On May 11, 2026 the EMC Foundation conducted an initiation visit to the Tapakuma Primary Environmental Club. The session brought together approximately 22 participants, including the village Toshao, three teachers, and club members from Grades 3, 4, 5, and 6. The visit served to formally introduce the EMC Foundation team to the club, highlight the importance of Environmental Clubs, and engage students in hands-on learning aligned with the Ecosystems and Biodiversity Conservation Work Plan.
The session began with a lively icebreaker activity, “Planet Earth Says,” facilitated by Abigail Gobin, Projects Assistant, alongside Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator, Sasha Singh, Intern, and Trevor Emmanuel, Field Assistant and Driver. The interactive session created a fun and welcoming atmosphere, allowing students to connect with the EMC Foundation team while learning simple, practical actions to protect and conserve the environment.
A key highlight of the visit was a hands-on demonstration led by Sarah Singh, who introduced students to camera traps, explaining their different parts, uses, and applications in wildlife monitoring. Students were then challenged to independently set up their own camera traps, each selecting a target species they hoped to capture. They were also shown real camera trap footage of local wildlife collected by the EMC Group, which further strengthened their understanding and appreciation of Guyana’s rich biodiversity.
In addition, the club members were introduced to Global Positioning System (GPS) devices and guided on how to use them to accurately record locations. As part of the practical exercise, students marked and documented the coordinates of the camera trap sites they deployed, reinforcing real-world field monitoring skills.
Throughout the session students demonstrated strong enthusiasm and growing confidence in handling conservation equipment, actively applying knowledge gained through the Ecosystems and Biodiversity Conservation Work Plan. They also engaged enthusiastically in creative and interactive learning activities, including nature walks, tours, scavenger hunts, and arts and crafts. Further excitement was generated through the introduction of drone technology and additional camera trap applications, giving students a broader view of modern conservation tools.
Students also reviewed the EMC Foundation publications, asking insightful questions and showing genuine curiosity about the information and imagery presented, reflecting a strong interest in environmental learning and conservation.
By the end of the session, students expressed excitement and readiness to continue participating in Environmental Club activities and upcoming hands-on exercises outlined in the work plans.
The Toshao of Tapakuma, Mr. Keanu Thomas, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to the EMC Foundation team and Founder, Mr. Shyam Nokta, for visiting the community and supporting the Environmental Club.
The EMC Foundation E-STEM Programme is supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation.Top of Form
Ms. Abigail Gobin Introducing the Session
Club Members Engaging in the “Planet Earth Says” Activity
Ms. Sarah Singh Facilitating the Demonstrations
Club Members Deploying their Camera Traps
Club Members Using the GPS Device
Club Members Viewing the EMC Group Camera Trap Videos
Club Members Engaging with EMC Foundation Publications
Club Members Interacting with EMC Foundation Selfie Frame
The EMC Foundation was established by Mr. Shyam Nokta, winner of the 2022 Anthony N Sabga Award for Entrepreneurship. The Foundation works to support environmental awareness and education in Guyana by promoting activities which encourage a greater understanding of the environment, creating a network to connect like-minded persons, and providing opportunities to experience Guyana’s rich natural environment.