THE University of Guyana (UG) has expressed profound sadness over the recent surge in violence against the country’s most vulnerable, including the heartbreaking death of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the university described the past month as a “horribilis mensis”—a horrible month—marked by escalating acts of interpersonal violence, particularly against women, girls, and young boys.
“The deaths of children are unthinkable and heart-wrenching,” the university said, adding that Adrianna’s death has shaken the conscience of the nation.

UG acknowledged the efforts of public-spirited citizens, including its alumni, staff, and students, who have been providing support through trauma counselling, legal guidance, and community outreach.
The institution pledged continued assistance within its resources, offering medical and counselling services to staff, students, and others directly impacted.

The university also welcomed the introduction of new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for missing persons cases—informally referred to as the “Adrianna Alert”—by the Guyana Police Force, calling it an “important initial response” to safeguard future cases.
UG committed to maintaining active engagement with the police to address concerns raised about operational breaches during the early stages of Adrianna’s case.

Plans are also underway to launch additional “UG Cares” hotline services to support those grappling with trauma triggered by the incident.

“As we mourn, we must also work together to ensure that such tragedies never happen again,” the university stated. “Let the tears of us all not fall in vain, but fall to nurture the seeds of honesty, fairness, justice, caring, hope, reciprocal respect and love in our country.”
The university extended prayers, healing thoughts and heartfelt condolences to Adrianna’s family, the grieving community and the nation.