows for conversations rather than lectures. We want the business people to be part of the conversations.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Long before SEBI had launched its classes it had been engaging both public and private sector institutions. Those discourses, Lucas says, persists, with agencies like the state-run Small Business Bureau which has already collaborated with SEBI to stage a business symposium.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Professor Lucas sees 2018 as a breakout year during which SEBI will intensify its engagements with both the public and private sectors with a views to determining how its offerings can improve the effectiveness of their operations. Outside of the state agencies that include entities like the Guyana Office for Investment (Go-Invest) SEBI’S 2018 ‘to do’ list also includes meetings with the Private Sector Commission, the Guyana Manufacturing &amp; Services Association, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and the Guyana Association of Bankers.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In 2018 SEBI seeks to further promote what it has to offer. Professor Lucas told Stabroek Business that ongoing discussions with the banking community could lead to the rolling out of a Diploma in Banking and Finance. Next year will also see SEBI offering a Customer Service Certificate Programme for the medical sector.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/business/12/08/lucas-sees-2018-as-breakout-year-for-ugs-school-of-business/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/business/12/08/lucas-sees-2018-as-breakout-year-for-ugs-school-of-business/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 493, 502, 'und', 0, '<p><em>- local scientific institute, logistics base also on the cards</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman has disclosed three key objectives which the Government of Guyana will be pursuing in 2018 to consolidate its capacity to effectively service a modern oil and gas industry including a national oil company which will be charged with responsibility for overseeing the country’s commercial interest in the sector.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the same time, Trotman said that during next year government will be seeking the support of the Government of Mexico in pursuit of the creation of “a scientific institute to support cutting edge regulation and development of&nbsp;the sector and an onshore logistics base that will serve both as a revenue earner as well as to support the development of other local industries.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Making these disclosures during a presentation to a November 24 Stakeholder Symposium at the University of Guyana titled “Identifying and meeting the demands for engineering and operations management skill required in Guyana’s emerging oil and gas industry,” Trotman also cautioned his audience on the importance of us disabusing ourselves of the notion that large capital investment in the oil industry translates into significant levels of direct employment. Guyanese, he said, must instead continue to bear in mind that the oil industry generates revenue levels “that can be made available to expand development and provide jobs in other sectors of the economy”, Trotman declared.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Addressing a gathering at the Turkeyen Campus that included both lecturers and students, Trotman said that the advent of an oil economy will have the effect of creating many more jobs outside of the sector. “……….as you shift, think also of&nbsp;enhancing skills that are transferrable to other sectors,” Trotman told his audience.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Contextually, the Natural Resources Minister cited fabrication which he said could be utilized in mining and shipbuilding, information technology and telecommunications which can be applicable across&nbsp;&nbsp; a&nbsp;&nbsp; wide&nbsp;&nbsp; range&nbsp;&nbsp; of&nbsp;&nbsp; sectors&nbsp;&nbsp; as&nbsp;&nbsp; well&nbsp;&nbsp; as “welders, chefs, mechanics, logistics, marketing and business administration.” In effect, Trotman said, the advent of an oil economy could see “highly trained&nbsp;&nbsp; professionals&nbsp;as well as&nbsp;an&nbsp;inherent&nbsp;culture&nbsp;integrated&nbsp;into&nbsp;other&nbsp;pertinent&nbsp;sectors&nbsp;in&nbsp;the&nbsp;nation’s&nbsp;economy.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In his presentation Trotman also sought to update the university community on the inventory of institutions that have already been created and those that are scheduled to be created in the period ahead to help manage the sector.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He disclosed that “at the level of Cabinet” government has created a sub-committee for the petroleum sector comprising the Ministers of State, Natural Resources, Finance,&nbsp;Infrastructure,&nbsp;Business&nbsp;and&nbsp;&nbsp; the&nbsp;Presidential&nbsp;Advisor on&nbsp;Petroleum whilst at the ministerial level a&nbsp; Petroleum&nbsp;Sector Ministerial&nbsp;Committee had been created&nbsp;comprising&nbsp;the&nbsp;Ministers&nbsp;of&nbsp;State,&nbsp;Natural&nbsp;&nbsp;Resources, Finance, Infrastructure and Business. At the level of the Ministry of Natural Resources itself, the Minister disclosed that the Ministry had been consistently expanding its internal capacity by engaging “expert advisors and&nbsp;&nbsp; establishing&nbsp;&nbsp; a&nbsp;&nbsp; Petroleum&nbsp;&nbsp; Department” in addition to supporting&nbsp;“key&nbsp;governance&nbsp;initiatives” including the recently created Guyana&nbsp;Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (G-EITI) that allowed for the country’s subsequent membership of&nbsp;the&nbsp;international&nbsp;institution, the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI).</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The EITI is a global standard to promote the open and accountable management of oil, gas and mineral resources. It seeks to address the key governance issues of the oil, gas and mining sectors.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/business/12/08/company-to-oversee-guyanas-commercial-petroleum-interests-to-be-created-next-year/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/business/12/08/company-to-oversee-guyanas-commercial-petroleum-interests-to-be-created-next-year/</a></u></p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 494, 503, 'und', 0, '<p>This year 793 students have graduated from the Government Technical Institute (GTI) certified in several disciplines. The institute’s sixty-sixth graduation ceremony was hosted at the National Cultural Centre, on Thursday.Registrar of the University of Guyana, Dr. Nigel Gravesande, told the students that it was their hard work and dedication that has ushered them to the point where they are now qualified for the world of work, the Department of Public Information (DPI) said.Valedictorian Hardial Sawh who received a diploma in Mechanical Engineering, advised his fellow graduates that they were just embarking on their life-journey.“This is not the end, it is just the beginning of our lives. Some of you will go on, into the world of work and become professionals in your own field. Some of you will go on to pursue higher levels of education. Whatever your dreams and goals are, I wish you all the best and may we all be successful with whatever decisions we make in the future,” the young man said.Some of the graduates (DPI photos)</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/photos/12/08/gti-graduation-2/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2017/photos/12/08/gti-graduation-2/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 495, 504, 'und', 0, '<p>Press Secretary and Television Anchor Malika N. Ramsey chats it up with Guyanese music icon Dave Martins as he does a residency with the University of Guyana. University of Guyana Vice Chancellor Professor Ivelaw Griffith and Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohammed also join the conversation.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<iframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https://www.youtube.com/embed/UeKyUwU91eM\" frameborder=\"0\" gesture=\"media\" allow=\"encrypted-media\" allowfullscreen></iframe>\r\n<br><br>\r\n<iframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https://www.youtube.com/embed/OG0uhmFjqgY\" frameborder=\"0\" gesture=\"media\" allow=\"encrypted-media\" allowfullscreen></iframe>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 496, 505, 'und', 0, '<p>THE legislative arm of the Government of Guyana has seemingly been taken over by Kangalangs. Kangalangs are uncivil persons who have no regard for the norms of an institution, group or social gathering and act to deliberately create disarray in their environments, in such manner as to disrupt normal functioning.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Kangalangs display blatant disrespect for others and moreso are indifferent to any consequences for their actions. They are by no means sociopathic, but are instead selectively irresponsible. They engage in chaotic behaviors, not with the aim of achieving any specific outcomes, but purely out of calculated and reckless disregard for others and prevailing norms. This social type must not be mistaken for the conventional protestor. Kangalangs show up at events, showering contempt on others and promoting chaos on proceedings, regardless of its nature or its course.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Some Parliamentarians of the opposition People Progressive Party (PPP/Civic) at the Monday, December 11 sitting of the nation’s Parliament behaved like kangalangs. Their actions served to bring disrepute on this legislative arm of the national government. The authority of the Speaker of the Parliament to moderate proceedings was disregarded. Raucous behavior ensued. Law enforcement officers who stood guard at Parliament were summoned and allegedly subjected to abuse by the opposition PPP/C Parliamentarians.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this openly public forum, false accusations of rape and police misconduct were shouted by opposition MPs in the highest law making body of the land. The kangalang drama is said to have found its way on to Facebook and therefore spotlighted to the whole world. Needless to say, this public display of kangalangism is an utter embarrassment to the Government of Guyana, of which the opposition PPP/C is a part, and to the Guyanese people. What sort of country is Guyana becoming? Can investors and tourists take Guyana seriously? Kangalangs in Parliament are enemies of the country’s progress and development.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>This is by no means the first Kangalang chaos in the Parliament. Unless resolute remedies are urgently found and implemented, it will certainly not be the last.<br />\r\nPolitical parties in opposition, all around the world, are invariably dissatisfied with the procedural conduct of their respective legislatures. I am not in a position to determine whether or not the opposition PPP/C Parliamentarians have serious and justifiable concerns about the management of Parliament and the stewardship of its Speaker.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>They may well have, in a political system that is still oriented to winner takes all politics. There are certainly long-established protocols for conducting the business of the Parliament and even appealing the rulings of its Speaker. There are therefore no justifications for kangalang behaviors in the nation’s Parliament. Such behaviors accomplish nothing but show its perpetrators, the institution, and the country in a very negative light.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Guyana is already a country in which there is a prevalence of incidents of open disregard for laws and public decency. To have our nation’s leaders–its parliamentarians–engage in such reprehensible conduct, and in the Legislature at that, set a horrible example for everyone else. The message being sent by such Parliamentarians is that parties with differences of opinion must resort to vitriolic conflict to resolve such differences. And, that “cussing out” is better than civil discourse.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>It is imperative that a formal inquiry be conducted into the ruckus which led to chaos and the breakdown of order, if not also law, in the nation’s Parliament on December 11. Suspending a Bishop alone may work in a game of chess. When will kangalangs erupt again in Parliament immobilizing its functioning? It is becoming systemic; a new normal in the functioning of the Legislature. Good governance, however, depends on the integrity and credibility in the operation of key institutions. An impartial inquiry that can determine the causes of failures and breakdowns in this revered government institution and arrive at functional remedies is crucial.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The leader of the PPP/C has pledged non-cooperation with the incumbent APNU/AFC Government and promises to disrupt its policies, programs and functioning. If the ignominy that was inflicted on the august Parliament and people of this country on December 11 was a deliberate tactic, then, the responsible Leader of the Governmental Opposition ought to reconsider such actions. I would rather like to think it was neither planned nor deliberate. But, it must never happen again!</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/12/16/kangalangs-in-parliament\">http://guyanachronicle.com/2017/12/16/kangalangs-in-parliament</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('event', 0, 497, 506, 'und', 0, '<p class=\"rtecenter\"><strong>Professor Ivelaw Llyod Griffith</strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\">The Tenth Vice-Chancellor of The University of Guyana</p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\">requests your presence at</p>\r\n\r\n<h4 class=\"rtecenter\"><strong>The Inaugural University of Guyana Press Board Meeting</strong></h4>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\">January 20th, 2018</p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\">at</p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\">Duke Lodge, Kingston Georgetown</p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\">&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\"><u><strong>Contact Details</strong></u></p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\"><em>Telephone: (592) 222-8063 |&nbsp;(592) 222-4932</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\"><em>Email: </em><strong><em>danniebelle.mohabir@uog.edu.gy | strategy@uog.edu.gy</em></strong></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('carousel_entry', 0, 498, 507, 'und', 0, '<p>Inaugural University of Guyana Press Board Meeting</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('carousel_entry', 0, 500, 509, 'und', 0, '<p>Inaugural Entrepreneurship Conference</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html');
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('news', 0, 501, 510, 'und', 0, '<p><em>Dear Editor,</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p>On January 12, 2018, Guyana celebrates 165 years since the arrival of the first Chinese immigrants on the shores of British Guiana at Windsor in 1853.&nbsp; Details of the history of migration, the long voyages and the several issues of indentureship have not all been happy, but the causes for celebration of the social development of a people who have made considerable contributions to the building of a nation are infinite.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The various sources advise us that hundreds of those who left the different ports in China perished at sea and the system of indentured labour that they joined in the colony is one whose notoriety cast a shadow of darkness over Guyanese history.&nbsp; But the story of the Chinese presence in the developing Guyanese society is a much happier sequel. What is worthy of the highest commendation and sincere congratulations to the Chinese community are the resoluteness and strength of character of an industrious people and the role they performed in the triumphs of the Guyanese nation as it stands today.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Several of those who arrived did not complete their contracts and joined other enterprises elsewhere in the colony.&nbsp; Many others either returned to China at the end of their contracts or left to join the growing Chinese communities in the West Indian islands of Jamaica and Trinidad, and the neighbouring colony of Dutch Guiana, now Suriname.&nbsp; Many more of those who finished their contracts left the sugar estates to build other industries, providing goods, merchandise and various services to the local population, becoming pillars of construction in the industrial and private sector advancement of the country.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Several Chinese men between 1853 and 1879 became deeply integrated into local domestic society outside of the plantations, which was remarked upon by historians and anthropologists.&nbsp; After 1920 many Chinese descendants began to join the professions and the intellectual class leading to their further contributions to politics and culture as well as business and industry.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>What stands out, however, but has largely gone unfabled, is the Guyanese Chinese contribution to sports.&nbsp; Most exceptional is the dominance in hockey of Chinese players in the 1960s and 1970s, making up most of the national teams during those years with the commensurate impact on the building of the sport.&nbsp; Chinese have also been famous in other sports such as table tennis, squash and motor sports in the years after Independence.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Confucius Institute at the University of Guyana is an institution arising from the increasing close relations between the respective Republics of Guyana and China that have multiplied and diversified in contemporary times, and have included the large and growing community of a new wave of Chinese immigrants during the last 20 years.&nbsp; The institute, taking the lead on behalf of the university, has a responsibility for academic training and cultural exchanges to foster knowledge and learning and foster a more enlightened Guyanese population where the Chinese presence in Guyana is concerned.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>It is our honour to congratulate the Chinese Association, the Chinese community and join the nation in this observation of the 165th Anniversary of Chinese Arrival in Guyana.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><em>Yours faithfully,</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em>Al Creighton</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em>Director of Confucius Institute</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p><em>University of Guyana</em></p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<p><em>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2018/opinion/letters/01/12/guyana-celebrates-165-years-of-chinese-arrival-today/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2018/opinion/letters/01/12/guyana-celebrates-165-years-of-chinese-arrival-today/</a></u></em></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 502, 511, 'und', 0, '<p>Students of the University of Guyana commenced the new year with an enriching session of golf as part of their ongoing project in partnership with the Lusignan Golf Club (LGC); aimed at fusing sport and academics. The first session of 2018 was held on the make-shift Greens near the University’s Sports faculty on Friday afternoon. The interactive session featured a number of students, LGC President Aleem Hussain and former Guyana Cup women’s champ and one of the country’s best golfers Joaan Deo as well as a few members of the club.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>With golf on the rise, the aim of the session was to teach the students the basics of golf while taking them on a path of becoming the next crop of top golfers. Areas such as putting, chipping, driving and accuracy were instilled during the near two-hour long session. As sports and academics continue its path of matrimony in Guyana, the sessions help bind the undergraduates book work with golf. The team features roughly 15 university attendees, mostly ladies who work closely with Deo and others during the sessions.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>When Guyana Times Sport visited the University, the students were in the midst of being taught the basics of drives and putts in an environment which mirrored that of a mini Lusignan course.<br />\r\nEach of the upcoming golfers was outfitted with their own pieces of gear as the LGC seeks to properly teach the craft to the newbies. Feedback from some of the students were positive as most of them seemed to already be getting into their groove. Both Hussain and Deo said the project which will feature weekly session at the Lusignan course, should benefit all the participants by the end of the duration of the introductory session. Also the project is geared towards ensuring that all the students continue down the path of golf and become members of the club.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The course also affords those interested in pursuing a future in golf to easily become members of the fraternity and further increase their prowess in the sport. The facilitators further noted that they expect the current number to triple in the near future as the feedback regarding the project is positive. Sessions continue this Friday at the newly refurbished LGC greens from 16:00h.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://guyanatimesgy.com/lgc-ug-golf-programme-growing-rapidly/\">https://guyanatimesgy.com/lgc-ug-golf-programme-growing-rapidly/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 503, 512, 'und', 0, '<p>Farmers from across Berbice will now be provided with the opportunity to be trained and certified in crop protection. According to the Director of the University of Guyana Berbice Campus Gomathinayagam Subramanian, a special certification programme has been drafted to engage farmers in Berbice with mostly practical training on crop protection.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The certification programme is only for farmers and it does not contain much reading or writing. It is designed in a way that farmers can do the practicals which are expected to start this academic year in September,” Subramanian explained. Registration for the programme will soon commence and will cost farmers $50,000 each. The director noted that persons who are not farmers are also welcome to join.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Maybe in the future, we will expand to Turkeyen but this is what the Berbice campus is going to offer, I already submitted everything to my faculty and they will take almost two months to confirm everything. But if other persons want to join they are free to do so; but it’s for mostly farmers” the director clarified. This exercise is expected to last for six weeks and Subramania noted that the certificate that farmers will receive on completion of the course, will be recognized similarly as any other certificate received the University of Guyana.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://gina.gov.gy/crop-protection-certification-programme-to-be-introduce-at-ug-tain-campus/\">http://gina.gov.gy/crop-protection-certification-programme-to-be-introduce-at-ug-tain-campus/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('event', 0, 504, 513, 'und', 0, '<p>These conversations invite participants and the general public to examine the legal ramificationsof social issues and the social ramifications of legal issues through research and refection, dialogue and debate. They provide an opportunity for the University &amp; the public to share ideas and contribute to positive changes in our society.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"/sites/default/files/gallery/Invitation%20to%20Law%20and%20Society%202%20-%20Guyana%27s%20Borders.jpg\" style=\"width: 1134px;\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n', '', 'full_html'),
('book', 0, 507, 516, 'und', 0, '<section class=\"about modal-block\">\r\n  <div class=\"container\">\r\n    <div class=\"section-content\">\r\n      <div class=\"row\">\r\n        <div class=\"col-md-6 modal-link-container\">\r\n          <h6 class=\"letter-space-4 text-gray-darkgray text-uppercase mt-0 mb-0\">All About</h6>\r\n          <h2 class=\"text-uppercase font-weight-600 mt-0 font-28 line-bottom\">Committees &amp; Archives Unit </h2>\r\n          <h4 class=\"text-theme-colored\">\"Ours is a mission to create a conducive environment at UG to facilitate the teaching/learning process &amp; to provide support to all students and Departments in the realisation of this mission\" - <em>Dr C. Nigel Gravesande, Registrar, University of Guyana</em></h4>\r\n          <p>The Committee &amp; Archives unit forms the major pillar for the smooth processing of meetings for policy formulation, governance, academic and budgetary decision making of the University of Guyana. The Unit also handles the safekeeping of all official institutional records of the University.</p>\r\n          <!-- <a href=\"#0\" data-bs-type=\"modal-1\" class=\"btn btn-primary\">Learn More</a> -->\r\n        </div>\r\n        <div class=\"col-md-6\">\r\n          <img src=\"/sites/default/files/gallery/24831208_868614909986416_1232036403277600780_o.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"width:100%\" class=\"img-responsive\">\r\n        </div>\r\n      </div>\r\n    </div>\r\n  </div>\r\n</section>\r\n<!-- BENEFITS GRID BORDER 2 BLOCK-->\r\n<section id=\"benefits-collapse-right-2\" class=\"cover-bg\" style=\"background-image:url(/sites/default/files/images/bg54.jpg)\">\r\n			<div class=\"container\">\r\n        <h2 class=\"title text-center\">Our Functions</h2>\r\n				<div class=\"row\">\r\n					<div class=\"col-md-12\">\r\n						<div class=\"card\"> <a class=\"card-header collapsed\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapseBenefit1\"><i class=\"icon icon-pencil2\"></i> <span class=\"editContent\">Secretarial Duties</span></a>\r\n							<div id=\"collapseBenefit1\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\">\r\n								<div class=\"card-body\">Provide secretarial duties to all Statutory Committees and sub-committees instituted by the Council, Academic Board or the Finance and General Purposes Committee.</div>\r\n							</div>\r\n						</div>\r\n						<div class=\"card\"> <a class=\"card-header collapsed\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapseBenefit2\"><i class=\"icon icon-lock\"></i> <span class=\"editContent\">Record Security</span></a>\r\n							<div id=\"collapseBenefit2\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\">\r\n								<div class=\"card-body\">Ensure that all institutional records are secured for future retrieval.</div>\r\n							</div>\r\n						</div>\r\n						<div class=\"card\"> <a class=\"card-header collapsed\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapseBenefit3\"><i class=\"icon icon-notebook\"></i> <span class=\"editContent\">Record Preservation</span></a>\r\n							<div id=\"collapseBenefit3\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\">\r\n								<div class=\"card-body\">•	Include the capacity to select, preserve and make available for administrative or research purposes all Institutional Records of the University. This new dispensation will include archival functions along with the creation of an Electronic Records Management System, policies for retention and discard of records, data-bs entry and indexing manuals.</div>\r\n							</div>\r\n						</div>\r\n					</div>\r\n				</div>\r\n			</div>\r\n		</section>', '', 'plain_text_new'),
('staff_profile', 0, 515, 524, 'und', 0, '<p>Danniebelle Mohabir has been employed at the University of Guyana for over six (6) years. During her tenure as a Senior Assistant Librarian and historian, she has learned to pay keen attention to details and is very organised. Her ability to manage and supervise various departments effectively in the University Library has been commended by her superiors. Danniebelle values effective communication and regularly emphasizes among students and staff, the dissemination of information.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mrs. Mohabir obtained a Bachelors of Arts in History, a Post-Graduate Diploma in Education (Social Studies) and is presently pursuing a Master of Science in Urban Planning and Management at the University of Guyana. She brings to the University a high level of professionalism and looks forward to working on the renaissance of the University of Guyana.&nbsp;</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 518, 527, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana (UG) has commenced planning to commemorate the birth centennial of the late President Dr Cheddi B. Jagan in March this year. The commemoration envisages a series of academic activities to honour the co-founder of Guyana’s premiere tertiary institution, which was established in 1963.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Vice-Chancellor Professor Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith recently convened the inaugural meeting of the twelve-member, broad-based planning committee tasked to recommend a comprehensive set of commemoration events. Under the Chairmanship of Dr Nigel Gravesande, University Registrar, who is an historian, the committee includes Professor Paloma Mohamed, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Philanthropy, Alumni and Civic Engagement; Professor Subramanian Gomalthinayagam, Director of the Berbice Campus; and Mr Tota Mangar, former Deputy Vice-Chancellor and a respected historian.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Also part of the planning committee are: Ms Indra Chandrapaul of the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre; Ms Gwyneth George, University Librarian; Ms Emily King, Director of the National Library; Ms Paulette Paul, UG’s Public Relations Officer; Dr Cheddi (Joey) Jagan, Jr; Dr Nigel Westmaas, Associate Professor of Af-ricana Studies at Hamilton College in New York; Mr Kadasi Ceres of UG’s Faculty of Social Sciences; and Assistant Registrar June Ann Garnett, who is Secretary to the Planning Committee.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to Vice-Chancellor Griffith, “this commemoration is intended to be consonant with universities do: facilitate discourse on significant personalities, policies, programmes, and events, analysing relevant aspects, some of which might be contentious.” At the inaugural planning committee meeting the Vice-Chancellor stressed that the commemoration will not be a partisan pursuit, nor will it facilitate such.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Committee is expected to organise a series of exhibitions on the life and works of the late President, hold symposia at both campuses, and install a commemorative plaque at the Cheddi Jagan Lecture Theatre on the Turkeyen campus. The opportunity will be taken to raise funds to renovate the Lecture Theatre, and to increase awareness about Dr Jagan among the younger generation.</p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\">###</p>\r\n\r\n<h4>UG IN BRIEF</h4>\r\n\r\n<p>With a current enrollment of some 8,000 students, The University of Guyana (UG) has graduated more than 20,000 students who have gone on to successful careers locally, regionally and internationally. The University is also a major contributor to the national economy and to business and industry. Established in 1963 on a part-time basis with shared space at Queens College, UG moved to its own campus at Turkeyen in 1970 and expanded in 2000 with the addition of the Tain Campus. It now offers more than 60 Under-graduate and Post-graduate Programmes including Engineering, Environmental Studies, Forestry, Urban Planning and Manage-ment, Business, Entrepreneurship, Tourism Studies, Education, Creative Arts, Economics, Law, Medicine, Optometry and Nursing. Several online programmes are available and UG also offers extra-mural classes at four locations through its Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE). The UG also offers the opportunity for student engagement in debating, sports, and cultural, religious and professional activities.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Public Relations Division</p>\r\n\r\n<p>January 23, 2018</p>\r\n', '', 'full_html'),
('event', 0, 521, 530, 'und', 0, '<p>The Tenth Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith, request the pleasure of your company at the&nbsp;<strong>&nbsp;Education as</strong>&nbsp;<strong>Freedom:\"Education Reform and Socio-Economic Development in Guyana\"&nbsp;</strong>, on Wednesday, January 31, 2018&nbsp; at the Pegasus Hotel, Kingston, Georgetown from 18:00 to 20:00hrs.&nbsp;</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 523, 532, 'und', 0, '<p>The Editorial Advisory Board of the recently-established University of Guyana Press (UGP) held its inaugural meeting on Saturday, January 20, 2018 at Duke Lodge, Duke Street, Kingston, Georgetown and laid the foundation for its work this year and beyond. The Board, which is headed by Professor George (Ken) Danns of the University of North Georgia and a former lecturer at The University of Guyana (UG), is comprised of distinguished scholars and respected professionals from within and beyond Guyana. UGP was established in 2017 following the signing of a partnership agreement between The University of Guyana and Ian Randle Publishers of Jamaica.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In addition to the local members, the meeting was attended by members from Belize, Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and from New York, Georgia, and Florida in the United States. Members from Nottingham in the United Kingdom, Jamaica, and New York and Connecticut in the USA joined the meeting by Skype. Among the key outcomes of its work, the Board crafted UGP’s Vision, Mission, and What We Do statements to facilitate its operations, and decided on 13 publication themes, namely: Education for Sustainable Development; ICT; Economics, Trade, and Public Policy; Public Health and Policy; Indigenous Knowledge Systems; Integrated Natural Resources Management; Institutions and Society; Food Security; Social Protection and Policy; Climate Change, Energy, and the Green Economy; Globalization, Poverty, and Inequality; Restorative Justice; and Disaster Vulnerability and Resilience. Each theme has sub-themes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In outlining its work plan for 2018 and beyond, the Board agreed to publish four sets of products: books, monographs, scholarly journals, and digital materials. In relation to books, the first is expected to be <em>“Dynamics of Caribbean Diaspora Engagement: People, Policy, Practice,” </em>which is one of the outcomes of the Diaspora Engagement Conference hosted by the University in July 2017. His Excellency President David Granger has agreed to write the book’s Foreword. In addition to manuscripts submitted for consideration, UGP will also solicit works in keeping with its themes and reprint classics of Guyanese history, politics, literature, and other areas.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>As regards journals, it was decided to put on a firm footing the long-standing and respected University of Guyana journal called <em>“Transition,” </em>which has had a chequered publication history. Working Papers and Occasional Papers will be core monograph publications, with “The Renaissance Papers” being a part of the Occasional Papers series. The 2018 Renaissance Papers will publish the lectures delivered at the Distinguished Lectures named for Distinguished Professor CY Thomas, Professor Emeritus Sister Noel Menezes, and Dr Ulric Trotz, as well as the Professorial Lectures delivered by Professors Michael Scott and Paloma Mohamed.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>To boost UG’s work in Biodiversity and its support of the Government’s Green State Initiative, the Board decided to launch a new journal, to be called <em>“The Guyana Shield</em>”, and it established a Task Team to help implement the decision. The Team is headed by Professor Percy Hintzen of Florida International University, and it includes Dr Ulric Trotz of the Caribbean Climate Change Centre, Dr Paulette Bynoe and Mr Alim Hosein from UG, and Dr. David Singh of Conservation International. The journal is expected to be a multilingual publication.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In addition to Vice-Chancellor Ivelaw Griffith and Board Chair George Danns, the meeting was attended by: Ms Christine Randle (Ian Randle Publishers); Professor Percy Hintzen (Florida International University); Dr Paulette Bynoe (UG); Professor Gomathinayagam Subramanian (UG); Mr Alim Hosein (UG); Dr Annette Insanally (UWI Mona); Dr Kimani Nehusi (Temple University); Dr Keith Nurse (UWI Cave Hill); Professor Olajide Oladipo (City University of New York); Dr David Singh (Conservation International); Dr Kelwyn Thomas (Morehouse School of Medicine); Dr Ulric Trotz (Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre); Dr Joseph Tyndall (University of Florida College of Medicine), and Dr Fitzgerald Yaw (UG). While Dr Dennis Canterbury (Eastern Connecticut State University); Professor Stafford Griffith (UWI Mona); Dr Penelope Seibert (University of Nottingham), and Mr Vivian Williams (Vivian Williams and Associates, New York), joined the meeting by Skype.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ian Randle Publishers Managing Director Christine Randle led the meeting’s review of the work done so far on the UGP website, which is expected to be released at the end of February. A competition for a permanent UGP logo will be held soon. As well, Vice-Chancellor Griffith announced that the University of Guyana Press office will be staffed by the Office of Strategic Initiatives, with Ms Danniebelle Mohabir serving as Manager. UGP also has a Management Advisory Board, which is headed by Ambassador Ronald Austin, Director of the Foreign Service Institute. That Board will hold its inaugural meeting soon.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Board members applauded the formation of the Press, with several of them noting that it had long been promised. Indeed, Mr Alim Hosein recalled that his first job at UG in 1984 was to work with a UG Press that never materialised. According to Vice-Chancellor Griffith, “UGP is a historic milestone in the maturation of the University. It is an integral part of Project Renaissance, and it is intended to boost the institution’s research enterprise and overall credibility.” He also noted that the research and publishing pursuits will not be limited to academic staff, but will include post-graduate and undergraduate students, especially those in the undergraduate research programme.</p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\">###</p>\r\n\r\n<h4><strong>UG IN BRIEF </strong></h4>\r\n\r\n<p>With a current enrollment of some 8,000 students, The University of Guyana (UG) has graduated more than 20,000 students who have gone on to successful careers locally, regionally and internationally. The University is also a major contributor to the national economy and to business and industry. Established in 1963 on a part-time basis with shared space at Queens College, UG moved to its own campus at Turkeyen in 1970 and expanded in 2000 with the addition of the Tain Campus. It now offers more than 60 Under-graduate and Post-graduate Programmes including Engineering, Environmental Studies, Forestry, Urban Planning and Management, Business, Entrepreneurship, Tourism Studies, Education, Creative Arts, Economics, Law, Medicine, Optometry and Nursing. Several online programmes are available and UG also offers extra-mural classes at four locations through its Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE). The UG also offers the opportunity for student engagement in debating, sports, and cultural, religious and professional activities.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Public Relations Division<br />\r\nJanuary 29, 2018</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('event', 0, 524, 533, 'und', 0, '<p>Tour our campus facilities and get first-hand information about WHO WE ARE. Visit the booths set up by both&nbsp;private &amp; public sector organisations to learn about career options.</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 526, 535, 'und', 0, '<p>Observing that law enforcement at the border with Venezuela is “very weak”, Major General (Retired) Joseph Singh has warned Guyanese to be cautious when crossing the frontier in search of work or for other purposes.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“I don’t believe that the Venezuelans are paying as much attention on what is happening on the eastern side, they are more concerned about what is happening in Caracas and the urban centers.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“So, the law enforcement on that eastern Venezuelan frontier bordering our western frontier is very weak,” the security expert stated during a public conversation on Guyana’s borders on Thursday evening (February 01, 2018) held at the Theatre Guild.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The event was organised by the University of Guyana and forms part of a series of public discussions on various issues impacting the country.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Singh, a former Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), was at the time responding to a participant’s question on what can be done to ensure tighter security at the borders in light of the recent killing of a Guyanese miner purportedly by the Sindicato gang of Venezuela.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He explained, however, that there is little Guyana can do except to stay alert and to caution the people.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“We have little control over the mining area except to ensure these reports are acted upon and they are publicized… there is little we can do except to warn people to be very conscious of securities at risk when crossing the border,” he stated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Singh acknowledged that there are a lot of entry and exit points along the border for people of both nationalities as he underscored the importance of keeping a consistent watch on those areas.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The people who are crossing the frontier are a source of information and they can identify where the entry points are and exit points [are]. Those are areas we need to keep under constant scrutiny,” the former Chief of Staff explained.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In an earlier presentation on the border controversy with Venezuela, Singh expressed hope that Guyana’s western neighbour does not take actions to compromise the country’s security.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He made reference to the controversy being referred to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and stated: “what I hope is that however long this process takes at the ICJ, that there is some clear commitment that Venezuela will neither compromise our security nor inhibit Guyana’s development.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In his presentation as one of the guest panelists, Singh also touched on the social ramifications of the legal issue deriving from the territorial claims and explained that there are a lot of Guyanese who stand to be affected.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He recalled that in 1993, there were 50,000 Guyanese living in Delta Amacuro, Venezuela. Those numbers have likely increased over the years as there are now third generations residing there.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>On the converse, Singh noted that there are a lot of Venezuelans living in Guyana – many in recent times would have fled the harsh conditions of their country.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In addition to the issue with Venezuela, the event saw presentations on the border controversy with Suriname over the New River Triangle. The other panelists were Ambassadors Keith George and Cedric Joseph.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://newsroom.gy/2018/02/02/guyanese-warned-of-security-risks-when-crossing-guyana-venezuela-border/\">https://newsroom.gy/2018/02/02/guyanese-warned-of-security-risks-when-crossing-guyana-venezuela-border/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 527, 536, 'und', 0, '<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>New administrative rates for the provision of services for prospective and current students and graduates at The University of Guyana were approved at a Special Meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee (F&amp;GPC), on Thursday, June 1, 2017. The F&amp;GPC is a statutory arm of the University Council. The Council itself includes representatives from the University of Guyana Students’ Society (UGSS), the Ministries of Education and Finance, the Private Sector, the Trades Union Council, civic bodies, the campus unions, and the Administration. The immediate past president of the UGSS participated in the meeting that approved the new fees.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Apart from tuition and facilities fees there are other expenses associated with studying at the university. These are commonly called Administrative Fees, and they cover a wide range of services, including fees for processing applications for degree, diploma and certificate programmes (adjusted from $500 to $1000), and late applications (adjusted from $2,000 to $3,000), late registration (adjusted from $10,000 to $12,000), supplemental examinations (adjusted from $1,500 to $5,000). The cost of personal transcripts will move from $3,000 to $5,000.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Some services were entirely free, and now attract a fee. Included here are the re-sit examinations, which now cost $6,000 and letters for students that are used for visa applications and other purposes; they now will attract a charge of $5,000. Importantly, these fees are only payable if use is made of the services to which they relate. Thus, the new administrative fees do not affect all students. Indeed, some fees do not affect current students; they affect graduates seeking transcripts and other services. A significant proportion of the request for transcripts comes from graduates residing abroad, and dispatching those transcripts carries additional costs.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Further, it is to be noted that the administrative fees were last adjusted by the University about a decade ago. A comparative analysis of administrative fees being paid at other local tertiary institutions reveals that the new UG fees are far from exorbitant.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>As adjustments to service fees are being made at The University of Guyana at this juncture, it must be underscored that over the past two years, students at the University have been witnessing numerous improvements that directly enhance their learning environment and educational experience. These include, construction of a modern Student Social Complex that would be commissioned by the start of the 2018- 2019 academic year; air conditioning of the George Walcott Lecture Theatre (GWLT) and the Small Lecture Theatre (SLT) and the installation of new bathrooms in in the GWLT; improved Wi-Fi access at Turkeyen, Tain, and the Dennis Irvine Hall, new PA systems in the lecture halls, and placement of fans in classrooms; extended service hours of the Registry and the Bursary, including opening on Saturdays, and partnering with GTT to offer Mobile Money to enhance services to students; provided G$100,000 each to 13 students (and three staffers) who were fire victims in Cummings Lodge and in Berbice.</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<div>\r\n<p>In addition, the University started the Etiquette Training Programme for Student Leaders, paid for from the Vice-Chancellor’s Fund, with 56 student leaders being the first beneficiaries; created the Undergraduate Research Programme; hosted successful inaugural student research conferences at Turkeyen and Tain, and funded students to travel to attend conferences in Trinidad, Florida, Georgia, and elsewhere.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The University also began processing and dispatching transcripts for current and past students within 72 hours of request, opened a new Registry Building with larger space for the delivery of enhanced student services, and opened a fully-airconditioned new classroom building, called the SEBI Building; began offering Counselling and Medical Services monthly to students at the Berbice Campus and the Institute of Distance and Continuing Education Centers at Anna Regina, New Amsterdam and Linden; and improved the facilities at the Denis Irvine Hall of Residence at Goedverwagting and the New Building Society Hall of Residence at the Turkeyen Campus.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The new administrative fees were approved by the F&amp;GPC last year with the understanding that they would be instituted during the 2017-2018 academic year. It is envisaged that with additional resources, student services at The University of Guyana will be further enhanced during this year and beyond. Vice- Chancellor Professor Ivelaw Griffith noted that “while none of us wish to add to the costs of our students’ educational experiences, the practical reality is that running the university costs, and the government subvention does not-and cannot be expected to-cover all the costs.” He added, “for instance, when the new Student Social Complex is opened later this year, the university will have to bear additional costs of utilities for the facility. Moreover, that is not the only new or renovated facility for which we have to cater.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Finally, it is to be stressed that at no point did the Vice-Chancellor, the Registrar or any other senior official act unilaterally in instituting the revised fees. The new rates initially were to take effect from January 1, 2018, but they were deferred to be effective from March 1, 2018 after formal and extensive engagements with the current UGSS President and Executive Members in a spirit of genuine and transparent collaboration.</p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\">###</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG IN BRIEF</p>\r\n\r\n<p>With a current enrollment of some 8,000 students, The University of Guyana (UG) has graduated more than 20,000 students who have gone on to successful careers locally, regionally and internationally. The University is also a major contributor to the national economy and to business and industry. Established in 1963 on a part-time basis with shared space at Queens College, UG moved to its own campus at Turkeyen in 1970 and expanded in 2000 with the addition of the Tain Campus. It now offers more than 60 Under-graduate and Post-graduate Programmes including Engineering, Environmental Studies, Forestry, Urban Planning and Management, Business, Entrepreneurship, Tourism Studies, Education, Creative Arts, Economics, Law, Medicine, Optometry and Nursing. Several online programmes are available and UG also offers extra-mural classes at four locations through its Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE). The UG also offers the opportunity for student engagement in debating, sports, and cultural, religious and professional activities.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Public Relations Division<br />\r\nFebruary 3, 2018&nbsp;</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('event', 0, 528, 537, 'und', 0, '<p>The Institute for Gender Studies invites you to a viewing and open discussion of the film \"I Am Not Your Negro\", on Thursday February 8, 2018 in The Education Lecturer Theatre (ELT) at 17:30 hrs.</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('event', 0, 530, 539, 'und', 0, '<p>You are invited to attend the “Discussion on the Government of Guyana’s Vision for the Oil and Gas Sector” by Dr. Jan Mangal, Petroleum Advisor to H.E. President David Granger on&nbsp;<strong>Wednesday, February 7, 2018 at 15:00 hrs in the Education Lecture Theatre</strong>.</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 532, 541, 'und', 0, '<p>The active involvement of unions, particularly the teachers union, is critical for true and serious reform of the education sector, according to Coretta McDonald, General Secretary of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU).</p>\r\n\r\n<p>McDonald made the case on Wednesday, during her address at the University of Guyana’s 11th Turkeyen and Tain Talks, which explored the role of education reform for the nation’s development.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The forum, which was held at the Pegasus Hotel under the theme “Education as Freedom: Education Reform and Socio-Economic Development in Guyana,” featured presentations from speakers Professor Michael Scott, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic Engagement at UG; Ed Caesar, Chair of the Education Reform Commission; Petal Jetoo, National Science Coordinator; Christopher Fernandes, Chair of the St Stanislaus College school board; McDonald; David Singh, Vice President of Conservation Inter-national; and Joel Simpson, of the Guyana Equality Forum.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Chief Education Officer Marcel Hutson appeared on behalf of Minister of Education Nicolette Henry.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The presentations made cases for reforms in the management of education, education for sustainable development and reform in regards to the delivery of science and sex education within the education system.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“…It is easy to conclude that education is critical to the sustainable development of our people and this country. It is even more critical when unions…are allowed to be a part of educational reforms at all levels. We cannot talk education reform when we want to sideline the union. We cannot talk education reform when we only have the union at forums just to say that they are present,” McDonald stated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>McDonald’s impassioned speech was packed with examples of how the treatment of teachers and the union that represents them continues to stifle development within the education sector. She spoke of the unavailability of resources in the classroom, the workload often dumped on teachers who are forced to perform tasks in addition to their own, including secretarial duties, and the disrespect often meted out to members of a profession once considered noble.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>McDonald argued for the continuous professional and academic development of teachers, programmes that have “merit”—financial or otherwise, as well as adequate remuneration for teachers. She called for more engagement and the “marrying” of local institutions with tertiary institutions overseas to adopt best practices, revamping of the teachers training programme at the Cyril Potter College of Education, and an update of the policies within the sector, including the code of conduct governing teachers.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“We cannot talk educational reform when there is no serious desire to deal with the professional or the academic aspect of upliftment of the practitioners. We cannot talk educational reform when we keep doing what we’ve been doing since 1923 and we want to do it in 2018. We have to keep moving and adjusting to the time as we go…,” she said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“…If you’re seriously talking education reform, we have to go and relook at a number of the policies we have—many of them are outdated and they need to be divorced and separated…we have to go to the table, put our heads and minds and hearts there, of course with the union involved actively that is, to sit and look at some of those policies that we have with a vision of reviewing and making them relevant… If we’re seriously talking education reform, then the need for all the talking and the writing and everything else must stop now and we should start walking and have the actions happen,” McDonald stated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Tax-free remuneration for teachers</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fernandes’ presentation, like McDonald’s, focused on the areas within the sector that need improvement, particularly in relation to the teaching profession.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Fernandes, a businessman, and Chairman of the St Stanislaus College board, posited that in order to create a well-trained workforce, the teaching profession needs to be made more attractive. His suggestions for achieving this goal included having the remuneration of trained teachers be free of income tax; providing duty-free perks to teachers at the end of a predetermined period of satisfactory service; and possibly having teachers be eligible for a house lot with concessionary low interest financing to construct a two bedroom house. He suggested that this can be limited to $5 million.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He also recommended revisiting the retirement age.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“We cannot longer afford to lose our good experienced teachers who are currently mandated to retire at age 55 since we are unable to replace them with persons of similar competence and experience,” he said</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Our intention therefore to improve the quality of education would be to encourage better quality individuals to the teaching profession by making the profession more attractive. Expose them to active career guidance, allowing for the teacher to regain the respect of the population and students which they once commanded,” Fernandes added.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He also recommended a revision of the management of the ministry, suggesting that there be a “total audit of the management system of the ministry in which the Minister should just be the executive Chairman” and where the “day to day administration needs to be handled by a highly qualified and well trained professional”. He said that this “professional,” the CEO, would be supported by at least two “equally well qualified deputies.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2018/news/stories/02/02/union-input-vital-for-education-sector-reform/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2018/news/stories/02/02/union-input-vital-for-education-sector-reform/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 533, 542, 'und', 0, '<p>Guyana can go the International Court of Justice (ICJ) alone on the border controversy even if Venezuela refuses to participate in that process,&nbsp;according to two leading frontier experts</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Their assurances came against the background of concerns about whether Venezuela first has to agree to have the case taken there.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ambassador Cedric Joseph and former Head of the Frontiers Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Keith George made their positions known at&nbsp;the University of Guyana’s second conversation on Law and Society titled “Guyana’s Borders: Boundaries, Barriers, or Bridges”, held at the Theatre Guild Thursday evening, January 1, 2018.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“If Venezuela says they are not going to the court, I think taking into account whatever case we put up- the history of the Geneva Agreement, we will have to (show) that jurisdiction is acknowledged, we would have to make the first move to the court and see if Venezuela will stay out,” Joseph told the well-attended event.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Between 1899 and the late 1940s, Venezuela had acknowledged the Tribunal Award that had settled the boundary until claims by a junior lawyer in the tribunal that there appeared to have been a conspiracy against that Spanish-speaking nation.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Joseph and George’s position came one day after the Venezuelan government dismissed United Nations Secretary General, Antonio Guterres’ decision to refer the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy to ICJ.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>On whether Venezuela would comply with an ICJ ruling, Joseph noted that in 2016 The Philippines brought the case of the South Sea China against the “powerful” People’s Republic of China who did not participate and “the court went ahead, examined all the documents and issued a substantial judgment in support of the rights of The Philippines” which applied to Malaysia and Vietnam.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Instead, Venezuela reiterated its position that the controversy over whether the 1899 Arbitral Tribunal Award was full, final and perfect should be settled politically through the UN Chief’s Good Officer’s mediation process. On that point, Ambassador Joseph said that is not a political issue and Venezuela would have to “advance legal arguments to establish your case of nullity” before the ICJ- one body established in the UN system to do so.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>While Venezuela is not a party to the ICJ, Ambassador Joseph argued that the 1966 Geneva Agreement refers to judicial settlement in accordance with Article 33 of the United Nations Charter. “The last means in the Geneva Agreement and Article 33 is judicial settlement When you speak about judicial settlement in the United Nations framework, you speak of the body established within the United Nations framework to facilitate a judicial settlement and that is the ICJ,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Legal expert, Neville Bissember Jr; speaking from the floor during the question and answer session, said Article 36&nbsp;(1) and Article 36 (2) of the ICJ requires parties in a dispute to agree to have it settled at that UN judicial body. “It’s a consent regime. You can’t take Venezuela kicking and screaming to the court. It’s a consent regime. I have said that publicly, I have said that privately and nothing in the Geneva Agreement specifies the ICJ,” said the former Guyana Foreign Ministry official. While there are several new issues, he is confident that Guyana’s lawyers would produce the desired results.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ambassador George said Guyana remained hopeful that Venezuela would participate in the judicial process but so far that appeared unlikely. “There are two possible outcomes-, of course, Venezuela joins us we hope and concludes the process and accepts the award; the signals are that, perhaps, that will not happen. If that does not happen, there are some other countries that have gone through the same,” said George, who is now Guyana’s Ambassador to Suriname. He said there have been similar instances such as Cameroon and Nigeria in which the latter for several years had refused to remove its military facilities from Cameroon until several years.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Guyana maintains that it no longer wants to engage in now 51-year old fruitless political talks through the Good Officer’s mediation process, but instead wants a judicial settlement. The UN Secretary General earlier this week decided to refer the controversy to the World Court because there was no significant progress in 2017 the high-level mediation by his Special Representative Dag Nylander.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Former Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Retired Major General Joseph Singh said when he accompanied a United Nations team on a fly-over of the Essequibo Region they were surprised that that area of Guyana was inhabited. He remarked that Guyana’s Social Studies curriculum was not “going in too much depth” to educate students about local history</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He said the protection and preservation of Guyana’s sovereignty was also the responsibility of the education system and ordinary Guyanese who provide information to police and soldiers. “We have produced a lot of stuff which, perhaps, need to be republished….Vigilance- and this is not only the preserve only of the military and the police. We all have to be vigilant. We all have to recognise, read and listen and that includes our diaspora who have access to information which will be very helpful to us and our diplomats,” said Singh who was up to recently Special Assistant to the President of Guyana.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ambassador Joseph remarked that the “serious problem” that would face Venezuelans is how to convince themselves that Essequibo is not theirs when the ICJ rules in Guyana’s favour. “That is a major problem informing, conditioning Venezuela’s response to a definitive settlement. I am not making a judgement of right or wrong. I am stating a fact.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Top current and retired police and military officers, academics and policy makers were among those who attended the public forum.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://demerarawaves.com/2018/02/02/guyana-can-go-to-world-court-alone-on-border-controversy-diplomats/\">http://demerarawaves.com/2018/02/02/guyana-can-go-to-world-court-alone-on-border-controversy-diplomats/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html');
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('news', 0, 534, 543, 'und', 0, '<p>The settlement of the Guyana-Suriname maritime boundary dispute several years ago was an incentive for ExxonMobil to explore and eventually find huge oil fields offshore this country, former Head of the Frontiers Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Keith George said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“If it weren’t for the 2007 Arbitral Award, Liza would not have existed. Liza is just a few kilometres away from where Suriname itself was claiming and Exxon would have been even more fearful because of what Suriname did in June 2000; it used its gunboats,” said George who is currently Guyana’s Ambassador to Suriname.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The dispute was settled by the United Nations Tribunal on the Law of the Sea in 2007, seven years after Surinamese gunboats chased out a Canadian oil exploration rig from an offshore concession that had been awarded by Guyana. In a surprise move that had caught Suriname by surprise after the June 2000 incident, Guyana took its case to the Tribunal in 2004.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Because of the fact that we have a boundary, we can move forward and Suriname can move forward as Caricom (Caribbean Community) partners,” George told a University of Guyana-sponsored&nbsp;conversation on Law and Society titled “Guyana’s Borders: Boundaries, Barriers, or Bridges”, held at the Theatre Guild Thursday evening, January 1, 2018.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile, the Guyana Ambassador to Suriname remarked that despite the outstanding land boundary dispute over the New River Triangle, Guyana is Suriname’s fifth largest trading partner. “Especially in relation to Suriname, our borders are not barriers,” he said. George noted that between 2014 and the first half of 2017, trade between the two countries was valued at an estimated GY$53 billion ; GY$37 billion of which was in Suriname’s favour “so we have a huge deficit in spite of the fact that they are claiming our territory”.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The land boundary dispute is said to be the agenda of a joint commission between the two neighbouring South American countries.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://demerarawaves.com/2018/02/02/guyana-suriname-maritime-boundary-dispute-settlement-influenced-exxonmobils-oil-search/\">http://demerarawaves.com/2018/02/02/guyana-suriname-maritime-boundary-dispute-settlement-influenced-exxonmobils-oil-search/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 535, 544, 'und', 0, '<p class=\"rtecenter\">STUDENTS of the University of Guyana (UG) as well as alumni, staff and members of the Diaspora are being encouraged to share awareness and experience a sense of pride for their university by equipping themselves with UG-branded items. These items include t-shirts, bags, ties, caps, water bottles, mugs, pens and many more to be introduced.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to the Business Development Manager of the Office of Strategic Initiatives at the University, Caroline English, in addition to the groups previously mentioned, the university wants to involve other Guyanese. “We want, if possible, every individual in Guyana to have a branded UG item,” she said. “We want Guyanese to become aware…it’s creating a sense of ownership within Guyanese and a pride for their university.”</p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"rtecenter\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"/sites/default/files/gallery/UoG-2-640x420.jpg\" /></div>\r\n\r\n<p>One of the branded items is the Guyanese-invented prolonged mug, by Professor Suresh Narine, which reduces the temperature of too-hot beverages within minutes to recommended temperatures preventing possible developments of cancer of the esophagus. Narine’s amazing invention has helped him cop the Anthony N. Sabga Caribbean Award for Excellence in Science and Technology in 2015.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>These and other items are available at the university’s Campus Store and other outlets such as Giftland Mall, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, and Metro on Quamina Street and in New Amsterdam.<br />\r\nSpeaking to two students of the Faculty of Forestry, they gave their take on the newly introduced items.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“It’s nice that UG’s publishing the logos on these items now so that people can know more about the university,” commented, Paul White, who added that he would definitely utilise the items.<br />\r\nMeanwhile, his friend, Obeki Sobers said: “I think it’s great to have this product available for the students. Some of our classes are at eight in morning so we can use [the mugs] to put coffee or water.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Making a final call to the public, English remarked: “To the alumni: You’ve been here. Continue to carry the UG banner; to the Diaspora: recognise that we’re here and support us and to UG students, staff and fellow Guyanese: own the University of Guyana. It belongs to us as Guyanese. Feel a sense of pride in UG, get one of their branded items!”</p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\"><img alt=\"\" src=\"/sites/default/files/gallery/UoG-3-696x456.jpg\" /></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://guyanachronicle.com/2018/02/02/ug-pride\">http://guyanachronicle.com/2018/02/02/ug-pride</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'full_html'),
('news', 0, 536, 545, 'und', 0, '<p>RETIRED Major-General Joe Singh said Guyanese near and far should be vigilant in defence of Guyana’s territorial integrity, noting that vigilance is not reserved only for the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the Guyana Police Force (GPF).</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“This is not reserved only for the military and the police, we all have to be vigilant. We all have to recognise, read and listen, and that includes our diaspora who have access to information which may be very helpful to us and our diplomats,” he said. At the time, the former Army Chief-of-Staff was delivering remarks alongside Ambassador to Suriname, Keith George and Ambassador Cedric Joseph at the University of Guyana’s second conversation on Law and Society, titled “Guyana’s Borders: Boundaries, Barriers, or Bridges” at Theatre Guild Thursday evening.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The retired Major-General recalled that in the past, the military and the police had developed linkages with the pork-knockers, loggers and even fishermen who had frequented the country’s borders.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Most of our information on which we then developed our intelligence was provided by ordinary citizens who had a very patriotic fervour, saying literally not a blade of grass,” he posited.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Additionally, the former army Chief-of-Staff said as Guyana moves to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to resolve the territorial controversy with Venezuela, major emphasis should be placed on educating the populace.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>It is no secret that Venezuelans have been falsely indoctrinated into believing that Essequibo forms of part of their country. “We have produced a lot of stuff which perhaps need to be republished. I remember very little books produced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, speeches by Sir Shridath Ramphal, research on Ankoko Island… So we need to revive and resuscitate that form of education,” Singh told his audience.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile, in a statement on Friday, Ambassador Emeritus, Dr.Odeen Ishmael, alluded to the fact that Venezuela’s demand has grown progressively over the years.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“It requested before the arbitral tribunal all the territory west of the Essequibo River with the exception of an area marked by a line stretching from the mouth of the Moruca River to the junction of the Mazaruni and the Essequibo. The claim also included the Essequibo watershed south of the junction of the Essequibo and the Rupununi rivers.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Today,the claim has extended to all territory west of the Essequibo River,including the islands in the river. It has also been expanded to include Guyana’s maritime region rich with oil deposits,” Dr. Ishmael explained.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He said it is no secret that Venezuela seized Guyana’s half of the border Ankoko Island and its armed gunboats brazenly venture into Guyana’s section of the Cuyuni River.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>IDEAL VENUE&nbsp;</strong><br />\r\nBut in all of its actions, Venezuela has failed to adequately defend its position that the 1899 Arbitral Award is null and void. According to him, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is an ideal venue for Venezuela to make its argument.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>United Nations Secretary-General (UNSG) Antonio Guterres has referred the Guyana/Venezuela territorial controversy to the ICJ, but the Spanish-speaking nation has rejected the decision, holding fast to its position that the Good Offices process should be allowed to continue, having commenced since 1990. Ambassador Ishmael said Venezuela’s position on the UNSG decision comes as no surprise.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“When the UNSG announced his proposal in December 2016, the Venezuelan Government at first expressed its satisfaction, but within a month it backtracked and insisted on the continuation of the Good Offices process, which had failed to produce any tangible forward momentum for the past quarter of a century. Guyana, since 2014, had informed the UNSG of its decision to abandon the Good Offices process and urged the involvement of the ICJ—a proposal now opposed by Venezuela. Therefore, that country’s recent statement on January 31 has not come as a surprise to anyone,” he explained.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>It was pointed out that the 1966 Geneva Agreement conferred upon the secretary-general the power and responsibility to choose a means of peaceful settlement from among those contemplated in Article 33 of the Charter of the United Nations. The Geneva Agreement,signed by the Venezuela, British and Guyana Governments, also provides that if the means so chosen does not lead to a solution of the controversy, the secretary-general will choose another means of settlement. In this respect, the last means in Article 33 is judicial settlement.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Stating that the member states of the United Nations are no doubt hoping for a judicial solution, he said it is possible that their quiet diplomacy can help to propel Venezuela to work along with Guyana towards this direction.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Artilce adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://guyanachronicle.com/2018/02/03/get-involved\">https://guyanachronicle.com/2018/02/03/get-involved</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 537, 546, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana should be commended for creating the space to address topics relevant to the development of the country through its Turkeyen and Tain Talks series. A recently concluded forum addressed the theme ‘Education as Freedom, Education Reform and Socio-economic Development in Guyana’ from a number of diverse and highly relevant perspectives. On a more philosophical level, it raised questions regarding how we as a people define education and the role it should serve within our society.&nbsp; It captured the essence of a long-standing debate between the more utilitarian approach to education, whereby education, nation building and human capital are intricately linked concepts, diametrically opposed to the ideas of progressivism, humanism and democratic education.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>It highlighted the emancipative potential inherent in educational pursuits on both an individual and communal level. It also probed the questions of who should be the individuals in authority to make key education decisions such as defining the content of our education or how education services and resources should be distributed. On a more practical level, I believe that the forum sought to examine the extent of progress we have made in shaping and defining an education system that is relevant to the Guyana we know in 2018 and beyond. It raises the fundamental questions of, to what extent and in what ways has education served to liberate us as a people from the pre-existing oppressive system and who is the Guyanese the education system should be producing?</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Solid arguments can be made that we have done little to free ourselves from the vestiges of the colonial education structures that we inherited over half a century ago.&nbsp; An analysis of various structural and education delivery dimensions of the system would bear this out.&nbsp; Structurally, for the most part, we have retained the highly elitist and delimiting education system we inherited. We have been successful in significantly increasing access to education at the primary and secondary levels. Quality education has been highly elusive, however, with the number of students mastering the expectations at the various levels progressively decreasing as each cohort moves to the higher levels of the system. A proper analysis would show that as they ascend to the critical secondary level only about thirty percent matriculate, and less than half of those actually access tertiary level education. Such a pyramid does not provide equal opportunities for all students to attain their full potential. It gives credence to the mindset that the school one attends is as much a determinant of one’s potential success as it was fifty years ago.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In addition, our system is rigid and narrow in many ways. It provides few opportunities for second chances or re-entry, all realities that run counter to the concept of education as freedom. Until a few years ago, there was such blind adherence to outdated rules that when pupils who would be above age eleven by grade six were discovered in the system they were skipped a grade or two to ensure they wrote the eleven-plus examination at the ‘right age’–damning them to sure failure. Students who attain the age of sixteen are still forced out of the secondary system regardless of their level of attainment and degree of competence as per similar archaic rules. There is no facility for students to re-enter the system to rewrite one or two subjects they might have failed.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>There are few second-chance options for adults or dropouts who might not have had the best initial experience and wish to re-enter the system. Which institution in Guyana allows you the freedom to come as you are regardless of qualifications with the intent of building the capacity of the masses for a more productive citizenry? Education as freedom also relates to what it is we learn and how we learn it.&nbsp; Theorists have argued that the content of our education system is the same outmoded irrelevant colonial product.&nbsp; For the most part, we all learned the same things in our day the same way pupils do today, regardless of the prevailing concepts of relevance, critical and divergent thinking and problem solving.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In secondary schools spread across this country all of the students in any given class go through the identical curriculum at the same rate with little accommodation of exceptionality at either end of the continuum.&nbsp; We have had students, in our system, who by grade nine had excelled beyond the CSEC expectations in particular subjects; but who was forced to progress at the same rate of their counterparts. One student was writing his own mathematics equations by sixth form to challenge himself since there was nothing new his teachers could teach him.&nbsp; Both our gifted and students with learning disabilities suffer similar faiths of unfulfilled potential.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>As it relates to relevance, we must investigate why the reforms aimed at through Community High and Multilateral schools failed.&nbsp; There are key lessons to be learned since the evidence shows that we have reverted to preexisting practices and our children are overwhelmingly opting to specialise in highly Westernized, service oriented pursuits that have little relevance or viability within our local context. We must ask ourselves, how can we create more balance in the system by improving the quality of the available options? For the most part, the highly academic CSEC route is the only fully developed pathway within the education system in Guyana, despite the value and relevance of technical and vocational education.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The reality is that our freedoms are curtailed in many ways both by the limited available options and the rules that govern the system. The majority of our students are pressured into ‘streams’ at age fifteen that ultimately force them to specialize, limiting their study options and potential choices later in life. As an example, the need to declare a major upon entry to the University and the absence of the flexibility to devise special majors that might combine different areas of pursuit can be likened to academic tyranny. The interests and talents of the average sixteen or seventeen year old Guyanese are so varied and complex that we do them a disservice in the way we rigidly structure the menu of available options.&nbsp; At the same time, those who are financially able or fortunate enough, opt to attend external liberal arts institutions that afford them the freedom to wade through those varied talents to find their “true calling’ and fulfill their innate potential.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Such is the desirable nature of Education as Freedom. The freedoms alluded to above must be afforded in equal measure to every citizen of our country and should in no way be determined by economics or other factors.&nbsp; It is therefore incumbent on us, within our respective contexts, to examine and address these issues. This forum has opened the door to question the extent to which the system creates the enabling environment within which a broader cross-section of citizens have the opportunity to contribute to shaping and defining our education structures, thereby ensuring they reflect the full extent of our diverse social and other contemporary realities.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The University of Guyana is ideally positioned to lend its voice but must be supported by other stakeholders in answering the question: Who is the Guyanese the education system should produce? If the Ideal Caribbean Person, as defined by CARICOM, is one who among other things: “Demonstrates multiple literacies, independent and critical thinking, questions the beliefs and practices of the past and present and brings this to bear on the innovative application of science and technology and to problem solving; values and displays the creative imagination in its various manifestations and nurtures its development in the economic and entrepreneurial spheres and in all other areas of life”; we are duty bound to ensure that education affords all the freedom to self-actualise.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2018/02/04/education-as-freedom/\">https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2018/02/04/education-as-freedom/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 538, 547, 'und', 0, '<p>The Georgetown Cricket Association GCA/New Building Society (NBS) second division competition resumed yesterday at the Muslim Youth Organization (MYO) ground with the University Of Guyana (UG) schooling Ace Warriors in the 40-overs-a-side contest despite Mortland Ward’s heroics.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ace Warriors, won the toss, elected to bat and stumbled to post a meagre 117 being all out in the 26th over.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Opener Roger Aarons was the first to go without scoring while Ward scored a quick fire 23 before he too departed off of Omesh Dhanram. Clayton Halley also scored 23 while Davendra Lall was the only other batsman to reach double figures. Dennis Haywood was the pick of the bowlers accounting for four wickets in his 4.2 overs that went for just 12 runs while the other four bowlers claimed one a piece.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In the UG innings, Dwayne Dodson was the first to fall with the score on seven and his contribution one. Soon after D. George followed for four and Dhanram (9) was trapped lbw by Ward who had at that time had accounted for all three wickets to fall, with UG, 43-3.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ward struck once more after Heron Siwnarine had struck two boundaries on the small ground by bowling a wide delivery which Siwnarine flashed at and smart work from the wicketkeeper who noticed Siwnarine straying from his crease had him stumped for eight.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>However, Lindon Austin joined opener M Persaud and the pair dug deep to put on a 52-run partnership. Persaud fell to a clumsy shot and was bowled by Lall after scoring 45 runs including seven fours and a massive six.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>UG were just 10 runs from victory when new man at the crease Suresh Dhani was bowled trying to heave a delivery from Lall over mid-wicket but Austin along with Ershaud Alli saw UG cross the line on 19 and one respectively.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Ward was the chief destroyer bagging figures 4-33.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2018/sports/02/04/ug-schools-ace-warriors/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2018/sports/02/04/ug-schools-ace-warriors/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 539, 548, 'und', 0, '<p>The Ministry of Education’s Code of Conduct for teachers should be amended to prohibit discrimination against youth on the grounds of sexual orientation, Director of the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD) Joel Simpson has recommended.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Simpson was at the time offering suggestions on how to decrease the high school dropout rate within the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community, during a presentation at the University of Guyana’s latest Turkeyen and Tain Talks, held last Wednesday at the Pegasus Hotel.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The theme for the event was “Education as Freedom: Education Reform and Socio-Economic Development in Guyana.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Simpson, who represented the Guyana Equa-lity Forum, which is a civil society network of 21 local groups working to achieve equal rights and justice for Guyanese, focused on policies that could decrease the number of LGBT youth and teenaged mothers who are subjected to bullying and who are forced out of the education system annually.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In addressing the former, Simpson recommended a widening of the Ministry of Education’s Code of Conduct for Teachers, which already states that teachers cannot discriminate on the grounds of ability, race, colour or creed.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Simpson stated that discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation exists not only among peers, but in teacher-student relationships, and said that the trend of behaviour has been documented by SASOD and the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU).</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He mentioned that these behaviours are usually displayed in the plain view of witnesses.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The Ministry of Education’s policy on their website, titled “Code of Conduct for Teachers,” under Part D, ‘Commitment to Students,’ states: “Teachers cannot discriminate on the grounds of ability, race, colour or creed.” It does not have any protective clause in it for LGBT students. While no laws or policies exist that specifically prevent LGBT persons from accessing education, many LGBT Guyanese reportedly leave the education system early due to homophobic and transphobic bullying and discrimination, thereby preventing them from practically realising their right to education,” he stated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Reintegration of school-aged mothers</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Additionally, Simpson directed the audience to the fact that Guyana holds the second highest rate of teenaged pregnancy in the Latin America and the Caribbean region. It is documented that 97 out of every 1,000 girls between 15 and 19 years old give birth.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Despite this, the government of Guyana is yet to introduce a comprehensive reintegration policy for pregnant and parenting adolescent girls to be able to continue their secondary education in public schools,” he noted.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He added that adolescent mothers are often denied their right to education and fall out of the system as a result.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Simpson recommended that Guyana look to Jamaica for an example of how to tackle this issue, while pointing to the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation Programme (WCJF) for Adolescent Mothers, which was established as a result of the country’s high teenage pregnancy rate at the time.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He related that the centre offers support services, which include counselling for school-aged mothers, the fathers of their</p>\r\n\r\n<p>children, their parents and even guardians; family planning; time management; and budgeting.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“WCJF’s Programme for Adolescent Mothers encourages the continued education of pregnant or lactating girls under the age of 17 years. The goals are for teen mothers to return to school after the birth of their babies, to delay a second pregnancy until their professional goals are achieved, and to raise the employment potential of young mothers so that they have a viable alternative to depending on men for support,” Simpson related.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Inadequate sex education</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile, Simpson criticized the public sex education programme, stating that it lacks relevance, denies sexual and reproductive health information and services and is inadequate for meeting the needs of adolescents.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“GRPA [Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association] evaluations of the publicly-funded and implemented abstinence-only programme, commonly known as the Health and Family Life Education (HFLE) found that it ignores young people’s basic right to the highest attainable standard of health by denying them critical life-saving information and the fundamental public health principle of accurate, balanced sex education,” he related.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Simpson said that research done by the GRPA shows that comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) can actually delay the onset of sexual activity, reduce risky sexual behaviour and the number of sexual partners and increase responsible behavior, particularly when it came to protecting against sexually-transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancies.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“Importantly, the evidence shows youth who receive CSE are not more likely to become sexually active, increase sexual activity, or experience negative sexual health outcomes contrary to what others may believe. Also, research by the youth-led, international organisation Advocates for Youth shows that CSE programmes do not encourage teens to start having sexual intercourse, do not increase the frequency with which teens have intercourse, and do not increase the number of a teen’s sexual partners,” he stated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He added that evaluations of HFLE on the other hand showed that the programme “ignores young people’s basic human right to the highest attainable standard of health by denying them critical life-saving information and the fundamental public health principle of accurate, balanced sex education.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.stabroeknews.com/2018/news/stories/02/04/activist-calls-for-teachers-code-to-prohibit-lgbt-discrimination/\">https://www.stabroeknews.com/2018/news/stories/02/04/activist-calls-for-teachers-code-to-prohibit-lgbt-discrimination/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 540, 549, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana (UG) is in the process of establishing a Petroleum Department as well as a Food and Nutrition Institute.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Ivelaw Griffith said the new facilities are timely since Guyana is becoming an oil producing nation but at the same time, needs to improve its capacity in the traditional economic sector of agriculture.&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Professor Griffith announced on the final day of the GIPEX Summit that a study is underway to develop a Department of Petroleum Engineering.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“We have a working group helping to figure out the varying contributing elements to that. What kind of faculty do we need, what will be the curriculum, what are the lab equipment we might need, what are the linkages with industry, who might we have on the advisory board for that department,” he explained.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>According to the University’s Vice-Chancellor, as Guyana becomes an oil-producing nation, its students need access to training in all aspects of the industry.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In this regard, Professor Griffith said the University is conducting a gap analysis to determine other areas that need improvement.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The analysis we’re doing is with a view of the whole university enterprise. What is it we need to do better to prepare in law, what is it needs to be better prepared to do in the social sciences, what is under occupational health, in the medical field, what is it we need to do in nursing. We’re&nbsp;taking a comprehensive approach to the energy venture and adventure,” he stated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Vice-Chancellor cautioned that oil and gas should not consume all of the peoples’ energy since Guyana is and will remain an agriculture-based society.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>As such, he said efforts are underway to launch a Food and Nutrition Institute on World Food Day on October 16, 2018.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) had donated US$30,000 to the University of Guyana to conduct a feasibility study for the establishment of the institute.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Meanwhile, Professor Griffith reiterated that the University of Guyana stands ready to play a leading role in the country’s development.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://newsroom.gy/2018/02/09/petroleum-dept-food-institute-for-ug/\">https://newsroom.gy/2018/02/09/petroleum-dept-food-institute-for-ug/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 541, 550, 'und', 0, '<p>Advisor to President David Granger on Petroleum, Dr. Jan Mangal has outlined the power of the people to make their voices heard about what is taking place in the oil and gas sector, especially as it relates to the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) signed between the Government and ExxonMobil.&nbsp;Dr. Mangal made the declaration in response to questions from students of the University of Guyana following an in-depth presentation on the Government of Guyana\'s Vision for the Oil and Gas Sector.&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“What you will find is that oil companies… and this is not looking at Guyana, are very powerful, and experts in everything they do. They know how to influence Governments to a T. However, they can\'t influence people. The only thing they are scared of are people. That\'s why it is important for Guyanese to have an intelligent debate,” Dr. Mangal stated.&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Responding to several questions which highlighted a number of shortcomings in the PSA, Mangal stated that a lot of people in Guyana are questioning who negotiated on Guyana\'s behalf.&nbsp;The PSA was released in December, and since then there have been daily debates about the provisions of the contract, with growing concern that Guyana did not get a fair deal. “What I would say is, let\'s see how the public debate goes on over the next couple of months,” Mangal noted.<br />\r\n<br />\r\nThe Presidential advisor is on record, pointing out that zero taxes on oil and the two percent royalties in the PSA is not the international norm for oil agreements.&nbsp;“We can all sit down and talk about it. The way I would be more happy and you would be more happy as well, is if a process was followed and we knew who was involved, and we knew their competencies and their expertise… and they were respected… and that they went out there to bat for Guyana and they did the best they could,” Mangal pointed out.&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<p>ExxonMobil is a multinational corporation with powerful reach which was run for a number of years by Rex Tillerson, the current United States Secretary of State.&nbsp;Mangal has pointed out that regardless of how powerful the company is, the people\'s view will weigh on the decision makers of the country.&nbsp;Dr. Mangal is a Guyanese who has spent 18 years in the industry, 13 of them with Chevron working on major oil and gas projects in the United States, West Africa and Asia.&nbsp;Amid growing calls for the contract to be renegotiated, Dr. Mangal noted that contracts should always be reviewed as new information becomes&nbsp;available.&nbsp;<br />\r\n<br />\r\n“Contracts are always changed. A contract is an agreement between two people. Both parties need to be comfortable. If one party becomes really uncomfortable it will be changed,” Dr. Mangal pointed out.&nbsp; He stated that the question of renegotiating the contract is one that the people of Guyana must answer.&nbsp;According to Dr. Mangal, the focus last year was to get the ExxonMobil contract released to the public. He expressed his happiness that the information is out there and people are doing the analysis for themselves.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://www.petroleumworld.com/story18020905.htm\">http://www.petroleumworld.com/story18020905.htm</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 542, 551, 'und', 0, '<p>Guyana’s two percent royalty on earnings from ExxonMobil’s oil sales is low compared to global standards, raising concerns about whether there was transparency about the negotiating system,&nbsp; Dr. Jan Mangal, Petroleum Advisor to President David Granger said Wednesday.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“What we can do is look at what are the international norms. Royalty, when you look around, is more between ten and twenty percent, not two percent,” Dr. Mangal told a discussion&nbsp; on the Government of Guyana’s Vision for the Oil and Gas Sector held at the University of Guyana’s Education Lecture Theatre.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He also noted that the tax is usually between 20 percent and 30 percent or more. Mangal remarked that the 50-50 percent profit share is “not bad”. However, the zero tax and two percent royalty that is in Guyana’s agreement has not gone down well with the advisor.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Asked whether the contract should be renegotiated, he said that was a question for Guyana to answer but he for the time being would withhold his view. “I am not at a stage yet where I am sharing that view publicly but it is under discussion,” he said. With “a lot of suspicion” still around about the oil sector, he said civil society and the wider Guyanese community need to develop greater trust of government and their representatives.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>On the issue of whether the contract should not only be reviewed but also amended, the Petroleum expert said both contracting parties need to be comfortable. “if one party becomes really uncomfortable, it will change. Guyana is a sovereign country,” he said. At the same time he said policymakers would have to examine the trade-offs and be careful about scaring away investors. “Guyana has to be careful because that could be the perception, will be the perception but I don’t think it’s black and white. We have to be careful not to simplify too much and it’s not black and white and there could be a role for the grey area in the middle,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mangal said he was pushing for experts from the Inter-American Development Bank and the International Monetary Fund and other agencies to conduct a “thorough a review of the contract” and for government to decide what it would do with the results.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>While Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman continues to stress the benefits in the 2017 agreement with&nbsp; ExxonMobil&nbsp;when one considers the political, enormous financial and security risks facing that company, Mangal said Guyanese would be happier if there was transparency about the negotiating system. “The way I would be happy and you would probably be happy as well is if a process was followed&nbsp; and you knew who was involved and we knew their competencies and their expertise and they were respected did they go out there and bat for Guyana and they did they best they could but I think a lot of people in Guyana are questioning that,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mangal noted that Guyana’s oil reserves discovered so far are of a very high quality and requires less processing. “I know it’s light oil which means it’s good oil and that’s a huge factor,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Presidential Advisor, whose latest short-term contract ends in March 2018, said generally oil companies are “very powerful and experts in everything they do and they know how to influence governments to a ‘T\'” but they could buckle under intense public pressure. “However, they can’t influence people. The only thing they are scared of is people so that’s why it’s important for Guyanese to have intelligent debate,” he said. At the same time, he cautioned against scaring away investors.&nbsp;After pushing for the ExxonMobil contract to be released, he welcomed the “brilliant analysis” that is leading to questions being asked.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mangal promised to make his views known more frankly in the public in the coming months</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Presidential Advisor expressed grave concern about the fact that, based on the 1999 agreement and the new 2017 deal, ExxonMobil is controlling the entire Stabroek Block of about 600 blocks or 10 times more than what Guyana’s laws allow. “It is not good for one company owning too much of your acreage. Exxon already owns over fifty percent of the acreage in Guyana. That’s not good for Guyana,” he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mangal argued that countries should benefit from diversity and competition in its acreage from companies from several parts of the world such as Europe and South America. “Oil is high-stakes, governments, companies they will do things at a high level,” he said. He recommended that Guyana examines how the acreage is allocated for the long term.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The Presidential Advisor warned against Guyana neglecting its agricultural sector, and instead recommended that a lot of the oil revenues be ploughed into that sector as well as developing physical infrastructure and the social sectors.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://demerarawaves.com/2018/02/07/president-grangers-petroleum-advisor-criticizes-exxonmobils-low-royalty-payment-control-of-large-concession/\">http://demerarawaves.com/2018/02/07/president-grangers-petroleum-advisor-criticizes-exxonmobils-low-royalty-payment-control-of-large-concession/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 543, 552, 'und', 0, '<p>About five hours after Dr. Jan Mangal, Petroleum Advisor to President David Granger delivered a number of hard-hitting criticisms of the controversial ExxonMobil contract, government sought to dissociate itself from his positions.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“The Ministry of the Presidency puts on record that Dr. Jan Mangal, Presidential Advisor on Petroleum, is not authorised to speak on behalf of His Excellency, President David Granger or the Government of Guyana,” the Ministry of the Presidency said in a one-line statement issued at 9:50 PM.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mangal delivered his presentation between 3 PM and shortly after 5 PM in his capacity as Presidential Advisor on Petroleum as was stated on the University of Guyana programme for its “Discussion on the Government of Guyana’s Vision for the Oil and Gas Sector”. He was introduced by that designation and at no time did he say whether or not he was speaking in his private or official capacity.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He stopped short of saying whether or not he would like to see the contract revised, opting only to remark that he would make known his views known in the coming weeks.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mangal’s latest short-term contract expires in March.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the forum, Mangal said the two percent royalty that Guyana secured from ExxonMobil in the 2017 Production Sharing Agreement was way below the globally accepted norms of between 10 and 20 percent. No tax on oil revenues did not find favour with Mangal who has worked in several oil producing nations.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He, however, welcomed the 50-50 percent split in profit oil.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Taking credit for pushing for the release of the ExxonMobil contract in December 2017, Mangal said that was needed to stimulate public debate so that civil society and the wider Guyanese community could determine whether it is a good or bad deal.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Mangal said he was also behind efforts to have the contract reviewed by experts from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to review contract.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>At the same time, he cautioned against amending the contract because that could send a bad signal to investors.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman has repeatedly defended the contract, saying that previously there were no provisions for funding training and corporate social responsibility and there was no real royalty. He said the contract takes into consideration the political, financial and border-security related risks associated with the Guyana-Venezuela boundary controversy.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Guyana begins commercial oil production from the Liza well at a rate of 120,000 barrels per day. ExxonMobil is also eyeing the possibility of increasing its daily production soon after with the addition of another Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://demerarawaves.com/2018/02/07/ministry-of-the-presidency-distances-govt-from-petroleum-advisors-criticisms-of-exxonmobil-contract/\">http://demerarawaves.com/2018/02/07/ministry-of-the-presidency-distances-govt-from-petroleum-advisors-criticisms-of-exxonmobil-contract/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 544, 553, 'und', 0, '<p>Some University of Guyana graduates and others in the disciplines of technology, business and other fields of study will cash in big time as a world renowned firm has shown interest to not only hire them, but also to prepare them for the upcoming oil and gas industry. This announcement was made by VICE Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\r\n<iframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https://www.youtube.com/embed/4Okkd9hvZ9Q\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\" allowfullscreen></iframe>', '', 'full_html'),
('event', 0, 545, 554, 'und', 0, '<p class=\"rtecenter\">The Belt and Road Initiative of China</p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\">His Excellency Mr Cui Jianchun Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipoteniary of The People\'s Republic of China to the Cooperative Republic of Guyana&nbsp;</p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\">Tuesday, February 27, 2018</p>\r\n\r\n<p class=\"rtecenter\">Education Lecture Theatre, University of Guyana Turkeyen Campus.</p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 546, 555, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana is keen to widen its educational offers to include the oil and gas sector, but in this pursuit Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith, has warned that there is a role for the university in maintaining Guyana’s food security. “We also recognize that we cannot neglect who we essentially are,” Professor Griffith told students at oil and gas presentation held on the university’s Turkeyen campus on Wednesday last.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He added, “We are an agricultural society and we will not do ourselves and prosperity well to neglect the agriculture sector.” According to Prof. Griffith, a feasibility team to look at establishing a food and nutrition institute at the university has been established. The team met for the first time in January to start the journey of ensuring that in partnership with other entities in Guyana and internationally, the university plays a vital role in food security.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>One of the international agencies supporting the initiative is the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) which has provided US$5000 to start the study. Prof. Griffith noted that the university wants to ensure that connectivity with natural science, agriculture, earth and environmental science and social science, will enable partnerships with National Agricultural Research &amp; Extension Institute (NAREI), Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA), Ministry of Education and public health. “We don’t neglect food security, especially since there is an opportunity for Guyana, not only in regard to the Caribbean, but in regard to being part of South America where we have some competitive advantage, but we need to stop viewing it as potential and we need to actualize it,” Prof. Griffith stated.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>In relation to preparing the University for the oil and gas sector, Prof. Griffith said that they are ramping up what is being done across all faculties. He suggested changing the name of the faculty of technology while still catering for current programmes such as industrial and mechanical engineering. “Whether you want to do simply petroleum engineering or as we have committed to not neglecting mechanical, electrical and civil, we’ve got to do better physics, we got to do better chemistry, we got to do better math. The investments, we are going to argue, will have to do the whole of the university,” Prof. Griffith pointed out.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He outlined that the university is being proactive in its approach to the oil and gas sector by reaching out to other entities to establish partnerships. Prof. Griffith stated that he sent a member of the law department to an oil and gas seminar last year. In addition, last year, teams were sent to the University of Alberta, Canada and the University of the West Indies, Trinidad campus. “We cannot wait until all is available here for us to do what we need to do. We’ve got to partner. We have to develop and be prepared to offer relevant courses in the oil and gas industry,” Prof. Griffith stated. There are plans to engage experts in the oil and gas industry for a series of talks dubbed, Campus Conversations, which will aim to educate students and faculty members on the emerging sector.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>NOTE: The grant from the FAO for the feasibility study is US $50, 000 and not US $5,000</strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2018/02/13/dont-neglect-food-security-in-pursuit-of-oil-ug-vice-chancellor/\">https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2018/02/13/dont-neglect-food-security-in-pursuit-of-oil-ug-vice-chancellor/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html'),
('news', 0, 547, 556, 'und', 0, '<p>The University of Guyana (UG) is appealing for bigger investments in order to effectively ‘prepare thousands of Guyanese’ for the country’s emerging Oil and Gas (O&amp;G) sector.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>So says the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith, who this past week lamented the state of affairs, as he appealed to the corporate community, including oil companies, civil society and government for increased investments in the tertiary institution.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>“I want to recommend that you embrace the proposition that we have a University of Guyana that we are going to have to invest in appropriately; we being the society, we being the partners at the international level, who think, who are convinced that this is a worthy journey on which to enjoin,” Professor Griffith said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The University Administrator was at the time addressing the Guyana International Petroleum Exhibition and Summit (GIPEX) held at the Marriott Hotel from February 7 to 9.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>He was speaking to the institution’s preparations, in order to meet the projected skills demand as a result of the emerging industry and was adamant the University is not going to be able to “make the efforts and have the outcomes (desired), if we don’t want to invest.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Investment, he proffered, “needs to come from the government of Guyana, it needs to come from the industry partners, it needs to come from the citizenry.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Energy Investment Plan</strong></p>\r\n\r\n<p>He told the industry executives, delegates and government representatives at GIPEX 2018, “in context of (UG) just sitting there, we got to figure out what the investment will be to make these all happen.”</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The University currently has a team working on putting together an energy investment plan and a number of industry partners have already begun collaborating with the University, he said.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Professor Griffith identified Schlumberger, Haliburton, BakerHughes (a GE Company), ExxonMobil, and TechnipFMC – having already employed 10 University Graduates.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>The University Vice Chancellor disclosed too that TechnipFMC has committed to directly employing from UG 20 more specialized persons by year-end.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>That ExxonMobil Tier I contractor last year contacted the University to recruit the engineers—six mechanical, two electrical and two civil engineers.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Each of the contracted University graduates has since been sent to Brazil by TechnipFMC for further training.</p>\r\n\r\n<p>Article adapted from:&nbsp;<u><a href=\"http://oilnow.gy/news/bigger-investments-guyana-highest-learning-institution-needed-vc/\">http://oilnow.gy/news/bigger-investments-guyana-highest-learning-institution-needed-vc/</a></u></p>\r\n', '', 'filtered_html');
