IN a heartwarming display of corporate social responsibility, the Guyana Chronicle, on Wednesday, hosted its fourth annual back-to-school promotion, widely recognised as the “Gadget Drive.”

This initiative, which has grown significantly in size and impact, provided students with essential gadgets and learning tools just weeks before the new school year begins. The event aimed to support and inspire young learners across the country, ensuring they are well-prepared for their academic journey.

This year’s promotion was particularly special as it doubled as an open day and book sale, offering the public a chance to engage with the Guyana Chronicle team, tour the company’s facilities, and purchase Grade Six educational resources at discounted prices.

The company also seized the opportunity to launch its newest compilation of Grade Six books, adding to the excitement of the day. Moreover, children attending the event benefitted from free eye testing provided by Sears 2020 Vision Centre, underscoring the event’s commitment to holistic educational support.

Participation in this initiative required students to fill out coupons published in the Guyana Chronicle’s daily and Sunday newspapers between June 1 and August 7, 2024. These coupons, which included quiz questions, encouraged students to engage in educational activities while also providing their details for a chance to win valuable educational tools. The filled-out coupons were collected in designated boxes across various regions of the country, ensuring widespread participation.

During the event, Administrative Manager, Aneeka Poonai who is performing the duties of General Manager expressed the company’s dedication to making the promotion bigger and better each year.

She invited attendees to explore the new Grade Six book, which will be available for sale starting in September. Poonai’s remarks reflected the company’s ongoing commitment to nurturing the educational growth of Guyana’s youth.

Marketing Manager, Beverly Roberts, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the significant growth of the event since its inception in 2021. “When we started this promotion, we had a handful of sponsors who shared our vision, and they were eager to get on board with us. I’m happy to say that, over the years, our sponsorship pool has grown, hence the reason our promotion has grown,” Roberts noted.

This year’s event was supported by an impressive array of sponsors, including NexTech, Sheriff Security, Starr Computer, Riaz Computer, K-Tronicks, TechPro, Sears 2020 Vision Centre, Metro, DevCon Inc., I and S Trading, S. Jagmohan Construction and General Supplies, and Supreme Distributors. Their contributions have played a crucial role in the success and expansion of the Gadget Drive, allowing the Guyana Chronicle to continue its mission of supporting education in the country.

As the new school year approaches, the Guyana Chronicle’s back-to-school promotion stands as a beacon of hope and support for students across Guyana. The initiative not only provides essential tools for learning but also serves as an inspiring example of how businesses can positively impact their communities.