Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Limited (GBTI) awarded 18 children yesterday for their outstanding performance at the National Grade Six Assessment this year.

The three top performers for the GBTI Early Savers Club were Salma Majeed who obtained 548 marks, Shivannie Featherstone gained 510 marks, and Relon Summer who secured 426 marks at the examinations. The other 15 students were randomly selected from 53 others who submitted their names and grades to the bank.
Chief Education Officer Olato Sam applauded the students for their performance. He also praised GBTI for rewarding students who did exceptionally at the examinations. “They have recognized the importance of rewarding the young people for their hard work,” he stated, adding that GBTI has set a standard most businesses did not adopt. He therefore urged businesses to imitate GBTI’s brainwork and give back to children who have overcome challenges and succeeded.
“I applaud the efforts of GBTI for having such civic responsibility to organize an event such as this,” Sam said, insisting that businesses and society should join the Education Ministry’s efforts to emphasize the significance of education for children.
“From the perspective of the ministry we are proud of all our young people who have excelled. This event speaks volumes. I don’t believe that this is possible without a number of people getting involved,” he said, noting the contribution and efforts of parents who  push their children to excel.

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT
“Behind the scenes on those days when things are difficult…on those days when our young people might not be at their best, parents continue to send their children to school despite all the setbacks and ultimately produce students such as these.”
Sam emphasized that the ministry will continue to highlight the importance of parental involvement.
“These awards are not just for the young people but also for the parents, for having the vision to invest in their future,” he remarked. “One thing every child needs is strong parental support and guidance.”
The Chief Education Officer stressed that the children’s remarkable performance at examinations is an example for other students to emulate since it demonstrates that “hard work does pay off.”
“If you work hard you will be rewarded – don’t ever assume that getting by is enough. GBTI is giving back to society…so you too should give back…to your parents…to your teachers by living up to expectations, by paying attention… and doing the work that is expected of you.”
Administrative Manager of GBTI, Sean Noel remarked that the recent ‘buzz’ in the media over cases where students perform exceptionally at the National Grade Six examinations illustrates that there is enhancement in the education sector.