Josiah Williams

On January 9, 2025 the EMC Foundation conducted an initiation visit to Nismes Secondary School on the West Bank of Demerara, Region 3, to engage with the newly formed Environmental Club. The session, which was attended by approximately 17 students from Grade 7, along with an Environmental Club Coordinator, provided the opportunity for the EMC Foundation team to introduce the EMC Foundation, discuss exciting plans for upcoming activities, and outline the work plan for the first term.

The session began with a lively icebreaker activity, our “Eco-Bingo” activity, facilitated by Abigail Gobin, Projects Assistant, alongside Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator, Josiah Williams, Communications Officer, and Aletha Jewanram, Administrative Assistant. This interactive icebreaker fostered a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere, allowing students to connect with the EMC Foundation team while learning about animals and the environment and encouraging active participation.

Abigail provided an engaging overview of the EMC Foundation’s mission, initiatives, projects, and past activities, capturing the students’ attention and sparking curiosity about the environment and conservation. The club members were particularly interested in learning about the EMC Foundation’s Biodiversity Monitoring Programs, drone programs and outreach activities.

The club members also actively participated in the “Eco-Wordsearch” activity, which taught them problem-solving skills as well as common phrases associated with Guyana’s environment. Additionally, the students participated in the EMC Foundation’s “Eco-Charades” activity, where they learned about simple actions that can be taken to conserve the environment in a fun and interactive way.

The members also showed keen interest in artistic activities and exploring and learning about the environment through nature walks, tours and scavenger hunts. Some members also asked questions about the technology used to maintain a healthy environment, such as drones, camera traps, GPS devices, and cameras, as well as learning to use these tools.

Students also eagerly reviewed the EMC Foundation publications, asking questions and showing enthusiasm for the information and images, demonstrating a genuine interest in learning and participating in future activities. They also requested to view videos developed by the EMC Group, such as camera trap videos and a video on turtle telemetry. By the end of the session, students were excited and ready to begin Environmental Club activities and participate in the fun and exciting exercises outlined in the curriculum.

The EMC Foundation E-STEM Program is supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation.

Ms. Abigail Gobin Facilitating the Session

Club Members Engaging in the “Eco-Bingo” and “Eco-Wordsearch” Activities

Club Members Engaging in the “Eco-Charades” Activity

Club Members Interacting with the EMC Foundation Team

Club Members Interacting with EMC Foundation publications

Club Members Viewing Videos on Activities Implemented by the EMC Group

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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.

On January 7, 2025, the EMC Foundation conducted an initiation visit to the Good Hope Secondary School to engage with the newly formed Environmental Club. The session, which was attended by approximately 35 students from Forms 1 to 5, along with an Environmental Club Coordinator and two teachers, provided the opportunity for the EMC Foundation team to introduce the EMC Foundation, discuss exciting plans for upcoming activities, and outline the work plan for the first term.

The session began with a lively icebreaker activity, our “Eco-Bingo” activity, facilitated by Abigail Gobin, Projects Assistant, alongside Josiah Williams, Communications Officer, and Aletha Jewanram, Administrative Assistant. This interactive icebreaker fostered a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere, allowing students to connect with the EMC Foundation team while learning about animals and the environment and encouraging active participation.

Abigail provided an engaging overview of the EMC Foundation’s mission, initiatives, projects, and past activities, capturing the students’ attention and sparking curiosity about the environment and conservation. The club members were particularly interested in learning about the EMC Foundation’s Biodiversity Monitoring Programs, drone programs and outreach activities. They also actively participated in the “Eco-Wordsearch” activity.

The members also showed keen interest in exploring and learning about the environment through nature walks, tours and scavenger hunts. Some members also asked questions about the technology used to maintain a healthy environment, such as drones, camera traps, GPS devices, and cameras, as well as learning to use these tools. Additionally, members inquired about career options in the environmental and STEM fields after the interactions with the EMC Foundation team.

Students also eagerly reviewed the EMC Foundation publications, asking questions and showing enthusiasm for the information and images, demonstrating a genuine interest in learning and participating in future activities. They also requested to view videos developed by the EMC Group, such as camera trap videos and a video on turtle telemetry. By the end of the session, students were excited and ready to begin Environmental Club activities and participate in the fun and exciting exercises outlined in the curriculum.

The EMC Foundation E-STEM Program is supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation.

Ms. Abigail Gobin Facilitating the Environmental Club Initiation Visit

Club Members Engaging in the “Eco-Bingo” and “Eco-Wordsearch” Activities

Club Members Interacting with the EMC Foundation Team

Club Members Interacting with EMC Foundation publications

Club Members Viewing Videos on Activities Implemented by the EMC Group

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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.

The EMC Foundation, in collaboration with Mahaica River Tours, hosted a special Farewell Celebration in honour of the British High Commissioner to Guyana, Her Excellency Jane Miller. The event celebrated her outstanding service and commitment to Guyana and marked a significant personal milestone, her twenty-fifth journey along the Mahaica River.

The Farewell Celebration was held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at the Mahaica River Tours venue in Little Biaboo. The day beautifully blended nature, tourism, and celebration, reflecting a shared respect for Guyana’s people, wildlife, and waterways. Over the course of her many visits, the Mahaica region has become a deeply cherished landscape for High Commissioner Miller, shaped by years of discovery and meaningful connection.

As the attendees travelled along the Mahaica River, more than five troops of red howler monkeys were observed alongside a stunning array of vibrant birdlife. In a rare and memorable sighting, an anaconda, one of the world’s largest and heaviest snake also made an appearance, serving as a powerful reminder of the region’s extraordinary biodiversity.

Following the river excursion, the farewell celebrations continued at the Mahaica River Tours venue, where High Commissioner Miller was presented with a collection of locally crafted gifts. These included a hand-painted dress showcasing iconic Mahaica species, a custom animal-themed coaster set, jaguar-beaded earrings, and autographed EMC Foundation publications highlighting the Mahaica region.

Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation, Mr. Shyam Nokta, reflected on High Commissioner Miller’s tenure in Guyana, commending her deep appreciation for the country’s natural and cultural heritage, her genuine interest in community life, conservation, and education, and her hands-on approach to engaging with people and projects across the nation.

The EMC Foundation and the British High Commissioner in Guyana have enjoyed a long and productive partnership, resulting in several innovative projects. Through the UK Government’s Blue Social Challenge Fund Pilot, support was provided for The Visual Chronicles of the Mahaica Wetlands and Mangroves coffee table book and video series. The partnership also transformed the EMC Group’s children’s book, Arya Takes a Swim, into an audio series and audiobook in both English and Arawak.

In her brief remarks, High Commissioner Miller shared how much she had enjoyed her time in Guyana and the meaningful connections she formed with its people, communities, culture, heritage, and natural environment, noting that Guyana would always remain close to her heart.

As the Farewell Celebrations concluded, the EMC Foundation extended its heartfelt best wishes to High Commissioner Miller in her future endeavours, thanking her for the support, friendship, and inspiration she has shared with the Foundation and the wider Guyanese community. Her legacy along the Mahaica River and across Guyana will continue to inspire all to Experience, Connect, and Act for the environment.

Attendees Arriving at Little Biaboo for the Farewell Celebrations

Attendees Departing for the Tour of the Mahaica River

Attendees During the Mahaica River Tour

Biodiversity Observed During the Mahaica River Tour. Photo Credits: Jane Miller

Attendees During the Formal Program of the Farewell Celebrations

High Commissioner Miller Receiving Tokens of Appreciation from the EMC Foundation and Other Attendees

British High Commissioner, HE Jane Miller sharing remarks

Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation, Mr. Shyam Nokta Providing Brief Remarks

EMC Foundation Program Coordinator, Sarah Singh leading the activity

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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.

The EMC Foundation, through its E-STEM Program, continues to strengthen environmental education and awareness by collaborating with thirty-six environmental clubs across Guyana. These include Queen’s College, The Bishop’s High School, St. Stanislaus College, St. Rose’s High School, Marian Academy (Primary and Secondary), School of the Nations (Primary and Secondary), Saxacalli Primary, De Hoop Primary, Little Biaboo Primary, St. Cuthbert’s Mission Primary and Secondary, Moraikobai Primary, Santa Aratak Primary, Wakapau Secondary, Warapoka Primary and Secondary, Georgetown International Academy (Primary and Secondary), Open Doors Centre, Tapakuma Primary School, Rosignol Primary, Mashabo Primary, La Bonne Intention Secondary, Lake Mainstay Primary and Secondary, Beterverwagting Primary and Secondary, Plaisance Primary and Secondary, Tutorial High School, Chateau Margot Primary, Abram Zuil Secondary, Tuschen Secondary, and Lake Capoey Primary.

In December 2025, the Foundation expanded its reach through partnerships with two additional clubs, Abram Zuil Secondary School and Lake Capoey Primary School, further advancing its mission to empower youth through environmental science and technology education. An additional fourteen clubs also expressed interest in joining the E-STEM Program.

For the Primary Ecosystems Work Plan in December 2025, the topics completed included Ecosystems, Maps and Drones, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), Plant Identification, Plant Adaptations, and Animal Adaptations. Club members were introduced to camera traps as tools for monitoring wildlife, learning about their parts, uses, and setup methods, and understanding their importance in studying animal behaviour and supporting conservation efforts.

Students were also trained in the parts, functions, and applications of drones for environmental monitoring, mapping, and disaster response, with sessions covering safety procedures, equipment setup, and basic flight practice. Lessons on plant adaptations explored how species adjust to different environments through structural, physiological, and behavioural traits, using real-world examples such as cacti, mangroves, and water lilies. This learning was reinforced through field activities and a plant adaptation identification assessment. As part of the Animal Identification and Animal Adaptation lessons, club members learned to classify animals as vertebrates and invertebrates and explored their ecological roles, including their importance as pollinators.

Throughout the program, students created drawings, posters, and dioramas, viewed educational videos and presentations, and actively participated in class discussions. Field trips allowed them to conduct hands-on plant and animal identification exercises and to further examine plant and animal adaptations within natural environments.

Club members also learned about the different types of ecosystems, the threats they face, and practical measures for protecting them. They explored food chains and food webs, the organisms involved, and how animals are adapted to survive in specific habitats. Additionally, they examined how maps, compasses, and GPS technology can support the protection of ecosystems and wildlife.

Over forty students participated in the program during the month, engaging in presentations, discussions, and creative projects that fostered curiosity, critical thinking, and practical understanding of environmental science. These experiences strengthened students’ awareness of key issues such as pollution prevention, composting, and water quality, while encouraging them to contribute to a cleaner, greener future within their schools and communities.

The EMC Foundation remains committed to empowering youth through environmental education, ensuring that the next generation is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and passion to experience, connect, and act for a sustainable Guyana.

The EMC Foundation’s E-STEM Program is being implemented with the support of the ExxonMobil Foundation.

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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.

On December 19, 2025, the EMC Foundation hosted its annual Environmental Club Coordinators Connect, bringing together coordinators of the environmental clubs that are part of the Foundation’s E-STEM Program. The event celebrated the vital role coordinators play in guiding young minds and served as a pivotal planning session for the 2026 expansion of the E-STEM Program.

The workshop welcomed teachers, headteachers, and community leaders from eighteen schools across Guyana, all actively implementing the E-STEM Program curriculum in approximately 50 schools and villages along the coast. Participating schools included Little Biaboo Primary, Marian Academy Secondary, Tutorial High School, Tapakuma Lake Primary, St. Rose’s High School, Abram Zuil Secondary School, St. Stanislaus College, Tuschen Secondary, Good Hope Secondary, Lake Mainstay Primary and Secondary, St. Cuthbert’s Primary, De Hoop Primary, Saxacalli Primary, Mashabo Primarry, Open Doors Centre, Lake Capoey Primary and Nismes Secondary.

The Connect focused on recognising the contributions of coordinators throughout 2025, fostering collaboration, encouraging constructive feedback, and planning the 2026 activities. Coordinators also discussed strategies for expanding clubs, not only in numbers but also in innovative activities that align with the Foundation’s mission of nurturing youth environmental awareness.

Activities included a SWOT analysis exercise, where coordinators identified the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats facing their clubs. This exercise not only assessed the current state of the clubs but also offered an opportunity to brainstorm solutions and explore new possibilities. Icebreaker and networking sessions allowed coordinators to connect, share experiences, and demonstrate their passion for environmental education and youth mentorship.

Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation, Mr. Shyam Nokta, delivered remarks thanking the coordinators for their dedication to guiding youths toward environmental responsibility and STEM excellence. He also shared the Foundation’s vision for 2026, “We want to work with you to advance the use of technology in the new year. For example, during sessions on renewable energy, students should be able to see and interact with solar panels, understand how they work, and gain hands-on experience. We also aim to provide club members with experiences such as tours, nature walks, and mangrove explorations.”

In recognition of their invaluable contributions, the EMC Foundation, in partnership with the ExxonMobil Foundation, presented coordinators with appreciation hampers. These tokens symbolised gratitude for their dedication, hard work, and commitment to promoting positive change within their communities.

The event concluded successfully, with coordinators sharing experiences, exchanging ideas, and expressing enthusiasm for the growth and expansion of the E-STEM Program in 2026.

EMC Foundation Program Coordinator, Sarah Singh, Facilitating the Session

Mr. Shyam Nokta Providing Brief Remarks

Club Coordinators Participating in the Icebreaker Activities

Club Coordinators Participating in the SWOT Analysis Exercise

Club Coordinators Networking with the EMC Foundation and ExxonMobil Foundation Teams

Club Coordinators Receiving their Tokens of Appreciation

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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.

On December 13, 2025, the EMC Foundation hosted a Giant River Otter Community Conservation Session in St. Cuthbert’s Mission (Pakuri), Mahaica. The session brought together community members and stakeholders who regularly interact with otters, as well as individuals interested in the conservation of this iconic species. This event forms part of the Giant River Otter Conservation Program within the Mahaica Watershed, which aims to strengthen conservation efforts for this endangered species through education, community engagement, monitoring, and research.

The session focused on raising awareness about otter ecology, threats to their survival, and the importance of community stewardship. Participants gained insights into the biology, behaviour, feeding habits, social structures, and breeding patterns of otters, with a particular focus on the Giant River Otter. Discussions also highlighted the critical role of freshwater ecosystems, such as rivers and wetlands, for both otters and the communities that rely on these waterways.

Led by Program Coordinator, Sarah Singh, and supported by Environmental Officers, Neesa Azam and Noah Sills, the session welcomed eleven participants, including village councillors, tourism operators, tour guides, fishermen, an environmental club member, and a Peace Corps volunteer.

The session began with a fun, interactive icebreaker titled “If you were an otter, what would you do all day?”, capturing participants’ interest while gauging their existing knowledge. This was followed by a presentation and group discussions on otter species in Guyana, their ecological roles, habitat characteristics, and major threats within the Mahaica Watershed.

Residents shared valuable local knowledge, confirming that both otter species found in Guyana, the Giant River Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) and the Neotropical River Otter (Lontra longicaudis), are present in the Mahaica River. They highlighted additional environmental concerns, such as saltwater intrusion during extreme dry seasons, which can impact freshwater habitats and food supplies for otters. Encouragingly, participants reported no conflicts with otters and noted that the animals are widely appreciated for their hunting and fishing skills, as well as their playful nature.

This Community Conservation Session is a key component of the Giant River Otter Conservation Program, supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation. Beyond raising awareness, it provides an important platform to connect with communities, gather local knowledge, and better understand the challenges affecting otters, other wildlife, and the broader environment.

Sarah Singh Facilitating the Giant River Otter Community Conservation Session at Pakuri

Sarah Singh Interacting with Attendees During the Session

Attendees Participating in the Activities Hosted During the Session

Attendees Participating in the Activities Hosted During the Session

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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.

On November 25, 2025, the EMC Foundation hosted its first Giant River Otter Community Conservation Session in Little Biaboo, Mahaica, bringing together representatives from key communities along the Mahaica River, including Unity, DeHoop and Little Biaboo. This session forms part of the Giant River Otter Conservation Program within the Mahaica Watershed, which aims to strengthen the conservation of this endangered species through education and awareness initiatives, community engagement, monitoring, and research.

The session focused on raising awareness about otter ecology, the threats they face, and the importance of community stewardship. Participants were introduced to the otter species found in Guyana, with a focus on the giant river otter, while gaining a deeper understanding of otter biology and behaviour, including feeding habits, social structure, and breeding patterns. The discussions also emphasised the vital importance of freshwater ecosystems such as rivers and wetlands to both otters and the communities that rely on these waterways.

Led by the EMC Foundation’s Program Coordinator Sarah Singh, and supported by Environmental Officers Neesa Azam and Dimitri Thom, the session brought together eleven individuals, including tour operators, tour guides, and fishermen, who regularly interact with the river ecosystem and giant river otters.

The session opened with a light, interactive icebreaker titled “If you were an otter, what would you do all day?”, which helped capture participants’ interest while gauging their existing knowledge. This was followed by a presentation and group discussions on otter species in Guyana, their role in the ecosystem, habitat characteristics, and major threats within the Mahaica Watershed.

During the engagement, residents shared valuable insights. They reported that both species of otters found in Guyana – the Giant River Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) and the Neotropical River Otter (Lontra longicaudis), are present in the Mahaica River. They also noted sightings of manatees in the Mahaica River. However, residents also raised major concerns, including reports of hunters using otters as target practice. This troubling behaviour was reported to the Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission, which has since issued a public statement on the matter.

Participants took part in several hands-on activities, including identifying otter habitats and threats, as well as exploring the physical characteristics of Giant River Otters using balata figurines. As a token of appreciation, attendees received EMC Foundation–designed Giant River Otter educational stickers for their active participation.

This Community Conservation Session is a critical component of the Giant River Otter Conservation Program within the Mahaica Watershed, which is being supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation. Beyond raising awareness, it serves as an important platform to connect with communities, gather local knowledge, and better understand the challenges affecting otters, other wildlife, and the broader environment.

Sarah Singh Facilitating the Giant River Otter Community Conservation Session

EMC Foundation Team Members Interacting with Attendees During the Session

Attendees Participating in the Activities Hosted During the Session

Attendees Interacting with the EMC Foundation publications on Otters and the Mahaica Watershed

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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.

The EMC Foundation, led by Founder and Director Mr. Shyam Nokta, Program Coordinator Ms. Sarah Singh, and Ms. Suzanne DeAbreu, Guyana STEM Initiative Lead of the ExxonMobil Foundation, recently participated in a visit to Karanambu as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the Giant River Otter Conservation Program in the Mahaica River. At Karanambu the team was hosted by Ms. Melanie Mc.Turk, Managing Director of the Karanambu Lodge.

This visit follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the EMC Foundation and The Karanambu Trust earlier in 2025, formalising their shared commitment to education, conservation, and scientific monitoring. Recognised as a leading centre for Giant River Otter conservation in Guyana, Karanambu Lodge offered the team valuable first-hand insight into the practices, challenges, and successes that have shaped its conservation model.

During the visit, the team learned about decades of otter rehabilitation and monitoring work conducted by the Karanambu Trust. They gained a deeper understanding of field research techniques, habitat management strategies, and community engagement approaches used to protect this endangered species.

The visit also included a trip along the Rupununi River, where the team experienced the richness of the landscape and its wildlife. Over the course of the trip, they observed more than 50 black caimans, a giant river otter, a jaguarundi, and a wide range of birds, fish, and monkeys. These experiences reinforced the team’s appreciation for the interconnectedness of species and habitats, highlighting the importance of ongoing conservation action.

Insights from the visit will directly inform the design and collaborative implementation of the Giant River Otter Conservation Program in the Mahaica River, supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation. Lessons learned at Karanambu will guide the development of context-appropriate activities, including youth engagement, community education, and scientific monitoring, all reflecting proven best practices.

The visit also provided a platform for collaborative discussions between the EMC Foundation and The Karanambu Trust, exploring opportunities for ongoing knowledge-sharing and partnership. These discussions aim not only to safeguard the Giant River Otter and the freshwater ecosystems it depends on but also to support environmental clubs in the Rupununi through the E-STEM Program being implemented by the EMC Foundation. The exchange visit marks a significant step in transforming the MoU into practical conservation action. It strengthens the EMC Foundation’s capacity to protect one of Guyana’s most iconic species while contributing to the long-term sustainability of the Mahaica Watershed.

The EMC Foundation, ExxonMobil Foundation and Karanambu Trust Teams During a Discussion at Karanambu Lodge

The EMC Foundation, ExxonMobil Foundation and Karanambu Trust Teams During an Excursion along the Rupununi River

A Few of the Wildlife Observed During the Exchange Visit (From Top Left: Black Caiman, Jaguarundi, Heron and Giant River Otter)

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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.

The EMC Foundation, through its E-STEM Program, continues to strengthen environmental education and awareness by collaborating with thirty-four environmental clubs across Guyana, with the support of ExxonMobil Foundation. These include Queen’s College, The Bishop’s High School, St. Stanislaus College, St. Rose’s High, Marian Academy Primary and Secondary, School of the Nations Primary and Secondary, Saxacalli Primary, De Hoop Primary, Little Biaboo Primary, St. Cuthbert’s Primary and Secondary, Moraikobai Primary, Santa Aratak Primary, Wakapau Secondary, Warapoka Primary and Secondary, Georgetown International Academy Primary and Secondary, Tapakuma Lake Primary, Lake Mainstay Primary and Secondary,  Mashabo Primary School, Rosignol Primary School, Beterverwagting Primary School, Beterverwagting Secondary, Plaisance Primary, Chateau Margot Primary, Tuschen Secondary, Plaisance Secondary, La Bonne Intention Secondary, Tutorial High School, and Open Doors School.

During November 2025, the Foundation expanded its reach by partnering with two additional clubs. These are the Beterverwagting Primary School and the Tutorial High School, furthering our mission to empower youth through environmental science and technology education.

For the Primary ‘Ecosystems’ Work Plan for November 2025, the topics completed were Ecosystems, Maps and Drones, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), Plant Identification, Plant Adaptations, and Animal Adaptations.   The club members learned about the types of ecosystems, threats to the ecosystems, and measures to protect these ecosystems. They learned about food chains, their various parts and the organisms involved, as well as how animals are adapted for their various habitats. They learned about how maps, compasses, and GPS can protect ecosystems and animals. The club members drew pictures, created posters and dioramas, watched videos and presentations and engaged in class discussions. They also did field trips to conduct plant and animal identification exercises and held discussions on plant and animal adaptations.

For the Primary ‘Responsible Waste Management’ Work Plan for November 2025, the topics completed were Waste Disposal and Noise Monitoring. For Waste Disposal, the club members defined the terms and discussed real-life scenarios to aid in the understanding of the topic. They learned and discussed the various steps to proper waste disposal, the impacts of improper waste disposal and preventative measures. For Noise Monitoring, the club members discussed the causes of noise pollution, its effects on human health and other species, the types such as traffic, industrial activities, loudspeakers, household sources and preventative measures.

At the Secondary level, the focus was on Ecosystem Components and Interactions, and Animal Identification.  The club members explored the parts of an ecosystem, types of ecosystems and various cycles which make an ecosystem work. They learned about the various biodiversity found in ecosystems, the various cycles and relationships that they comprise. The club members explored the concept of animal classification by learning how animals are grouped based on shared characteristics such as body structure, genetics, and behaviour. They viewed a video on both vertebrates and invertebrates, examining examples from each category, including sponges, insects, fish, reptiles, and mammals.

Throughout the month, over 120 students participated in the program, engaging in presentations, discussions, and creative projects that fostered both curiosity and practical understanding of the environment. These experiences not only deepened students’ scientific understanding but also inspired them to think critically about their role in protecting the planet. Students demonstrated awareness of key issues such as pollution prevention, composting, and water quality, while discussing ways they could contribute to a cleaner, greener future within their schools and communities.

The EMC Foundation remains committed to empowering youth through environmental education, ensuring that the next generation is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and passion to experience, connect, and act for a sustainable Guyana.

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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.