As students of the Santa Rosa Secondary School in Region One (Barima/ Waini), continue writing the CXC examinations, headteacher Mr. Glynn De La Cruz, said, “It is a relief that during this time the situation in the community seems normal.”

The Santa Rosa Mission community of Moruka has over the last two months been plagued by a mysterious phenomenon that initially showed itself three years ago.

It resurfaced over the past two months and to date has affected approximately 67 girls between the ages of 13 and 18.

Tests done by health officials in the community showed no genetic or other links and no long-term physical health consequences of the mystery ailment.

However, only a few of the girls who were affected took up the challenge to go through with the examinations despite having missed classes due to the mystery illness.

One such student is 17-year-old Ms. Duanna Heyliger, who is a science student with big aspirations that will hopefully see her making an impact in the forestry sector.

Speaking to her, she explained that she was planning to sit six subjects with her first examinations today being Biology and Agricultural Science.

“After my exams I hope to get involved with the Guyana Forestry Commission and even though I am not 100 percent well, I know I can do it,” she posited.

The teen stated that her illness is not something she can explain but she is confident that the many prayers that go up for her will be enough to see her through the examinations.

The girl’s mother, Ms. Anita Vansluytman, pointed out that she is proud of her daughter but noted that Duanna is at a disadvantage in the examinations.

“I am proud that she made up her mind to go sit the exams, but she missed many classes as a result of the sickness and that is not so good for her,” the mother asserted.

At this show of determination, Minister within the Ministry of Education Dr Desrey Fox said, “It is a good sign that there is some fight left in them and they are not giving up.”

The minister expressed her appreciation to the teachers and other supporters that helped to instill in the girls the confidence that they have enabling them to go and sit the examinations.

Fox agreed that the performance of those affected by the illness could be impaired.

However, she stressed that to deal with the issue a multi-disciplinary approach must be employed.

The minister also affirmed that the Ministry of Education will support the affected students of the Santa Rosa Secondary School as best as they can in whatever they may need.