UNDER the theme: ‘ Exploiting Science and Technology for Economic Development,’ the 10th annual Berbice Exposition (Berbice Expo) and Trade Fair was declared open last evening by President Donald Ramotar at the Albion Sports Complex, Corentyne.

The four-day affair which runs until July 28 is being staged to showcase Berbice businesses and, creating partnerships with Georgetown based entities.
The annual event is a joint venture of the Central Corentyne Chambers of Commerce  (CCCC) and, the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Tourism Industry and Commerce which attracted 80 companies this year.

: “The embracing of new and efficient technologies is one of the bedrocks of the economic transformation being pursued by my (PPP/C) administration; it is reflected in our plans to improve the spread of information technologies, modernise the productive sectors and, equip all of our people with the requisite skills to better utilise the technologies that are today – the driving innovation and growth, worldwide.” –President Ramotar

Speaking at the opening ceremony, President Ramotar extended best wishes to the organisers and participants at the event. “It is my fervent desire to see ongoing partnership between the government and the business

community of Berbice strengthened and widened, so as to promote greater economic opportunities and benefits for the people of the Ancient County,” President Ramotar declared.
The Head of State was particularly pleased to note that this year’s event is being hosted under a strategic theme.
“The embracing of new and efficient technologies is one of the bedrocks of the economic transformation being pursued by my (PPP/C) administration; it is reflected in our plans to improve the spread of information technologies, modernise the productive sectors and, equip all of our people with the requisite skills to better utilise the technologies that are today – the driving innovation and growth, worldwide,” he alluded.
As the President continued his presentation, hundreds thronged the outfield and crowded the exhibition site to have a glimpse of the goods and services that were on display.

GREATER IMPETUS

“The national Information Communication Technology (ICT) and other strategies are intended to deepen the involvement of all areas of Guyana, in the process of economic transformation and development,” the President explained.
Mr. Ramotar also related that he is pleased with the enthusiastic embrace of the business community to technological change and innovation.
He added: “I trust that this year’s Berbice Expo and Trade Fair will give greater impetus to this process … I hope that it will continue to grow and expand in the years ahead.”
Meanwhile, President of the CCCC, Tajpaul Adjodhea in his address, pointed out that a prevailing state of economic prosperity of the citizens of Guyana is a very important requirement in order to stimulate and enhance growth of business and commerce.
“We believe that science and technology can play an integral role in developing the various sectors in this region, which will lead to increased production and productivity, thereby creating additional income,” he explained.
Berbice Expo is now described by the CCCC as a household name that attracts local and international agencies.
“We would like to thank the Government of Guyana, the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, GUYSUCO, our sponsors and exhibitors, the hardworking members of the CCCC, and all those who assisted in making this event a reality in 2014,” he commended.
The Regional Democratic Council of East Berbice/Corentyne (RDC – Region 6), GT&T, E-Networks Inc. , Edward B. Beharry Group of Companies, Ansa McAl, Republic Bank (Guyana) Ltd. , Berbice Bridge Company Inc. (BCCI); Digicel, Demerara Bank Limited and Banks DIH Limited, are among the major sponsors of the event.
The Region Six Vice-chairman – Bhupaul Jhagroo and Dr. Leslie Chin of Demerara Bank Limited, also addressed the gathering and commended the CCCC for executing the event, which was pioneered in 2005.

(By Michael Khan)