IN a solemn declaration, the University of Guyana paid tribute Friday to the five brave Guyana Defence Force (GDF) servicemen who lost their lives in the GDF Bell 412EPI Helicopter crash on December 6.

With a heavy heart, the university acknowledged that several of the fallen heroes were proud alumni, emphasising the need for peace to prevail as they made the ultimate sacrifice defending Guyana’s borders.

The university mourns the untimely loss of Sean Welcome, Michael Charles, Gary Beaton, Jason Khan, and Michael Shahoud, expressing deep regret, unwavering hope, and resolute determination. In a show of solidarity, the University of Guyana extended its heartfelt condolences to the families, former lecturers, students, loved ones, and all those affected by the tragic passing of these esteemed military men.

Commending the efforts of search, rescue, and medical teams, the university conveyed gratitude to everyone supporting their work. Additionally, the institution offered sincere healing prayers to those who survived the unfortunate incident.

Demonstrating its commitment to national defense, the University of Guyana recently implemented several contingency relief measures designed to support students and staff actively engaged in Guyana’s border defense. Recognising the evolving conditions surrounding national sovereignty, these temporary measures are applicable during the current examinations period, spanning from December 1, 2023, to January 15, 2024.

The relief measures primarily target specific categories of students and staff who may be directly affected by the national defense project.

These categories include military, para-military, police, armed services, and reservists; teachers and students residing in regions one, two, three, seven, eight, and nine; medical personnel and frontline workers; regional administrators; diplomatic service workers; and media professionals.

Outlined below are some key components of the temporary relief measures:

Examination Deferral: Students falling within the specified categories may request the deferral of examinations until the end of January 2024. Requests can be submitted through the email examinations.registry@uog.edu.gy, accompanied by written evidence from their respective organizations.

Government-Issued ID for Exams: For the December 2023 to January 2024 examination period, the University will allow all students, including international students, to write exams using any government-issued ID. This flexibility aims to accommodate the unique circumstances faced by those actively involved in national defense.

UG-Issued Identification Cards Access: Students possessing University of Guyana-issued Identification Cards will retain access to all documentation and grades after exams, ensuring a smooth post-examination process.

The University of Guyana said it stands united in solidarity with its students and staff, recognising the challenges they face in fulfilling their duties to the nation. These temporary relief measures reflect the institution’s commitment to supporting its community during these unprecedented times.