SEPTEMBER was Education Month, celebrated under the theme: “From Classrooms to Communities, Education Transforms Lives.”

Pepperpot Magazine has been featuring our educators, and this week we highlight Miss Joy Harripaul of Novar Primary School, a dedicated, respected teacher who has served her community well.

Born on January 26, 1980, in Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, Miss Joy Harripaul has spent her entire life in the community she proudly calls home.

A dedicated educator, she is a single mother of three children: two boys, namely Niron Ramdeen and Aaron Narine, and a girl, Luanna Ramdeen Singh.

She has devoted 21 years of her life to the teaching profession, shaping young minds and making a lasting difference in the lives of her pupils.

Currently serving at Novar Primary School, Miss Harripaul describes teaching as more than just a job; it is a passion that continues to inspire her every day.

Throughout her career, she has remained committed to educating children, helping them develop their knowledge, confidence, and values to become responsible members of society.

Like many women, Miss Harripaul has faced numerous challenges throughout her life.

Balancing the responsibilities of motherhood with the demands of her profession has required strength, perseverance, and determination.

Despite the difficulties, she continues to move forward with courage and a deep commitment to the children entrusted to her care.

For Miss Harripaul, however, the greatest reward of teaching is not found in awards or recognition, but in the love and respect she receives from her former pupils.

She considers it one of the most fulfilling experiences of her career when she encounters past students on the road, and they warmly greet her.

Sometimes, she may not recognise them immediately, but they approach her with a smile and say, “Miss, I know you!”

These simple yet meaningful encounters remind her that the lessons she taught and the relationships she built have left a lasting impression.

Such moments serve as a powerful reminder that a teacher’s influence extends far beyond the classroom.

Even years after students have moved on, the care, guidance, and encouragement they received continue to shape their lives.

As Miss Harripaul reflects on her 21 years in education, she remains grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young people.

Her journey is a testament to the strength of a woman who continues to balance motherhood, overcome life’s challenges, and serve her community through education.

For Miss Joy Harripaul, success is measured not only by the number of years spent in the classroom, but by the generations of students who remember her with love and respect.

Her story is one of dedication, resilience, and the enduring impact of a teacher who truly cares.

Miss Harripaul’s father died when she was 21 years old, but her mother is still alive, and she also resides in Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara.

They are natives of Mahaicony Village, a place that is more than home for them, and Miss Harripaul has spent the past 21 years teaching as a qualified teacher.

She has four brothers and is the youngest child and only daughter in the family.

Miss Harripaul made sacrifices early in her teaching career to become academically qualified and enrolled at Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE). Even with three young children, she managed somehow.

She overcame many hurdles as a single parent and, over the years, ensured her children were provided for and well cared for.

Miss Harripaul, as she is fondly called, is a simple woman of virtue who has contributed selflessly to her community to improve others’ lives.

She is a role model, and teaching has become part of her everyday life, not just a job, but what she loves to do.

For Education Month, the Ministry of Education emphasised how school growth and knowledge spread outward to strengthen entire neighbourhoods and families. It also highlighted teacher training, digital and technological expansion in schools, and wider access to learning environments.

Kick-off activities like the “Steps for Education” walk in Georgetown, promoting wellness, sharper minds, and anti-bullying awareness, were among the major events held during the month’s activities.