EMC Foundation

Sarah Singh

Exploring, Innovating, Conserving: Highlights from EMC Foundation’s E-STEM Program – December 2024 Activities

EMC Foundation, through its E-STEM Program, continues to collaborate with eighteen environmental clubs across the coast of Guyana. 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 Primary and Secondary and Warapoka Primary.

During December 2024, the topic for Term 1 for both primary and secondary schools was Ecosystems. For the primary school’s Work Plan for December, the topics included Animal Identification, Animal Adaptations and an End of Term Presentation Session. The club members made dioramas and diagrams, and conducted nature walks and small field trips in their villages.

For the secondary school’s Work Plan for December 2024, the topics included Camera Traps, Animal Adaptations and IUCN and an End of Term Presentation Session. The club members participated in discussions and went on nature walks.

During December 2024 club members across the schools were eager and engaged in their learning experiences. They participated enthusiastically by identifying different types of pollinators and listing them, showing active interest in the topic​. In the “Animal Adaptations and IUCN” session, members expressed excitement about the learning process, particularly when engaging in discussions and watching educational videos​. These details highlight the members’ positive attitudes and active involvement in the environmental club activities.

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.

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EMC Foundation Hosts Environmental Club Coordinators Connect

On December 18, 2024, the EMC Foundation hosted an Environmental Coordinators Connect with the environmental coordinators for the Environmental Clubs, a part of the E-STEM Program.

The event brought together teachers from fourteen schools, who serve as the coordinators for the environmental clubs being supported by the EMC Foundation through the E-STEM Program. There were representatives from The Bishop’s High School, St. Stanislaus College, St. Rose’s High, Marian Academy Primary and Secondary, School of the Nations Primary, Saxacalli Primary, De Hoop Primary, Little Biaboo Primary, St. Cuthbert’s Primary and Secondary, Santa Aratak Primary, Wakapau Secondary and Warapoka Primary.

The event was dedicated to recognising the valuable contributions of club coordinators in 2024, encouraging collaboration and networking, as well as determining the future of the clubs. It served as a platform to outline the 2025 work plan and gather constructive feedback for the upcoming year. The engaging discussions and interactive face-to-face sessions provided valuable insights and enhanced clarity, paving the way for meaningful improvements in 2025.

Environmental Coordinators Allande Johnson-Hackett, Fanta Burnett, Mark Szala, Anjali Maharaj, Shawn Freeman, Kesia Bacchus, Shanice Wilson, Bibi Rahman, Keeran Glahan, Anesia Simon, Michell Schuman, Muriel Patterson, Anthony Richards and Kevon Jeffrey, shared feedback on the 2024 progress of the clubs, leading to proactive and insightful discussions that offered a deeper understanding of their perspectives and club performance. A presentation was made to highlight EMC Foundation’s 2024 achievements and this inspired enthusiasm and questions, followed by a networking session where participants shared insights and built connections.

In recognition of their invaluable contributions to the growth of the clubs throughout 2024, the EMC Foundation presented the Environmental Club Coordinators with hampers. These tokens of appreciation symbolised gratitude for their dedication, hard work, and commitment to promoting positive change within their communities.

The event concluded on a high note, leaving participants inspired and motivated, as they reflected on the accomplishments of 2024. It provided a renewed commitment to strengthening the Environmental Clubs and advancing the goals of the E-STEM Program in 2025.

 

Sarah Singh Providing Welcome Remarks
Mr. Shyam Nokta Providing Brief Remarks
Environmental Club Coordinators Engaging in Discussions
Environmental Club Coordinators Receiving Their Tokens of Appreciation
Networking Session between Environmental Coordinators and EMC Foundation Team

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.

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Exploring, Innovating, Conserving: Highlights from EMC Foundation’s E-STEM Program – November 2024 Activities

The EMC Foundation through its E-STEM Program continues to collaborate with eighteen environmental clubs across Guyana. These are inclusive of 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 Primary and Secondary and Warapoka Primary.

During November 2024, the topic for Term 1 for both primary and secondary was Ecosystems. For the Primary Work Plan, the topics were inclusive of Maps and Compasses, Global Positioning System (GPS), Plant Identification and Animal Identification. The club members made dioramas of plants, conducted nature walks and small field trips in their villages, made diagrams and played games.

During November 2024, for the Secondary Work Plan, the topics were inclusive of Interdependence and Relationships, Plant Identification and Preservation, Plant Adaptations and Traditional Uses of Plants and Animal Identification. The club members participated in discussions, went on nature walks, and generated ideas.

The EMC Foundation engaged more than two hundred and sixty (260) students in the E-STEM program for November 2024, spanning multiple regions along Guyana’s coast. Activities spanned discussions, field trips, and creative projects, fostering environmental awareness and practical learning.

In 2024, the club members participating in the environmental clubs displayed excitement and enthusiasm as they engaged in the various interactive and educational activities. From creating intricate dioramas to exploring the topic of drones and GPS technology, their curiosity and passion were notable. The hands-on approach promoted an appreciation for the environment and a sense of responsibility for its care.

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.

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EMC Foundation’s E-STEM Program Engages Eighteen Environmental Clubs Across Guyana

The Environmental Clubs are part of EMC Foundation’s E-STEM Program. The Foundation is currently collaborating with eighteen environmental clubs in Guyana. These are inclusive of 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 Primary and Secondary and Warapoka Primary.

The E-STEM Program, for both Primary and Secondary Schools, is a structured 11-week program designed to engage students in environmental science and technology through hands-on learning and interactive activities to engage with the topic of the term. Each week focuses on a specific topic, with clear objectives, methods, and evaluations.

The topic for the term for both primary and secondary is ‘Ecosystems.’ For the Primary Work Plan for October, the topics were inclusive of Ecosystems, Food Chains, Camera Traps and Drones. For the Secondary Work Plan for October, the topics were inclusive of Ecosystem Components and Interactions, Ecosystem Functions and Nutrient Cycles, Types of Ecosystems and Biodiversity.

In October, several of the Environmental Clubs made significant strides in exploring ecosystems and environmental science by engaging with innovative topics. Students from both primary and secondary schools developed a deeper understanding of their natural environment. The hands-on activities and structured lessons empowered participants to not only learn about ecosystems but also recognise their role in conservation and sustainable practices.

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.

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Eco-Impact with EMC Foundation

On November 9, 2024, the EMC Foundation, in collaboration with the Scout Association of Guyana (SAG), hosted the Eco-Impact: Cricket and Environmental Awareness event at the SAG base on Woolford Avenue, Georgetown. The event brought together over three hundred (300) scout members from across Guyana for an immersive experience focused on blending environmental education with fun and interactive activities. Participants had the opportunity to learn about the use of technology in environmental monitoring, including air, water and noise meters. The event also featured engaging word games, a sip-and-paint session, and a friendly cricket match between the EMC Foundation and SAG.

Tishawana Harry, a volunteer with the EMC Foundation, introduced the scouts to the use of noise meters in environmental monitoring. The scouts were excited to see how these devices can measure and assess noise pollution, offering a hands-on learning experience about the impact of sound on the environment.

Poorandayal Omacharan, a volunteer with the EMC Foundation, introduced the scouts to the use of water meters in environmental monitoring. The scouts were excited to learn how these devices can measure water quality and help track important environmental factors that affect local ecosystems.

Michael Philander, a volunteer with the EMC Foundation, introduced the scouts to the use of air quality meters in environmental monitoring. The scouts were excited to learn how these devices can measure air quality and track key environmental factors that impact both human health and local ecosystems.

Chelbie Gilkes and Alliah Simon, both volunteers with the EMC Foundation, facilitated the word games. The scout members enjoyed completing turtle-themed crosswords and environmental-themed word searches, which provided a fun and educational way to reinforce their knowledge of wildlife and environmental conservation.

Rahul Changa and Jillian Williams, both volunteers with the EMC Foundation, facilitated the sip-and-paint activity. Scout members were encouraged to express their creativity by painting how they perceive the environment and the ways they aim to protect it, turning their artistic visions into powerful messages of environmental stewardship.

Abigail Gobin, the Projects Assistant with the EMC Foundation, led interactive sessions with the scout members at the EMC Foundation exhibit. During these sessions, members had the opportunity to learn more about the Foundation, its various activities, and the publications it has produced, gaining a deeper understanding of the organisation’s mission and impact in environmental conservation.

To close off the day, the EMC Foundation team challenged the SAG team to a friendly cricket match, with the game officially opened by the EMC Foundation’s Patron, Mr. Ramnaresh Sarwan. After an exciting and spirited match, the EMC Foundation team emerged victorious, bringing a fun and memorable end to a day filled with sports, learning, and environmental awareness.

Noise Meter Demonstrations with Tishawana Harry

Water Quality Meter Demonstrations with Poorandayal Omacharan

Air Quality Meter Demonstrations with Michael Philander

Scout Members Engaged in the Environmentally-Themed Word Games

Scout Members During the Environmentally-Themed Sip-and-Paint Activity

Scout Members Engaging with the EMC Foundation Exhibition Booth

Cricket Match between EMC Foundation and SAG

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.

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EMC Foundation Welcomes Patron Mr. Ramnaresh Sarwan

The EMC Foundation is proud to announce the formal welcoming of Mr. Ramnaresh Sarwan as its Patron. A distinguished figure known for his contributions to Guyana, the West Indies and the international cricketing world, Mr. Sarwan’s alignment with the Foundation marks a significant milestone in our journey toward environmental protection, conservation and community empowerment.

As Patron, Mr. Sarwan will play a key role in amplifying the EMC Foundation’s vision of “Experience, Connect, and Act.” His involvement will enhance our outreach efforts, inspire youth engagement, and support initiatives focused on environmental education, biodiversity protection and sustainable practices.

The EMC Foundation team is thrilled to have Mr. Sarwan on board.

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.

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EMC Foundation’s Initiation Visit at Queen’s College Inspires Young Environmentalists

On October 16, 2024, the EMC Foundation Team comprising Projects Officer, Sarah Singh, along with Projects Assistant, Abigail Gobin, led a highly engaging and successful initiation visit to Queen’s College to introduce the school’s Environmental Club to the EMC Foundation’s mission and vision. Approximately twenty-six members participated, including students from Forms 1 to 5 and two teachers, all of whom demonstrated a genuine interest in environmental sustainability and conservation.

The session kicked off with a lively “Eco-Bingo” game, an interactive icebreaker that created a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere, helping students connect with each other and the EMC Foundation team. This was followed by a presentation on the EMC Foundation’s mission and initiatives, highlighting its dedication to environmental education and conservation. The students responded with enthusiasm, with some even expressing interest in volunteering with the EMC Foundation. Building on this engagement, the term’s work plan was outlined, detailing objectives and activities aligned with the EMC Foundation’s goals, and emphasising a structured approach to guide the Environmental Club’s efforts. This plan, with support from the Club Coordinator, aims to empower students to take on active roles in environmental initiatives, fostering both leadership and responsibility.

The initiation visit enhanced the partnership between Queen’s College and the EMC Foundation, paving the way for student-led environmental initiatives that align with the EMC Foundation’s mission of promoting environmental stewardship. The positive spirit during the visit has left the EMC Foundation team optimistic about the future contributions of Queen’s College students through the Foundation’s E-STEM Program.

Members Engaged in the ‘Eco-Bingo’ Activity

Sarah Singh Providing an Overview of the EMC Foundation

Sarah Singh Discussing the Work Plan with Club Members

Members Discussing the Work Plan

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.

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Pollution to Solutions Workshop with The Bishop’s High School Environmental Club

On October 11, 2024, the EMC Foundation hosted a ‘Pollution to Solutions’ workshop with students from The Bishop’s High School Environmental Club. The workshop featured a detailed presentation on pollution, exploring its different types, sources, and impacts on the environment and human health. After the presentation, students and a teacher engaged in an interactive discussion with the EMC Foundation team—comprising Board Member, Malisa Nokta, Projects Officer, Sarah Singh, and Projects Assistant, Abigail Gobin.

Facilitated by Sarah Singh, the session encouraged the students to be vocal about their views and concerns. They actively shared their ideas on tackling pollution and the environmental challenges they see in their school and community. Their enthusiasm created a collaborative atmosphere, where they collectively brainstormed solutions.

As a follow-up from the workshop, the students will work together to develop and implement an action plan aimed at reducing pollution in their school environment. This plan will help them to undertake actions to address pollution, with the ongoing support of the EMC Foundation.

The students expressed gratitude to the EMC Foundation team and requested more sessions to continue raising awareness of environmental issues. This workshop not only fostered critical thinking but also provided a platform for students to take meaningful actions, one step at a time, toward a cleaner, healthier future.

Sarah Singh Facilitating the Workshop

Mrs. Malisa Nokta and Students during the Workshop

Students Making Contributions during the Workshop

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.

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EMC Foundation Conducts Camera Trap Training in Little Biaboo

On October 5, 2024, the EMC Foundation held an impactful camera trap training session at the Mahaica River Birding Tour (MRBT) venue in Little Biaboo. The training combined theoretical knowledge with practical applications, demonstrating how technology can be effectively used for environmental conservation. Six enthusiastic residents, including adults and youths from Little Biaboo, participated in this engaging session.

The training introduced participants to the operation of camera traps, understanding their functionality and significance in wildlife monitoring. Participants were exposed to setting up camera traps in ideal locations to capture wildlife data, along with instructions on maintenance to ensure long-term use.

Led by EMC Foundation Coordinator, Mr. Deopaul Somwaru, the session provided invaluable knowledge and guidance. His expertise helped participants acquire practical skills that they could immediately apply in their community, enhancing local conservation efforts. The successful deployment of camera traps is anticipated to generate valuable insights into the wildlife around Little Biaboo, further supporting community-driven conservation initiatives.

By the end of the training, participants had gained both theoretical understanding and hands-on experience in using camera traps, empowering them to actively participate in conservation efforts within their village. This training underscores the EMC Foundation’s ongoing commitment to promoting environmental stewardship through education and empowerment.

Deopaul Somwaru Demonstrating Camera Trap Setup

Participants Setting up Camera Traps

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.

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