EDUCATOR and former Headmistress of the Helena Primary School, Mahaica, Anoopwattie Veeren, died yesterday at age 68, after a brief period of illness. 

In an invited comment on her passing, Minister of Labour Dr. Nanda Gopaul expressed sadness. He said that Ms. Veeren was a role model for teachers, students and women throughout Guyana.
“She has shaped the lives of numerous children through her teachings, and helped to empower women and citizens through her relentless advocacy for women’s rights and community development work.”
Dr. Gopaul noted that Ms. Veeren had served well as a member of the Teaching Service Commission, and was always keenly interested in community development.
At the time of her death, she was a leading member of the Region 5 PPP/C group and served in various positions in the Women’s Progressive Organisation. Veeren was also the Chairperson of the Unity/Veereniging NDC, and the Upper East Coast Local Board of Guardians. She was a Justice of the Peace and Commissioner of Oaths to Affidavits.
In 2000, Veeren retired as graduate Headmistress of Helena Primary School after serving the system for 40 years as a teacher. The Ministry of Education in 1989 had given her the Teacher of the Year award for Region 4. Another award that she gained (in 1999) was the Bahai Woman of Distinction for Laudable and Sacrificial Service to Society.
Veeren had also served during her working years as a member of the Central Board of Health, an RDC Councillor for Region 4 and as Chairperson of the Guyana Women’s Leadership Institute.
She was the mother of four children, three daughters and a son.
The PPP/C administration extends sincere condolences to the relatives, family and friends of Anoopwattie Veeren.

(GINA)