On July 15, 2026, the EMC Foundation visited the Mon Repos Primary Environmental Club to deliver an interactive drone education session, introducing club members to the exciting world of drone technology and its role in environmental conservation.
A total of 19 participants, including 17 club members and two teachers, took part in the activity. The session provided a beginner-friendly introduction to drones, covering what they are, how they are operated, the regulations governing drone use in Guyana, and the many ways they are used to support environmental monitoring and conservation.
The session commenced with welcome remarks from Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator, who introduced the EMC Foundation team: Deopaul Somwaru, Environmental Officer; Jumel Jarvis, Environmental Officer; Caren Wilfred, Projects Assistant; and Felicia Monderson, Intern. Club members then participated in a fun challenge designed to demonstrate how drones can assist researchers in locating wildlife. Divided into teams of boys and girls, the students became “human drones,” searching the school compound for hidden wildlife stickers. The girls’ team emerged victorious, and all participating club members were rewarded with the wildlife stickers they successfully located.
Following the activity, students took part in an introductory drone lesson facilitated by Sarah Singh and Deopaul Somwaru. They learned about the fundamentals of drone operation, safety considerations, and the growing importance of drones in environmental research, wildlife monitoring, habitat mapping, and conservation.
The highlight of the visit was a live drone demonstration led by Deopaul Somwaru. Club members watched as the drone took to the skies and viewed real-time aerial footage of their school and surrounding community, giving them a firsthand look at the technology in action.
The session provided an engaging and memorable learning experience, inspiring students to explore the intersection of technology and environmental stewardship while demonstrating how innovative tools like drones are helping to protect Guyana’s rich ecosystems.
The EMC Foundation’s E-STEM Program is being implemented with the support of the ExxonMobil Foundation.
Club Members Engaged in the “Human Drones” Challenge
Sarah Singh Facilitating the Session with the “Girls’ Group”
Deopaul Somwaru Facilitating the Session with the “Boys’ Group”
Club Members Enjoying the Aerial View of their Surroundings From the Drone’s Controller
Club Members Observing the Drone in Flight
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.