As Guyana celebrated its 53rd Independence anniversary, the Education Department of Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), in observance of the occasion, honoured 53 seniors at a simple but significant ceremony.
Regional Executive Officer Pauline Lucas presenting one of the many awards to a former educatorA smiling senior gladly accepts his award and hamper from REO Lucas
At the inaugural event, seniors were awarded for their contributions to Guyana throughout their early years. The awardees included former teachers, soldiers, nurses, and administrative and clerical staff.
Acting Regional Education Officer (REdO) Tiffany Harvey and Regional Chairman Genevieve Allen, along with Regional Executive Officer (REO) Pauline Lucas, Regional Vice Chairman Earl Lambert and several senior and junior officers from both the Department of Education and the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), were among the team members who organised the auspicious event.
In remarks at the ceremony, Harvey said that the time has come for homage to be paid to the many men and women who, through their tireless, unselfish and committed efforts, have ensured that Guyana was a much better place today.
“I firmly believe that you, our seniors, have helped in the continued growth and development of this nation. As the Acting Regional Education Officer I say thank you, however with Guyana celebrating its 53rd Independence, we have identified 53 persons who have served in various sectors to identify you today,” the REdO stated.
Meanwhile, REO Lucas reiterated her Department’s gratitude to the awardees for their past services, as she also commended the efforts placed into hosting the event.
“This is a brilliant initiative as many times when persons retire from the public service they are easily forgotten, it’s as though their contributions went in vain, and I am very happy today that the Department of Education and Miss Harvey have sought to remind you that we have not lost track that you made valuable contributions to the region and more so the country,” Lucas said.
The REO stressed the importance of recognising the seniors, stating that while reflecting on Guyana’s Independence, recognition must be given to the seniors who are being honoured as they have all played a part and contributed in the early days of the nation.
