In celebration of World Wildlife Day 2026, themed “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods,” the EMC Foundation officially launched the “Saxacalli Rainforest Activity Book” at the Saxacalli Rainforest Centre. The event, celebrated with prominent personalities and enthusiastic attendees of the Saxacalli Primary School and Environmental Club, marked a significant step in promoting rainforest and biodiversity conservation and education among Guyana’s youth.
The activity book is an interactive educational resource designed to engage learners of all ages with the biodiversity of the Saxacalli rainforest. Through reading, colouring and crossword activities, the publication encourages environmental awareness and conservation-oriented thinking. By introducing children to the flora and fauna of the region, the book aims to cultivate curiosity and foster long-term connections to Guyana’s natural heritage.
The launch featured remarks from speakers who highlighted the importance of environmental education. The Minister of Education, Honourable Sonia Parag, emphasised that safeguarding natural ecosystems is integral to national development, noting that environmental stewardship protects both natural wealth and collective well-being. References were also made to the leadership of His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and the establishment of the Global Biodiversity Alliance, that position Guyana as a global advocate for ecosystem protection.
Honourable Sonia Parag reiterated her commitment to environmental learning and youth participation in conservation initiatives. Partnerships with organisations such as the EMC Foundation have enabled the establishment and expansion of environmental clubs in schools and the integration of E-STEM programmes that combine science, technology, engineering, and mathematics with practical ecological studies. Students are introduced to modern conservation tools, including camera traps and field-based research methods, providing experiential learning opportunities that transform the rainforest into a living laboratory.
Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation, Mr. Shyam Nokta, reflected on the organisation’s longstanding relationship with the Saxacalli community and commended local educators and leaders for their dedication to sustainable development. He emphasised the importance of collaborative initiatives that empower communities to protect natural resources while fostering economic and educational growth.
Toshao Helen Williams of Saxacalli highlighted the community’s enduring connection to the rainforest and its biodiversity. She noted that traditional knowledge and sustainable practices have long guided the village’s relationship with nature. The Environmental Club, supported by the EMC Foundation’s E-STEM programme, provides young participants with opportunities for field-based learning, wildlife observation, and environmental discussions. These activities aim to cultivate environmental responsibility and awareness among the next generation.
The Toshao also underscored the role of conservation in supporting sustainable tourism and economic development. Eco-tourism initiatives that showcase Saxacalli’s biodiversity and cultural heritage create opportunities for community growth while promoting environmental protection. Visitors who engage with the rainforest gain a deeper understanding of its ecological significance and the value of Indigenous knowledge, reinforcing the importance of responsible stewardship.
A key feature of the programme was a guided trail walk along the Kokorite trail of the Saxacalli rainforest, where participants explored native plant species and their traditional and ecological benefits. The walk provided hands-on learning about medicinal and aromatic plants, an essential component of the World Wildlife Day theme, and demonstrated how these species contribute to health, cultural heritage, and sustainable livelihoods. Participants engaged in discussions about plant identification, traditional uses, and the importance of conserving forest ecosystems as reservoirs of biological and cultural knowledge.
The launch programme also featured a performance by members of the Saxacalli Environmental Club, who presented a skit rooted in themes of cultural identity and environmental stewardship. The narrative followed a father and his daughter, Hiaro, as they ventured into the rainforest to hunt. Traditionally, hunting is often depicted as a male-dominated activity, yet the skit presented a nuanced portrayal of empowerment—showing a young Indigenous girl supported by her father in learning traditional skills and ecological knowledge.
Hiaro’s journey symbolised the intersection of culture and conservation. Her name, meaning “girl” in Arawak, reflected Indigenous heritage and the importance of preserving linguistic and cultural traditions alongside environmental stewardship. When her father is bitten by a labaria snake, Hiaro relies on traditional knowledge to locate the black yari yari plant, a medicinal species used to treat the injury. Through her encounters with rainforest animals, the narrative explored ecological concepts such as biodiversity, nutrient cycles, and the interdependence of species, illustrating that human survival is intrinsically linked to the health of natural ecosystems.
The launch of the Saxacalli Rainforest Activity Book represents a collaborative achievement between the community, educators, and partners such as the EMC Foundation. The publication provides an accessible and engaging means for children and families to explore the rainforest’s biodiversity, fostering environmental awareness and pride in Guyana’s natural heritage.
By prioritising environmental education, the EMC Foundation and its partners are investing in future generations of conservation-minded citizens. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to sustainable development and ecological preservation, ensuring that communities remain active participants in safeguarding their natural environment.
As the Saxacalli community continues to champion education and conservation, the activity book stands as a testament to the power of knowledge in shaping environmental stewardship. Through collaborative efforts, the initiative seeks to inspire a generation that values sustainability and recognises the intrinsic connection between people and nature.
EMC Foundation Founder and Director, Mr. Shyam Nokta, Providing Brief Remarks
Toshao of Saxacalli Village, Ms. Helen Williams, Providing Brief Remarks
Officials Receiving their “Saxacalli Rainforest Activity Book”
Saxacalli Primary Students Receiving their “Saxacalli Rainforest Activity Book”
Attendees During a Nature Walk through the Saxacalli Rainforest
Saxacalli Primary Environmental Club Members During the Rainforest Skit
Attendees Interacting with the EMC Foundation’s Rainforest Corner
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.