“AT the University of Guyana, we value each staff member; your contribution is important and subsequently noticed. Our success as a university is as a result of people taking action, and true power is in the initial insight from our employees.”
These were the sentiments expressed by Dr C. Nigel Gravesande, Registrar, University of Guyana, during his opening remarks at the 29th annual Long Service Awards Ceremony held on December 12, 2019 in the Education Lecture Theatre (ELT), Turkeyen Campus.
According to a press release from the University of Guyana, the event was organised by the Personnel Division, under the theme ‘Respect and Resilience.’ The exquisite ceremony sought to recognise long service employees and reward them for their loyalty, dedication, hard work and commitment to the university over the years.
Employees were recognised for 20, 25, 30 and 35 years of service to the University of Guyana. Among the awardees were Ms Hermattie Ramkarran, Ms Leelawattie Singh, Mr Mohammed Ally, Professor Brij Tewari and Mr Samuel Lee, recognised for 20 years of service; Ms Vera April, Ms Lorraine Mc Leod, Ms Nicole Grant, Ms Sandra Peters, Ms Florentia Wilson, Dr Paulette Bynoe A.A. and Dr Rishee Thakur were recognised for 25 years of service; Ms Tagebrittie Singh-Jaichand, Mr Phillip Da Silva A.A., Ms Marcellin D’Aguiar and Ms Barbara Holder were recognised for 30 years of service; and Ms Syndrene Harris, Mr Oswald Aaron and Ms Jacqueline Morris were recognised for 35 years of service to the University.
Professor Paloma Mohamed- Martin, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Philanthropy, Alumni and Civic Engagement (PACE) and Chair, Transitional Management Committee (TMC) during her welcome remarks acknowledged the sacrifice of not only the employees but their families as well.
She cited a poem by Martin Carter noting ‘All are involved and all are consumed…’ and that great sacrifice must have been involved in achieving such a milestone. Further, she extended a special thank you to the employees, “I thank you for what you have given and what you continue to give to the University of Guyana. I know you are here because of love, commitment and passion for what you do. You have shown love to this University and we love you.”
Also in attendance were Dr Jacqueline Murray, Director, Institute of Distance and Continuing Education who delivered the feature address, Pro-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Major General (Ret’d) Joseph Singh who presented the awards and certificates to the long service awardees, staff members of the University Community, family, friends and other specially invited guests. A special dance tribute was done by the Indian Cultural Centre and song tributes by Mr Ezzie Crandon and Mr Daniel Frank, staff members of the University of Guyana.
