PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar, at the inauguration of the Indian Science and Technology Exhibition being held under the theme:-India: A Culture of Science said that he hopes that the exhibition would stimulate interest in science and technology among Guyanese, and especially students.
“We in Guyana have long recognised the growing importance of science and technology in today’s global realities…”, he said.
According to the President, this is the reason why the government has launched initiatives such as laying a fibre optic cable from Brazil, the One Laptop Per Family (OLPF) initiative and the modernisation of the productive sectors of the economy.

He explained that we live in a world that is constantly changing, driven by the growth and expansion of human knowledge. This, he said, is responsible for the great breakthrough in science and technology in recent times.
Mr. Ramotar also spoke of the importance of science and technology in relation to the economy: “The application of science and technology has allowed us to increase production and productivity greatly. The economies in the world that are growing the fastest are greatly correlated to the growth in science and technology in those societies”.
He strongly believes that science and technology are important to social and economic progress, and will continue to be even more important in the future.
The President lamented that the challenge is great for a country like Guyana since, like most third world countries, we have been dependent not only economically but also in the field of science and technology.
However, he said, that efforts are being made to narrow that gap. “While we may never be self sufficient in this sphere of activity, we have tried to narrow that gap and be in a position to contribute to further advancement of science and technology generally,” he said.
He believes that firstly we must demystify science and technology, and make it accessible to all.
“This is why I am so excited about the science fair that is being launched this afternoon. I believe that it will greatly enhance interest in science and technology in Guyana,” said President Ramotar at the opening ceremony yesterday.
He expressed gratitude to all who were involved in bringing the exhibition to Guyana and particularly thanked Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony and his team, the government and people of India and the High Commissioner of India to Guyana, Mr. Puran Mal Meena.
“Guyana has had long fruitful ties with India and these ties have been to the mutual interest of our peoples. I look forward to the deepening of these relations including in the areas of culture and scientific cooperation,” he said.
The President is elated that the people of Guyana have been afforded the opportunity to view artifacts dating as far back as 7,000 years from India- a country which has a wealth of scientific achievements.
“This exhibition today offers us here in Guyana the opportunity to be a part of this rich history of achievements in science and technology,” he said.
President Ramotar is also encouraging young people to take up studies in science, technology and mathematics, particularly at the tertiary level. In addition, he advised that the National Science and Technology Council will be re-established in Guyana soon.