By Michel Outridge

MINISTRY of Education, in collaboration with School of the Nations, on Monday hosted an award ceremony for 50 teachers/officials for their outstanding performance in celebration of Guyana’s 50th Jubilee of Independence at the National Cultural Centre (NCC), Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown.
Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnarine in the main discourse said he had called for a review of the curriculum in schools since he was aiming for classroom development “greening classrooms”, which is geared towards the elevation of climate change and environmental education.

He told the large gathering that climate change and environmental education would take a central place in teaching to develop our population to be in harmony with what we need to do.

Dr. Roopnarine said that this was needed in schools to enhance programmes to increase climate change literacy as UNESCO sees it can be integrated in teaching in schools.

The minister added that they sought to enhance non-formal teaching as well in schools where reading would be a priority, noting that teaching called for high a level of commitment and classroom work was is very crucial.

He however charged the gathering to recognise what the ministry was doing to guarantee the future of Guyana by classroom work and getting children to appreciate the difficulties since Guyana would not achieve much without an educated population.

The gathering of teachers roared loudly in applause when Dr. Roopnarine acknowledged that teachers were not paid enough.

He stated that he had discussions with GTU President Mark Lyte and they would work hand-in-hand to reward teachers for their work.

The minister reiterated President David Granger’s call for Guyana to become an educational nation as he outlined how the sector could be improved.

Dr. Roopnarine said he was pleased that music and sports was re-introduced in schools and thanked teachers for their contribution in molding the children, since what is poured in is what given out.

He said, “It is one journey and we will sink or swim together.”

Other speakers on Monday included Director of School of the Nations, Dr. Brian O’Toole, who underscored the importance of education and the role of teachers.

Chief Education Officer, Olato Sam delivered the opening remarks and GTU President Mark Lyte also made brief remarks.

The programme included a cultural dance, poem, song and musical rendition by the Guyana Police Force Band.

Forty-five teachers from the 10 administrative regions, as well as five education officials were presented with trophies and plaque for their outstanding contribution in the teaching profession.

The theme for the awards ceremony was: “Improving performance through teacher recognition and rewards.”