– embrace purpose-driven living
PRESIDENT of STARR Computer and businessman Mike Mohan has called on young Guyanese to prioritise education, discipline, and purposeful living, warning that modern distractions are contributing to declining mental sharpness and reduced long-term ambition among youth.
Mohan made the remarks during an engagement with students at STARR Computer showroom, where he reflected on his personal journey, the evolution of his company, and the role of education and discipline in national development.
He hosted 84 students and seven teachers from seven secondary schools as part of an educational outreach visit. The participating schools were North Ruimveldt Secondary, North Georgetown Secondary, New Campbellville Secondary, Christ Church Secondary, New Central High, Brickdam Secondary, and Cummings Lodge Secondary. He said the initiative was intended to expose students to real-world applications of technology and inspire greater interest in careers within the ICT sector.
Tracing his early life, Mohan recalled growing up in Albuoystown in the post-independence era, describing a modest beginning shaped by strong family values and determination.
He credited his father’s guiding principle, “Success is a choice”, and his mother’s emphasis on religion and moral grounding as foundational influences in his life.
From those beginnings, Mohan outlined a diverse professional path that included work in the hospitality sector at the Pegasus Hotel, experience in pharmacy and accounting with GuyOil Company, teaching at Kuru Kuru College, and a senior position in the United States at Citibank in New York’s financial district.
He said his return to Guyana marked a deliberate decision to contribute to national development through entrepreneurship.
That decision led to the establishment of STARR Computer, now one of Guyana’s most recognised technology retail and services brands.
Mohan said the company was built with a clear purpose: to help Guyanese access technology, build skills, and participate in the global digital economy.
During the visit, he also provided a walkthrough of the company’s operations, highlighting the Samsung Experience Centre, HP printer and scanner divisions, customer service units, delivery and finance departments, MMG payment services, call centre operations, and business-to-business solutions. He also pointed to retail offerings such as Computer City, accessories and peripherals, and smart home technology products.
Reflecting on education, Mohan noted that his intellectual development was shaped in an era before digital access, relying heavily on public libraries, museums, and knowledge gained through intergenerational interactions. He said this environment fostered curiosity, critical thinking, and mental discipline.
However, he expressed concern that today’s youth face new challenges, including excessive screen time, social media consumption, gaming, and negative influences, which he suggested are contributing to reduced focus and what he described as “mental decline.”
He also pointed to growing health concerns among young people, particularly obesity and overweight conditions, linking them to poor dietary habits and reduced physical activity.
He encouraged greater participation in sports and outdoor engagement as part of a healthier lifestyle.
Mohan stressed that communication skills, proactive thinking, and curiosity remain essential tools for success in an increasingly digital world. He urged young people to actively seek knowledge, develop creativity, and cultivate resilience through continuous learning.
He said STARR Computer remains committed not only to business growth but also to national development by empowering Guyanese with access to technology and opportunities for personal and professional advancement.
