BARIMA-Waini students Zkhail Obermuller and Devina Samuels emerged as the junior and senior champions, respectively, at the Guyana Police Force Regional Police Division One Annual Spelling Bee Competition 2026, held on Monday.
The competition, staged in collaboration with education authorities in Region One under the theme “Spell to Excel and Learn to Succeed”, brought together primary and secondary school learners from across the Barima-Waini Region to showcase their spelling abilities, confidence and determination.
Obermuller, 11, a Grade Six pupil of Barbina Primary School, secured the junior championship, while 13-year-old Samuels of North West Secondary School claimed the senior title.
Both students will represent Regional Police Division One at the Guyana Police Force’s Annual Spelling Bee Competition on November 7, where they will compete against representatives from other regional police divisions.
During brief remarks, Regional Commander, Senior Superintendent Krishnadat Ramana, encouraged the participants to remain focused on their education, cultivate strong reading habits and embrace discipline as they work towards achieving their ambitions.
He urged the students not to allow setbacks to discourage them from pursuing their goals, while congratulating the two champions and commending all the participants for demonstrating the courage to compete.
Ramana also encouraged the young people to continue reading, learning and striving for excellence, reminding them that they have an important role to play in the country’s future.
The annual initiative reflects the division’s commitment to youth development, educational advancement and stronger police-community relations through mentorship, school outreach programmes and other community-based activities.
Through such initiatives, the Guyana Police Force continues to engage young people beyond traditional law-enforcement activities, promoting positive values and encouraging students to pursue academic achievement.