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TOTALTEC Inc., a 100% Guyanese-owned company committed to national development, has announced the launch of a groundbreaking multi-sector e-learning platform. This initiative provides access to internationally accredited training programs, equipping Guyanese workers with in-demand skills across key industries.

The platform offers a comprehensive suite of courses designed to meet the evolving needs of Guyana’s dynamic economy, including:

• Hospitality: Elevate customer service, food and beverage management, and front office skills.
• Construction: Master essential trades like carpentry, masonry, plumbing, and electrical work, with a strong focus on safety.
• Oil & Gas: Gain expertise in drilling, production, maintenance, and HSE, aligning with international standards.
• Industrial: Develop proficiency in manufacturing processes, quality control, and industrial safety protocols.
• Operations & Maintenance: Acquire skills in equipment operation, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting techniques.

“TOTALTEC is dedicated to the ‘One Guyana’ vision,” stated Lars Mangal, CEO of TOTALTEC Inc. “Our e-learning platform is a powerful tool for upskilling all Guyanese, regardless of their location, and creating pathways to enhanced employment opportunities.”

Developed in partnership with renowned international training institutions, the platform features:

• Flexible Learning: Accessible anytime, anywhere, empowering learners to progress at their own pace.
• Interactive Content: Engaging modules with videos, simulations, and assessments to reinforce learning.
• Industry-Relevant Skills: Focuses on practical skills and knowledge directly applicable to the workplace.
• Affordable Access: Cost-effective solutions to make upskilling accessible to a wider audience.

Complementing the e-learning platform, TOTALTEC Training also offers hands-on vocational training at its 80,000 sq. ft. facility in Georgetown, adjacent to the Guyana Shore Base (GYSBI). This purpose-built facility has already trained over 4,000 Guyanese to international standards. Programs include:

• Foundational Safety: Essential safety practices across all sectors.
• Specialized Lifting Operations: Safe operation of cranes, forklifts, and other lifting equipment.
• Plant Inspections and Operations: Inspection and maintenance of industrial equipment.

TOTALTEC is the only accredited center in Guyana for both NPORS (UK National Plant Operators Registration Scheme) and LEEA (UK Lifting Equipment Engineers Association). Its Banksman & Slinger program is also accredited by LEEA, demonstrating its commitment to delivering high-quality training.

TOTALTEC e-learning packages are available to government institutions, general public, private sector, both domestic and international.

This multi-faceted approach to workforce development is a significant investment in Guyana’s future, empowering individuals and driving economic growth.

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Over 450 students in East Berbice-Corentyne (Region Six) benefitted from the National  Data Management Authority’s  (NDMA’s)  two-day  “Cyber  Road  Show”  on October 16 and 17, 2024.

The initiative reached eight (8) schools – Manchester Secondary, Winifred Gaskin Memorial Secondary, Lower Corentyne Secondary, Port Mourant Secondary, Berbice Educational Institute, Tutorial Academy, Berbice High School, and Vryman’s Erven Secondary – through cyber hygiene training sessions.

These sessions are designed to boost cybersecurity awareness and online safety practices among school-aged children.

Led by a team from NDMA’s Cybersecurity Division, the sessions provided valuable insights into navigating the digital landscape while protecting personal information and identifying potential threats.

The training targeted students at a critical time when more school-aged children are using the internet not just for school assignments and research, but also for recreational activities such as gaming and social media.

The sessions offered a mix of presentations, discussions, and interactive activities to engage the students and help them understand concepts such as data privacy, phishing scams, secure password practices, and the dangers of sharing too much personal information online.

Headmistress (ag) of Manchester Secondary, Maharishi Crawford-Moore, spoke about the importance of cybersecurity education, describing the sessions as “timely and necessary.”

“With more of our students using the internet, it is crucial that we teach them about cybersecurity at this stage.

“The training has come at the right time because almost every child here is utilizing the internet, and I believe it is essential to equip them with the knowledge they need to stay safe and make smart choices online,” the head teacher said.

Lower Corentyne Secondary, Headmaster, Karl Vanier, echoed these sentiments, underscoring the importance of bringing cybersecurity education to all schools across the country.

“Our students are very exposed to technology, as much as those students in the urban communities. So, even though people consider Berbice communities rural, the students are still exposed, and I believe that the knowledge that they have gotten will definitely help them,” he explained.

He further went on to say, “In this technological age, many of our students are exposed to incidents of phishing and even cyberbullying, so I think the session was very timely and very educational.”

Both headteachers noted that the Cyber Road Show has not only raised awareness among the students but has also empowered teachers who attended the sessions, equipping them to reinforce these lessons in the classroom.

Students actively participated in the discussions, with many sharing their experiences of encountering suspicious messages or links while online.

The training offered real-world examples and practical tips for students to identify warning signs and avoid potential pitfalls. The program reminded the students that staying safe online is not only the responsibility of ICT professionals but also something that every internet user should prioritize.

As part of its ongoing commitment to fostering a safer digital environment, NDMA plans to continue similar training programs across other regions throughout Cybersecurity Month. These efforts aim to ensure that all students, regardless of geographic location, have access to the resources and knowledge necessary to thrive in a digital world. The Cyber Road Show serves as a key element of NDMA’s broader strategy to close the digital divide by offering both technological access and the educational tools required for safe and effective use.

NDMA remains dedicated to empowering communities with information on how to stay secure in an increasingly interconnected world. To support these efforts, additional resources on online safety and cybersecurity practices can be found on the NDMA’s website at ndma.gov.gy, as well as on its social media pages, where updates about future training sessions and other initiatives are regularly shared. The NDMA encourages students, educators, and community members to stay informed and proactive about cybersecurity. (DPI)

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After being diagnosed with breast cancer and following treatment and surgery, Nandranie Deochand thought she had overcome the biggest challenge in her life.

But her hopes were shattered three years ago when the cancer returned.

Despite the daily challenges, Deochand chooses to remain resilient and is positive that she will again survive what she described as a “silent and deadly” killer.

“Fighting cancer is not an easy thing. It’s a hard thing. My pain always comes before I can ever say anything about the way I feel.

“It’s someday up and somedays down. You can’t do the things that you normally do. You can’t go about playing an active part in things that you love to do,” Deochand said on Friday.

Deochand was one of the speakers at the Ministry of Home Affairs Cancer Awareness health fair.

She shared that having been initially diagnosed with breast cancer years ago, she took the necessary treatment and even had surgery.

Upon completion, her test results returned negative. The cancer was gone. But it appeared not for long.

“I take treatment, I had to do surgery and at the end, 2004, it came back.

“I am now battling cancer again. I can’t explain myself but it is very hurtful and painful,” Deochand said.

Three years ago, she said the cancer returned.

Things got worse in June this year when she lost her biggest supporter, her husband to the same illness.

For years, Deochand said her days have not been the same. She cannot do the things she once enjoyed.

“I lost my husband in June with cancer and to know that I am battling again, I have no support by myself. But with God’s grace and prayer keep me standing.

“I hope and pray that fighting this battle by myself and with God I will overcome it because I tell myself there is no cancer in me. I am determined there is no cancer in me and I will get it over,” she noted.

Deochand is urging persons to get regular check-ups and follow their doctor’s advice.

“Cancer is a silent and deadly killer. By the time you know it, you are already gone so please take the doctor’s advice. Early detection saves lives,” Deochand said.

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The Berbice Expo and Trade Fair 2024 officially opened Friday night at the Welfare Ground in East Canje Berbice, with a feature address by Zulfikar Mustapha, Minister of Agriculture.

Addressing the audience at the opening ceremony, Minister Mustapha noted that the annual event is a crucial platform for promoting local businesses, fostering partnerships, and driving economic growth, particularly in Berbice – one of Guyana’s most productive agricultural regions.

In focusing on its theme: “Innovation in Oil, Gas, and Agriculture for a Sustainable Future”, Mustapha emphasized that while the oil and gas industry presents substantial opportunities for economic growth, the agriculture sector must remain a cornerstone of Guyana’s development.

As the nation emerges as a global player in oil and gas, leveraging the wealth to modernize and diversify agriculture to build a sustainable and inclusive future is the aim of the government.

The Berbice Expo and Trade Fair 2024 officially opened Friday night at the Welfare Ground in East Canje Berbice, with a feature address by Zulfikar Mustapha, Minister of Agriculture.

“The oil and gas industry offers new avenues for investment in agriculture, allowing us to modernize the sector, build infrastructure, and boost production. By strategically using the wealth generated from oil to strengthen and diversify agriculture, we can create a sustainable and inclusive economic future for all Guyanese”, he said.

Mustapha further pointed out the government’s agenda of investing heavily in Region Six with a key focus on increasing agricultural production, improving infrastructure, and modernizing key industries.

He made mention of the significant investments that are being made in corn, soya, poultry production, aquaculture, and hydroponic farming along with the development of a state-of-the-art livestock breeding program, which involves importing premium breeding bulls and establishing new pastures across several regions.

“Today, as we gather to celebrate innovation, commerce, and community, we recognize the pivotal role Berbice continues to play in advancing our agri-food systems and securing the future of Guyana’s agricultural sector. The Government of Guyana remains steadfast in its commitment to transforming our agriculture sector, creating a modern, resilient, and competitive nation. Agriculture is not merely an industry; it is a key component of our nation’s food security and economic vitality”, he charged.

The Berbice Expo and Trade Fair 2024 officially opened Friday night at the Welfare Ground in East Canje Berbice, with a feature address by Zulfikar Mustapha, Minister of Agriculture.

Minister Mustapha also discussed the continued efforts to revitalize the sugar industry, with major investments in the Albion, Blairmont, and Rosehall estates. These projects aim to boost sugar production, improve efficiency, and position Berbice as a leader in supplying industrial-grade white sugar and other value-added products.

In addition to agricultural advancements, Berbice, he said is experiencing transformative infrastructure development.

The region is set to become a hub for “gas-supporting infrastructure,” with major projects like the Palmyra port facility and the construction of a deep-water port. Investments in roads, stadiums, hospitals, and educational facilities further highlight the government’s commitment to modernizing the region.

Other speakers at the opening such as the Regional Chairman David Armogan, Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce President Poonai Bigroog and Professor Clement Sankat echoed similar sentiments.

As the Berbice Expo and Trade Fair continues to spotlight innovation and commerce, it reinforces Berbice’s pivotal role in advancing Guyana’s agricultural economy and securing its position as a leader in regional food security.

The Berbice Expo and Trade Fair 2024 officially opened Friday night at the Welfare Ground in East Canje Berbice, with a feature address by Zulfikar Mustapha, Minister of Agriculture.

The mega event was organized by the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce with participation from major companies and agencies such as ENet, Suri Trading, Banks DIH, GuySuCo, One Communications, Nand Persaud & Company. An array of small businesses are also participating in the event which will run until October 21st, 2024.

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The sod-turning of the Blue Water Shipping Stadium represents a monumental milestone for football in Guyana, transforming a long-held dream into a tangible reality.

This significant event on Friday, attended by a delegation led by Concacaf President and FIFA Vice-President Victor Montagliani and Guyana Football Federation (GFF) President Wayne Forde, serves as a pivotal moment for the sport in Guyana.

It promises to enhance the facilities available to players and fans alike, fostering a more vibrant football culture in Guyana.

Montagliani expressed deep satisfaction with the advancements made under Forde’s leadership of the GFF, remarking on the critical importance of such projects.

While CONCACAF is in the midst of constructing a major football facility in the Dominican Republic, initiatives like the one being undertaken by the GFF are equally significant.

According to the FIFA Vice-President, they provide essential infrastructure and inspire future generations of male and female footballers to pursue their dreams in the sport.

The government has made a substantial commitment by leasing a 7.3-acre plot of land to the GFF for a duration of 50 years, which underscores the collaborative effort to promote football in the country.

As the GFF embarks on this ambitious project, FIFA and CONCACAF have pledged their ongoing support, recognizing the long-term benefits that such a facility will bring to the football community.

While the consultancy process is still underway, the GFF is actively investing in landfilling to prepare the ground for construction.

Forde has highlighted that the initial phase will focus on building mini-pitches, aimed at encouraging greater community involvement in the sport.

He expressed optimism that the federation could move to the tendering stage by December or January, signaling a significant step towards actual construction.

In December 2023, the GFF, in collaboration with Blue Water Shipping, commenced the foundational steps to develop an innovative, multi-purpose sports, educational, and entertainment venue. This partnership is not just about building a stadium; it reflects a commitment to enriching the lives of the community.

Blue Water Shipping has entered into a five-year naming rights agreement for the stadium, although specific details regarding the financial aspects of the agreement remain confidential due to a non-disclosure agreement.

Forde has previously indicated that the new facility is designed to accommodate between 8,000 and 12,000 spectators, providing ample space for fans to engage with the game. The stadium will be equipped with modern amenities that are standard for football venues, ensuring that it meets the needs of players, media, and the public.

Key features will include accessibility accommodations for individuals with disabilities, designated playing areas, a main pitch, four-team locker rooms, officials’ dressing rooms, and dedicated spaces for medical and anti-doping facilities. Additionally, recovery areas will be provided to support athlete wellness.

The facility will also feature corporate spaces, VIP and presidential booths, press boxes, conference rooms, a corporate center, and a restaurant, further enhancing the stadium’s utility as a community hub.

A dedicated community space is also part of the plan, intended for year-round use for educational opportunities, youth sports, non-profit events, and other community-minded initiatives.

This focus on community involvement is a testament to the GFF’s commitment to not only develop football talent but also enrich the broader societal fabric.

As the GFF actively pursues the establishment of a genuine Professional League in Guyana, the Blue Water Shipping Stadium is poised to be the “home of the Pro-League.”

This aligns with Forde’s vision for football in the country, which emphasizes the importance of creating sustainable structures that support professional play and community engagement.

Moreover, the new stadium will serve as a complement to the Federation’s National Training Facility located at Providence, which, upon completion, will also include spectator areas.H

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See full press release below:

The Government continues in its aggressive efforts to ensure that employment is increased throughout the country with its support to the private sector and the facilitation of Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) centres in various Regions.

This was no different on Friday when Senior Minister Dr. Ashni Singh and Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill attended a job fair hosted by Prochant, a US-headquartered Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) company, in partnership with the Government of Guyana, at the Watooka Guest House in Linden, Region Ten.

The job fair allows for persons in the mining town and other communities in Region Ten to benefit from training opportunities through Prochant Guyana in partnership with Government, and employment with the United States-based global company.

The company, operating for over 25 years with over 2500 global employees working specifically in the US healthcare industry focused on medical billing and revenue cycle, is slated to employ 100 persons by the first half of 2025 with the objective of ramping up further.

Following training, people can pursue career opportunities in the areas of patient interactive services, referral interactive services and accounts receivable services.

Speaking to the over 600 persons in attendance, including Lindeners and officials of Prochant at the job-fair today Dr. Singh officially welcomed Prochant to Guyana, urged them to ramp up their operations and expressed the hope that the US business will expand further and employ thousands of Guyanese in Region Ten and elsewhere in the country.

“This is not a one-off or isolated occurrence. When we (PPP/C Government) came back into Government one of the first visits I made was to the Call Centre location and said at that time this building must be renovated and brought into operation. We did and completed renovation of operations,” Dr. Singh explained.

He further added that the Guyanese business, Midas BPO was brought in and commenced operations. He also further recognized the efforts of Mr. Malcolm Sobers, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the former Midas Call Centre, who played an integral role in resuscitating the call-centre in Linden in 2021.

The Senior Minister pointed out that over the course of time, Government, recognizing the constant changes in the information communications technology sector, also recognized the need to evolve the model of the call-centre from an entry level one providing telemarketing services to a contact centre providing more value-added jobs.

Thus, through involvement and leadership provided by Government and the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest), an international partner was sought to create those value-added jobs.

In his 2024 Budget Speech, Dr. Singh indicated that Government would continue to support the BPO sector.

 

It has been doing so through the liberalization and creation of a competitive telecommunications sector soon after taking office in 2020 resulting in a significant reduction in the cost of bandwidth and allowing for the expansion of the Call-Centre industry.

In addition, Government has constructed four new Call Centre shells-two each in Essequibo and Berbice as well as resuscitated the Call Centre in Linden, first established when it was in office pre-2015.

Dr. Singh further outlined the history of job-creation in the mining town through the efforts of the PPP/C to resuscitate and expand the bauxite industry as he alluded to the commissioning of BOSAI’s new kiln 15 in Linden and the MAZ project by President Irfaan Ali aimed at the mass production of metallurgical bauxite, with the investment estimated at over USD 100 million creating approximately 500 job opportunities for Region Ten.

Speaking at the event as well, Minister Edghill encouraged persons to seize the opportunities of the training provided through Government in partnership with Prochant and when employed, to work diligently in terms of the way they approach the job as the success of the initiative would depend on the quality of work put in.

Also speaking at the event was Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GO-Invest Dr. Peter Ramsaroop while Global Patient Contact Centre Manager of Prochant Mr. Timothy Beasley, thanked Government for the support in aiding the establishment of the company’s presence in Guyana, its support towards training while also pledging to ensure that 100 persons are employed by the first half of 2025.

Government vows to continue its engagement with the BPO industry to make Guyana a preferred destination for BPOs.

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The Guyana Rugby Football Union Sevens tournament will take place this weekend at the National Park.

It focuses on mentally and physically preparing teams for the upcoming Rugby Americas North (RAN) Sevens Championships.

With cash and prizes at stake, this final tournament of the season will determine the top team in Guyana, as the Police Falcons and Panthers each have won three tournaments this year.

Moreover, the tournament serves as crucial preparation for the seven-time RAN Sevens Champions ahead of the Senior Men’s and Women’s Sevens Rugby Tournament hosted by the Trinidad and Tobago Rugby Union on November 23rd-24th, 2024, at Larry Gomes Stadium in Arima.

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New Zealand stormed into the final of the Women’s T20 World Cup after 14 years, beating the 2016 champions West Indies by eight runs in a low-scoring thriller in Sharjah.

New Zealand will meet the 2023 edition’s runners-up South Africa as the tournament is set for a first-time champion.

Opting to bat first, Sophie Devine’s side huffed and puffed their way to 128 for 9 on a pitch where the ball was not coming onto the bat.

Deandra Dottin starred for West Indies, taking 4 for 22. However, West Indies’ chase did not take off as expected with Eden Carson and Co keeping them to 25 for 2 in the powerplay.

Hayley Matthews and Stafanie Taylor toiled hard but could manage only a combined 28 off 41 balls.

That left West Indies 51 for 4 and needing 78 from 55. Dottin once again kept West Indies in the game.

Her fireworks – a 22-ball 33 where she hit Lea Tahuhu for three sixes in an over – brought the equation down to 34 from 24. But Amelia Kerr, the highest wicket-taker at this World Cup, ended Dottin’s innings in the 17th over when she top-edged a sweep to short fine leg.

New Zealand were not flawless, having dropped five catches in the field, but their bowlers found a way to stop West Indies to 120 for 8. (ESPNcricinfo)

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The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security hosted the ‘Her Vision, Her Future Empowerment Workshop’ on Friday to help young girls in childcare take control of their lives by envisioning what they want their future to be like.

It was organised by the Child Care and Protection Agency (CPA), through its Family Support Services Unit and the Young Influencers programme, at the Regency Suites Hotel, in Georgetown.

Subject Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud shared in a heartfelt discussion with the girls and encouraged them to become familiar with their rights.

“You have rights as children. You have rights as girls, and you have rights in the world in which you live. The question is, ‘Do you know those rights?’ If you don’t know those rights, I hope this morning I am going to motivate you to learn about those rights,” Dr. Persaud told them.

“Once you know what your rights are, you can stand up for those rights, speak about those rights, and encourage all your friends to do the same thing,” she added.

Senior Probation and Social Services Officer Sherri-Ann Francois shared that the intention was to create an environment where young women are inspired, supported and empowered to shape a bright future for themselves.

“As we move through today’s sessions, I encourage you to fully engage, ask questions when you have them, and rise to the challenge. Come out of your comfort zone. This space is created for you to explore your goals, connect with others in the room, and most importantly, reflect on how you will apply what you learn today to your own personal journey,” Francois urged.

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The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha will launch its countdown to Diwali 2024 with its Deep Jale event that promises to be a spectacular light – up with rich cultural items.

Deep Jale will be at the Kitty Seawall Roundabout in Georgetown. On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Dharmic Sabha, a bazaar will also be on display.

President of Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr. Vindhya Persaud spoke about what persons can expect as they usher in the festival of lights.

“In addition to the light up which symbolizes to always let light triumph over darkness, we will be hosting a grand cultural programme featuring outstanding Guyanese artistes who will be performing in music, song and dance,” Dr. Persaud explained.

Dr. Vindhya Vasini Persaud, President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha

Deep Jale is now a staple on the national calendar and this year will expand at the Kitty Seawall Roundabout as it continues each night until the 30th when Dharmic Sabha’s magnificent motorcade will make its way past the Roundabout from the Shri Krishna Mandir in Campbellville to the La Bonne Intention Community Center Ground.

Deep Jale will be held from October 19 – 30 starting from 18:00hrs every evening.

Guyanese artistes including Kishan Sugrim of Berbice, Suraj Singh, Sookrane Boodhoo, Rekha Singh and Ganindra of West Coast Demerara, Elizabeth Wongand Arijit Singh of East Coast Demerara and the Dharmic Nritya Sangh, Cumming’s Lodge Mandir and Golden Om Dharmic Dance troupe from Berbice.

Deep Jale will also be held countrywide, like places at Palmyra, Berbice at the Indian Heritage Monument Site on the 23rd of October and follows those held in Essequibo and West Coast Demerara.

On the occasion of the 50th anniversary, Dharmic Sabha has added a Bazaar element on the avenue opposite the Roundabout, where attendees can Indian cuisines such as 7-curry, hot fried vegetarian samosas, potato balls etc, sweets, rotis and curries.

“People can really have a culinary experience as well as a shopping experience so they can purchase anything from their diyas, to their outfits for Diwali jewelry as they walk along the bazaar,” Dr. Persaud said.

Deep Jale is open to the public with free admission.

“We are encouraging families to come out because it is a really perfect occasion for families to come out in their numbers, experience what Diwali is all about, learn more about Diwali and enjoy the elements of the festival.”

Other activities leading up to Diwali include the Inter-School Rangoli Competition along with a Fashion show.

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