Mention a leader who has been serving his country in the most unselfish of manner, indefatigable in his genuine desire and endeavours in wanting the very best for his people, conceiving plans and programmes that are  being executed, resulting in the most amazing social and economic   transformation that this nation has ever had; leaving no stone unturned as he presents, not only the case of this country, but that of all  developing ones, as he challenges the wealthy nations as to their unfair and selfish attitudes towards lesser developed countries. His pioneering and visionary Low Carbon Development Strategy, presented to  the world with  such intellectual clarity, yet very clear and precise in its programme for saving the planet from the creeping disasters of  climate change effects, has been an international talking point, receiving accolades from none other than noble laureate, Professor Dr Wangari of Kenya;  the eminent British climate change economist, Professor Dr. Nicholas Stern; and the Father of India’s Green Revolution, Professor M.S. Swaminathan, who was also honoured by the same University.

His  award of  the United Nations Environmental Programme’s   Champion of the Earth accolade was indeed a fitting honour, internationally, and a recognition of his trailblazing efforts on behalf of all of mankind. It was saying “Thank you for helping to save us all.”  The doctoral award from his Russian alma mater spoke volumes of the pride that the institution felt  at his ascension to such high office and  his many achievements, thus far.

Now, the recent announcement of the conferral of a Doctorate of Literature  degree by the Padmashree Dr. DY Patil University in Mumbai, on this great son of  Guyana, is yet another eminent vindication of the high esteem in which he is held in the international community of nations, and a recognition of his sterling work.

He is giving his utmost labours to causes which generations to come will remember and continue to praise. All Guyana is proud of this achievement.