Home Features Region 2 top performers reflect on journey to NGSA 2024
– eye careers in journalism, engineering & fashion designing, among others
By Raywattie Deonarine
In the heart of Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), a group of remarkable young students has distinguished themselves by excelling in the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) 2024. These bright minds, hailing from various communities, have not only topped Region Two, but also emerged as some of the country’s top performers. Their stories of dedication, resilience, and unwavering support from their families and teachers are truly inspirational.
Roshine Deonarine: A Journey of perseverance
Roshine Deonarine of Onderneeming Sandpit, known for her quiet and easygoing nature, is Region Two’s top student with 502.1 marks. Preferring solitude, she often finds comfort in her own little world.
Her educational journey began at Maria’s Lodge Nursery School, followed by Suddie Primary School, where she studied from Grades 1 to 5.
Recognizing the need for an environment better suited to her academic growth, her parents transferred her to Huis’t Dieren Primary School. This change marked a turning point in her academic career, as she consistently emerged as a top performer.
Deonarine’s aspirations extend beyond her current achievements; her ultimate career goal is to become a journalist. This ambition reflects her desire to explore the world, tell compelling stories, and perhaps bring light to untold narratives. However, the journey toward this goal has not been without its challenges.
Preparing for the NGSA, a pivotal examination in the Guyanese education system that determines secondary school placement, has been a significant hurdle. The rigorous preparation for the NGSA has been a source of considerable stress for Deonarine. The pressure of extra lessons and late-night studying often left her feeling exhausted and overwhelmed, sometimes to the point of tears and resistance to attending classes.
Despite these difficulties, Roshine demonstrated remarkable determination and resilience. Her perseverance, fuelled by her dream of becoming a top performer, kept her pushing forward through the most trying times.
Reflecting on her journey, she remarked, “My dedication to education and hard work are beyond commendable. I am immensely proud of my achievements, and even my parents are proud. I am grateful for the support of my teachers and family members, especially Roberts and my aunt Seemangal, who played crucial roles in my success.”
Davanie Raghoobar:
The future Fashion Designer
Eleven-year-old Davanie Raghoobar, who hails from the beautiful village of Hibernia, started her educational journey with a strong foundation from her parents, who both as teachers further developed her skills at Hibernia Nursery and Aurora Primary School.
Her passion for reading and problem-solving has driven her academic success. Aspiring to become a fashion designer, Raghoobar’s top performance at Aurora Primary and her acceptance to Queen’s College mark significant milestones in her journey. She secured 499.32 marks.
Davanie’s parents expressed their gratitude, “We are immensely thankful to the teachers and family members who have supported Davanie. Her achievement is a testament to her hard work and the guidance she has received,” they said.
Matthew Mohabir: Overcoming adversity
Matthew Mohabir, an 11-year-old from Abrams Creek, Upper Pomeroon River, is a well-rounded student who actively participated in school activities, particularly enjoying spelling and quiz competitions.
During an interview with Guyana Times, Mohabir noted that the pandemic disrupted his early schooling, causing significant learning loss.
However, with determination and hard work, he adjusted and persevered, becoming the first student from his school to attain a top position at the prestigious Queen’s College with 496.57 marks.
Matthew noted the journey was not without its challenges. The transition back to normal school life after the pandemic was difficult, but his perseverance and the unwavering support of his teachers and family helped him overcome those hurdles.
Expressing his gratitude, Matthew said, “I want to thank my Grade 6 teachers, Sir Corey Jabbar and Sir Vishnu Sookram, and my mom for their guidance throughout this journey. Their support was instrumental in helping me achieve this success.”
Shaneka Narine: The aspiring Pediatrician
Shaneka Narine, from Perseverance, gained the top six spot with 497.32 marks, securing a place at Queen’s College.
Known for her dedication and positive attitude, Shaneka is deeply involved in school activities, from dancing and singing to sports. Despite financial struggles, her family’s unwavering support and her love for learning have propelled her to great heights. She dreams of becoming a pediatrician, and this is driven by her affection for babies.
Her aunt Nichola proudly shared, “We are so proud of Shaneka for allowing us to experience this wonderful feeling. Her determination and involvement in various activities have truly paid off, and we thank God for guiding us through the challenges.”
Sereena Allen: A balanced approach
Sereena Allen of Queenstown Village attended Queenstown Primary School. Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, which included social isolation and disrupted schooling, Allen maintained her high academic standards.
A well-rounded student, she enjoys dancing, participating in sports, and engaging in various school activities.
Her determination to gain a place at Queen’s College has been fulfilled through her hard work and the support of her family, teachers, and community.
Reflecting on her experience, Serena shared, “Achieving my goal of attending Queen’s College has been a collective effort. I am grateful for the support from my family, teachers, and community. Their encouragement helped me stay focused and motivated.” Allen scored 496.44 marks.
Manav Dwarka: Aspiring Software Engineer, shines in NGSA
“Scoring in the top 10 for Region #2, with 496.42 at the National Grade Six Assessment, was a defining moment in my academic journey. My name is Manav Dwarka, and I reside at Golden Fleece on the Essequibo Coast. My educational journey began at Bacchus Nursery, and continued at Fisher Primary, where my interest in technology grew and inspired me to become a software engineer.
“Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I was forced to develop a consistent study routine, balancing my time between different subject areas,” Manav explains. “My main focus was on understanding concepts rather than memorizing them. This approach, though challenging, proved to be crucial in my preparation.”
The journey presented many challenges, but Manav overcame them, thanks to his strong, encouraging and consistent support system. He recalls, “I experienced moments of doubt and anxiety, especially as the assessment dates approached. Seeking help was essential, and it guided me to stay on track.”
On the day of the assessment, Manav experienced mixed emotions, but quickly reminded himself to remain calm and focused. “July 4, 2024 is a day I will never forget,” he says with a smile. “When I heard the minister announce my name among the top 10 pupils in Region 2, I was overcome with joy.”
Manav attributes his success to his parents Jerome and Navina, for their undivided attention and many sacrifices. “I couldn’t have done it without them,” he emphasizes. He also praises his amazing teachers, Padminie Pitamber and Thameeka Singh, who played significant roles in his achievement, as well as his exceptional lessons teacher Rohan Sukhlall.
“Sir Rohan’s support was invaluable,” Manav notes. Additionally, he thanks Parbattie Singh for her guidance, as well as his encouraging grandparents and wonderful aunts, especially Aunty Uma and Aunty Amrita.
To other students preparing for their assessment, Manav offers this advice: “Always trust your abilities. Remain dedicated and remember that it is okay to seek help. Your efforts will be rewarded.”