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Exploring, Innovating, Conserving: Highlights from EMC Foundation’s E-STEM Program – June 2026 Activities

The EMC Foundation continues to collaborate with sixty 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 Secondary, Warapoka Primary and Secondary, Georgetown International Academy Primary and Secondary, Open Doors Centre, Tapakuma Lake Primary, Rosignol Primary, Mashabo Primary, La Bonne Intention Secondary, Lake Mainstay Primary and Secondary, Beterverwagting Primary and Secondary, Plaisance Primary and Secondary, Tutorial High, Chateau Margot Primary, Abram Zuil Secondary, Lake Capoey Primary, Nismes Secondary, Good Hope Secondary, Annandale Secondary, Lusignan Primary, North Georgetown Secondary, Mon Repos Primary, Tuschen Secondary, Westminster Secondary, Karamat Primary, J.C. Chandisingh Secondary, Soesdyke Secondary, Winfer Gardens Primary, Santa Rosa Primary and Secondary, Waramuri Primary and Secondary, Manawarin Primary, Kamwatta Primary and Secondary, Wallaba Primary, Huis’T Dieren Primary, Fisher Primary, Taymouth Manor Primary, Barabina Primary and Hosororo Primary.

In June 2026, the Foundation expanded its reach through partnerships with two additional clubs, further advancing our mission to empower youth through environmental science and technology education in Guyana. These are Barabina Primary and Hosororo Primary.

For the Primary ‘Ecosystems’ Work Plan for June 2026, the topics completed were Food Chains, Camera Traps, and Drones. Club members learned about food chains, including the roles of producers, primary, secondary, and tertiary consumers, and how energy flows through ecosystems. They created food chain models, participated in word searches, watched educational videos, and engaged in discussions to strengthen their understanding of ecological relationships. Club members were also introduced to camera traps and drones as tools used in environmental monitoring. Through videos and interactive activities, they explored how these technologies assist with wildlife observation, research, and ecosystem studies.

For the Primary ‘Responsible Waste Management’ Work Plan for June 2026, the topics completed were Recycling, Reducing and Waste Audits. Club members learned about the importance of recycling, proper waste separation, and how reusing materials can help reduce environmental impacts. They participated in practical activities such as identifying recyclable items, sorting waste, and creating useful products from recyclable materials. Additionally, club members explored ways to reduce waste by conserving resources, limiting disposable items, and adopting environmentally friendly practices at school and home. Waste audits were conducted to help club members identify and record the types of waste generated within their schools and understand ways to improve waste management.

For the Secondary ‘Ecosystem’ Work Plan for June 2026, the topics completed were Plant Adaptations and Traditional Uses of Plants, Animal Identification, Camera Traps, and Animal Adaptations and IUCN. Club members explored how plants and animals adapt to survive in different environments and learned about the importance of biodiversity conservation. Activities included schoolyard plant surveys, tree planting, insect collection and identification, educational videos, discussions, and exploring the IUCN Red List categories. These activities helped club members develop a greater appreciation for local species and the need for conservation efforts.

For the Secondary ‘Responsible Waste Management’ Work Plan for June 2026, the topics completed were Waste Disposal, Waste Audits, and Drones and GPS. Club members participated in practical waste sorting and disposal activities, conducted waste audits at home and school, and reflected on ways to reduce waste through reuse, recycling, and composting. They were also introduced to drones and GPS technology and explored how these tools are used for environmental monitoring, mapping, and conservation activities.

Throughout the month, club members participated in hands-on activities, presentations, discussions, videos, surveys, and creative projects that encouraged teamwork, critical thinking, and environmental awareness. A total of 150 students participated in Environmental Club activities during June 2026. Through these experiences, club members strengthened their understanding of ecosystems, waste management, and sustainable practices while developing skills to become more environmentally responsible 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.

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 Presents Information Tree to the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Guyana

On June 26, 2026, the EMC Foundation proudly presented an EMC Foundation Information Tree to the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences (FEES) at the University of Guyana, further strengthening its commitment to environmental education and awareness.

The Information Tree, featuring the Foundation’s publications on the environment, Guyana’s hidden gems, and endangered species, was presented by Mr. Shyam Nokta, Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation, to Mrs. Linda Johnson-Bhola, Dean of the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences, and Dr. Denise Simmons, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Environmental Studies and EMC Foundation Board Member.

During the presentation, Mrs. Johnson-Bhola warmly welcomed the EMC Foundation team, representatives of the faculty, and the University of Guyana Library. She recognised Mr. Nokta as both a graduate of the Environmental Sciences Programme and a former lecturer of the faculty, commending his continued support and longstanding contributions to the institution. She expressed appreciation to Mr. Nokta and the EMC Foundation for their generosity and pledged to make the Information Tree accessible to students, lecturers, and visitors across the University, emphasising the importance of such educational resources.

Reflecting on the occasion, Mr. Nokta shared how privileged he felt to have once been a student of Dr. Denise Simmons and to now work alongside her. He reminisced on his time at the University when the department was known as the Environmental Studies Unit and noted its remarkable growth into a thriving faculty. He highlighted that this transformation reflects the increasing importance of environmental issues, biodiversity conservation, and climate change as critical national and global priorities.

Over the years, the EMC Group has maintained a close relationship with the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences through internships and volunteer opportunities, providing students with valuable experiences while recognising and encouraging academic excellence.

The Information Tree represents the Foundation’s belief in the power of books to inspire learning and create meaningful connections, even in an increasingly digital world. The publications presented to the faculty were all authored by Guyanese writers and members of the EMC Foundation team. They showcase important aspects of Guyana’s natural heritage, featuring areas such as the Mahaica Watershed and Saxacalli Rainforest, and highlighting iconic species including endangered marine turtles and giant river otters. The Information Tree now stands within the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences, inviting the entire University community to explore, learn, and deepen their appreciation for Guyana’s environment.

Mrs. Linda Johnson-Bhola Providing Remarks During the Handing Over Ceremony

Mr. Shyam Nokta Providing Remarks During the Handing Over Ceremony

Attendees During the Handing Over Ceremony

Attendees Interacting with the EMC Foundation Information Tree and Publications

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Conservation Conversations Featuring Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation & Development

On June 25, 2026, the fourth edition of Conservation Conversations was held at the Avenue Café as part of its ongoing monthly series, welcoming approximately 50 participants. Attendees included representatives from government agencies, civil society organisations, environmental clubs, private-sector partners, youth groups and conservation practitioners. The session continued to strengthen dialogue around environmental issues in Guyana and encouraged collaborative thinking on practical conservation efforts.

The session opened with remarks from Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator of the EMC Foundation, who enlightened the audience about the purpose of Conservation Conversations and how the EMC Foundation and Protected Areas Trust (PAT) have come together to create a space where ideas flow, where connections are made, where voices are heard and where actions begin and continue.

Ms. Oleta Williams-David, Executive Director of the Protected Areas Trust (PAT), expressed appreciation for the continued support of the Conservation Conversations series. She highlighted the importance of creating spaces where conservation practitioners, researchers, and stakeholders can connect and learn from each other’s work. Ms. Williams-David noted that partnerships and the sharing of ideas are essential to advancing conservation efforts and supporting the protection and sustainable management of Guyana’s natural resources.

Dr. Raquel Thomas, Director of Resource Management and Training at the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development, captivated the audience with an engaging presentation on Iwokrama’s history, achievements, and role as a global model for sustainable forest management, conservation, research, and community development. Reflecting on Guyana’s rich forest heritage, she highlighted the historical significance of balata before explaining how Iwokrama was established in 1989 as a unique partnership between the Government of Guyana and the Commonwealth to demonstrate that forests can be used sustainably without being destroyed.

Dr. Thomas emphasised the importance of partnerships with Indigenous communities in the North Rupununi, ensuring that they remain active participants in forest management while maintaining access to resources for traditional practices. She also highlighted Iwokrama’s wider impact on communities and conservation in Guyana, including improvements in education and ongoing scientific research that continues to reveal the extraordinary biodiversity of the Guiana Shield.

Addressing the realities of conservation, Dr. Thomas noted that effective forest management requires both collaboration and resources, famously stating that “conservation without money is just a conversation.” She underscored the importance of partnerships in tourism and the invaluable work of rangers in monitoring and protecting the forest, while acknowledging the ongoing challenges posed by illegal activities and the need for continued cooperation to safeguard Guyana’s natural heritage.

Following the presentations, Ms. Nikkita Greene, Grants Coordinator at the Protected Areas Trust, facilitated an engaging question-and-answer session, guiding dialogue between the Iwokrama team and attendees. She later delivered the closing remarks, summarising key insights from the discussion and encouraging continued collaboration and participation in future editions of the series.

The event concluded with a networking session, where attendees exchanged ideas, explored opportunities for collaboration, and strengthened cross-sector relationships.

Conservation Conversations continues to demonstrate the importance of creating inclusive spaces where diverse voices can come together in support of a shared commitment to protecting Guyana’s environment. Led by the EMC Foundation in partnership with the Protected Areas Trust, the initiative is helping to foster the dialogue and partnerships needed to support long-term conservation impact.

Ms. Sarah Singh Delivering the Opening Remarks

Ms. Oleta Williams-David Delivering Brief Remarks

Dr. Raquel Thomas Presenting on Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation & Development

Attendees During the Discussion Segment

Attendees Engaging in Conservation Conversations

Attendees Engaging with the Exhibition Booths

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EMC Foundation and British High Commission Celebrate World Sea Turtle Day 2026

The EMC Foundation, in collaboration with the British High Commission in Georgetown, celebrated World Sea Turtle Day on June 15, 2026, at the British High Commissioner’s Residence. The event brought together approximately 50 attendees representing Government Ministries and Agencies, Environmental Regulators, Conservation and Non-Governmental Organisations, International Partners and Diplomatic Missions, the Private Sector, and Indigenous Communities.

The celebrations commenced with welcome remarks delivered by Ms. Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator of the EMC Foundation, who welcomed attendees and highlighted the significance of World Sea Turtle Day as an opportunity to recognise the efforts of the many individuals, organisations, communities, and partners working to conserve sea turtles and their habitats in Guyana.

Mr. Shyam Nokta, Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation, reflected on Guyana’s remarkable journey in sea turtle conservation, recognising the dedication of communities, conservation groups, Government agencies, and partners, including the private sector who have worked together over decades to protect these species. He highlighted the progress achieved through initiatives such as beach patrols, tagging, education, and the use of technology to support research and monitoring and the efforts to have Shell Beach, the principal nesting habitat for sea turtles in Guyana, being established as a National Protected Area. He also emphasised the importance of continued collaboration, stating, “Much has been done and achieved, but much more is still to be done. We have to continue working together to protect them.”

Ms. Kandila Ramotar and Mr. Deopaul Somwaru of Environmental Management Consultants Inc. (EMC) shared insights into Guyana’s sea turtle monitoring and conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of Shell Beach as a nesting site for four sea turtle species and the decades of work that have contributed to their protection. Ms. Ramotar reflected on the early conservation efforts led by Dr Peter Pritchard and the transition from hunting to community-led protection, noting the critical role local communities played in changing the future of sea turtles in Guyana. Mr. Somwaru highlighted the impact of the Turtle Telemetry Programme, which uses satellite technology to track turtle movements and improve understanding of their migrations. He emphasised the importance of building local expertise through training and collaboration, stating, “The intention of this programme was to build local capacity rather than simply just collecting data.”

Ms. Singh also shared the journey behind the creation of the Arya Takes a Swim Audio Series and Audiobook, explaining how the 2023 turtle telemetry programme inspired a new way to connect people with sea turtle conservation. She shared how Arya, the tagged green turtle, became a symbol of conservation awareness and inspired Guyana’s first children’s storybook on sea turtles, which later expanded into an audiobook in English and Arawak/Lokono languages. The project combined conservation, storytelling, and cultural heritage, demonstrating the power of creative approaches in inspiring environmental awareness. She emphasised that, “Arya Takes a Swim is more than just a story; it is a journey, a way to help people fall in love with the natural world, understand the urgent need to protect endangered sea turtles, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage that exists along our coast.”

His Excellency Joseph Fisher highlighted the UK’s support for the EMC Foundation through the Blue Social Challenge Fund in producing the Arya Takes a Swim Audiobook in both English and Arawak. He emphasised the importance of combining conservation awareness with the preservation of Indigenous language and culture, noting that the project has helped share the message of marine conservation across communities in Guyana. He stated, “Awareness is the first and most effective step in conservation: when people understand, they value, and when they value, they protect.”

Following the formal programme, attendees gathered for a reception where they listened to snippets from the Arya Takes a Swim audiobook, accompanied by a slideshow showcasing the history of sea turtle conservation in Guyana. Guests also visited the EMC turtle telemetry booth to learn more about satellite tracking technology and explored the EMC Foundation booth to view publications and learn more about the Foundation’s work. The reception provided an opportunity for participants to connect, exchange ideas, share their sea turtle stories, and discuss their visions for the future of conservation in Guyana.

Mr. Shyam Nokta Delivering Remarks

His Excellency Joseph Fisher Delivering Remarks

Ms. Kandila Ramotar and Mr. Deopaul Somwaru Presenting on Guyana’s Sea Turtle Conservation Efforts

Attendees Present at the World Sea Turtle Day Celebration

Attendees Interacting with the EMC Foundation Booth

Attendees Interacting with the Turtle Telemetry Booth

Attendees Engaging with the Photobooth

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EMC Foundation Celebrates World Environment Day with Plaisance Primary School

On June 5, 2026, in observance of World Environment Day, the EMC Foundation team conducted an environmental awareness session with students of Plaisance Primary School. The activity engaged approximately 50 students from Grades 4 to 6 and one teacher, providing an opportunity to celebrate the global observance while encouraging students to develop a greater appreciation for the environment and enhance their role in protecting it.

World Environment Day is observed annually on June 5 and serves as a global platform for raising awareness and promoting action on environmental issues. This year’s observance provided an opportunity for students to learn about some of the challenges facing the environment, explore practical solutions, and understand how everyday actions can contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future.

The session began with an energetic icebreaker, Planet Earth Says, facilitated by Abigail Gobin, Projects Assistant, and Sasha Singh, Intern. The activity created a welcoming atmosphere and encouraged students to interact with the facilitators while learning about animals, nature, and the environment. Their enthusiastic participation helped set the tone for the rest of the session.

Following the icebreaker, students took part in an interactive presentation on World Environment Day and its importance. Abigail introduced the theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” and discussed the many ways in which the environment supports life by providing clean air, water, food, and habitats for wildlife. Students also learned about the purpose of World Environment Day and how people around the world mark the occasion through activities such as tree planting, recycling initiatives, community clean-ups, wildlife conservation efforts, and environmental education programmes.

Students actively contributed to discussions on environmental issues affecting Guyana and the wider world. They identified concerns such as littering, pollution, deforestation, climate change, and habitat loss, demonstrating an awareness of challenges facing both their communities and natural ecosystems. Through guided discussions and interactive questioning, they explored the impacts of these issues on people and wildlife and considered ways in which they could help address them.

The EMC Foundation team also shared information about the Foundation’s Environmental Clubs, environmental education programmes, biodiversity monitoring initiatives, and E-STEM activities. The presentation highlighted the use of technologies such as drones, camera traps, environmental monitoring equipment, and scientific applications in conservation and research. Many students were particularly interested in learning how these tools are used to monitor wildlife and better understand ecosystems.

An interactive discussion on environmental stewardship encouraged students to think about the actions they can take to care for the environment. They shared a variety of ideas, including reducing littering, recycling, conserving water, saving energy, planting trees, respecting wildlife, and encouraging others to adopt environmentally responsible practices. Their responses reflected a clear understanding that protecting the environment is a collective responsibility and that young people can make meaningful contributions.

The session concluded with a fun and engaging activity titled Stand Up If You Care. Students responded to a series of environmental statements and scenarios that encouraged them to reflect on responsible environmental behaviours while reinforcing the key messages discussed throughout the session. The activity generated enthusiastic participation and provided an enjoyable way to gauge students’ understanding of environmental issues. The EMC Foundation E-STEM Programme is supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation.

Ms. Abigail Gobin Facilitating the Session

Club Members Engaging in the “Planet Earth Says” Activity

Club Members Engaging in the “Stand Up If You Care” Activity

Club Members Listening and Engaging in Discussions During the Session

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Exploring, Innovating, Conserving: Highlights from EMC Foundation’s E-STEM Program – May 2026 Activities

The EMC Foundation continues to collaborate with fifty-eight 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 Secondary, Warapoka Primary and Secondary, Georgetown International Academy Primary and Secondary, Open Doors Centre, Tapakuma Lake Primary, 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, Lake Capoey Primary, Nismes Secondary, Good Hope Secondary, Annandale Secondary, Lusignan Primary, North Georgetown Secondary, Mon Repos Primary, Tuschen Secondary, Westminster Secondary, Karamat Primary, J.C. Chandisingh Secondary, Soesdyke Secondary, Winfer Gardens Primary, Santa Rosa Primary and Secondary, Waramuri Primary and Secondary, Manawarin Primary, Kamwatta Primary and Secondary, Wallaba Primary, Huis’T Dieren Primary, Fisher Primary and Taymouth Manor Primary.

In May 2026, the Foundation expanded its reach through partnerships with three additional clubs, further advancing our mission to empower youth through environmental science and technology education in Guyana. These are Huis’T Dieren Primary, Fisher Primary and Taymouth Manor Primary.

For the Primary ‘Ecosystems’ Work Plan for May 2026, the topics completed were Ecosystem and Food Chains. Club members learned about the various types of ecosystems and how plants, animals, and other organisms interact with one another and depend on their surroundings for survival. Additionally, club members learned about food chains, including the roles of producers, consumers, and decomposers, and how energy flows through an ecosystem. For the Primary ‘Energy Efficiency’ Work Plan for May 2026, the topic completed was Sources of Energy. Club members learned about the different sources of energy used to power homes, schools, and communities. They explored the differences between renewable and non-renewable energy sources.

For the Secondary ‘Ecosystem’ Work Plan for May 2026, the topic completed was Plant Adaptation and Traditional Uses. The club members learned about the adaptations that help plants survive in different environments and explored how various plants are traditionally used by local and Indigenous communities for several purposes. For the Secondary ‘Responsible Waste Management’ Work Plan, the topics completed were Pollution Prevention Techniques, Air, Water and Noise Testing, and Composting. Club members learned about practical ways to reduce. They were introduced to basic monitoring techniques for assessing air, water, and noise quality in their surroundings, helping them understand indicators of environmental health. Additionally, club members explored composting as a sustainable method of waste management.

Throughout the program, club members created posters, drawings, and presentations, watched educational videos, and actively participated in class discussions. They also explored their environment through nature walks and produced creative projects such as dioramas, which helped reinforce their understanding of the topics while encouraging observation and hands-on learning.

More than 100 club members participated in the program during the month, participating in presentations, discussions, and creative projects that promoted curiosity, critical thinking, and a practical understanding of environmental science. Through these activities, they developed a stronger awareness of environmental challenges and learned ways to help prevent and reduce these threats.

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

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EMC Foundation Participates the EPA’s World Environment Day 2026 Exhibition

On May 31, 2026, the EMC Foundation participated in an exhibition organised by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in celebration of World Environment Day 2026. The event was held at the Guyana National Park under the theme “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.” It brought together a wide range of educational and interactive activities, reinforcing the message that small, consistent actions can contribute to a resilient and thriving Guyana.

The EMC Foundation’s exhibition booth featured the EMC Foundation Information Tree, an interactive display showcasing the organisation’s publications and work. The feature allowed visitors to engage directly with EMC’s materials while also connecting with team members to learn more about ongoing conservation and environmental education initiatives.

To further enhance engagement, the booth included two interactive environmental games. The first was a matching card game, where participants turned over cards to correctly pair identical environmental-themed images. The second was an ecosystem-based activity in which participants selected a card representing a specific ecosystem and shared relevant facts about it. Winners of both activities received EMC Foundation publications and branded stickers as rewards.

The exhibition attracted participation from schools, as well as representatives from the private sector, Ministries, and other State agencies. This diverse attendance created a valuable opportunity for the EMC Foundation to highlight its role in environmental awareness and conservation education across Guyana. Throughout the event, the Foundation engaged visitors of all ages in a fun and interactive learning experience. Participants learned about wildlife conservation, environmental preservation, and the use of tools like camera traps in field research. The exhibition successfully strengthened public understanding of environmental issues and highlighted the importance of collective action in conservation efforts across Guyana.

Visitors Interacting with the EMC Foundation Information Tree and Publications

Visitors Participating in Interactive Games at the Booth

Visitors Engaging with the EMC Foundation Photo Props

Visitors Engaging with the EMC Foundation Selfie Frame

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Conservation Conversations Featuring a Panel Discussion on Giant River Otter Conservation in Guyana

On May 29, 2026 another Conservation Conversations was held at Avenue Café. This edition was held as a panel discussion in observance of World Otter Day and focused on the conservation of the Giant River Otter in Guyana, with discussions centred on scientific research, habitat protection, public awareness, and collaborative conservation strategies. There was attendance by approximately 50 participants from a wide range of stakeholders, including Government agencies, civil society organisations, environmental clubs, private sector partners, youth groups, researchers, and conservation practitioners. The initiative continues to strengthen dialogue on environmental issues in Guyana and promote collaborative approaches to practical conservation action.

The session opened with remarks from Ms. Oleta Williams, Executive Director of the Protected Areas Trust (PAT), who underscored the collaborative spirit between the EMC Foundation and PAT. She explained that the initiative reflects a shared commitment to advancing conservation in Guyana through partnership and engagement. Ms. Williams highlighted that the EMC Foundation, established by Mr. Shyam Nokta, focuses on environmental awareness and education through publications, learning experiences, and collaborative initiatives that deepen understanding of Guyana’s ecosystems. She further noted that the PAT, established by the Government of Guyana, plays a critical role in providing sustainable financing for the long-term management of the country’s protected areas while strengthening partnerships that support biodiversity conservation.

Mr. Shyam Nokta, Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation and Chairman of the Protected Areas Trust, welcomed participants and recognised distinguished attendees including Mr. Joseph Fisher, the British High Commissioner to Guyana; Mr. Kemraj Parsram, Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); representatives from Exxon Mobil, Karanambu Trust, and Iwokrama; and community members from Kanashen and Mahaica. He noted that Conservation Conversations was established to bring together environmental stakeholders from across Guyana to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and strengthen partnerships for conservation. He emphasised that species such as the Giant River Otter highlight the importance of coordinated conservation efforts, particularly because of their dependence on healthy, interconnected freshwater ecosystems.

The panel featured Ms. Melanie McTurk, Managing Director of Karanambu Lodge; Dr. Deirdre Jafferally, Community-Based Natural Resource Management Specialist; Ms. Alona Sankar, Commissioner of the Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission (GWCMC); and Ms. Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator of the EMC Foundation. The discussion was moderated by Ms. Williams, who guided the conversation on the ecological importance of Giant River Otters, the pressures affecting their populations, and opportunities for strengthening conservation partnerships across Guyana.

Throughout the discussion, panellists highlighted the important role Giant River Otters play in freshwater ecosystems and the need to protect the rivers, wetlands, and habitats they depend on. They also discussed how ongoing research and monitoring are improving understanding of the species and its conservation needs in Guyana, while emphasising the importance of collaboration, education, and public awareness in supporting conservation efforts.

Ms. McTurk highlighted the significance of long-term conservation efforts and research in protecting the Giant River Otter and its habitat. Dr. Jafferally emphasised the importance of integrating community engagement and local knowledge into conservation initiatives to support long-term environmental stewardship. Ms. Sankar emphasised the importance of strengthening wildlife conservation policies, legal protections, monitoring, and enforcement mechanisms to ensure the long-term survival of Guyana’s giant otter populations and other wildlife resources. Ms. Singh highlighted the Foundation’s ongoing Giant River Otter Conservation Programme in Mahaica and the importance of combining research and education initiatives to improve understanding and protection of the species.

The panel discussion reinforced the collective commitment among conservation partners and stakeholders to safeguarding Guyana’s Giant River Otters and the freshwater ecosystems they depend on. The exchange of ideas and knowledge throughout the evening highlighted the importance of continued collaboration, research, and public engagement in ensuring the long-term conservation of one of Guyana’s most iconic species.

Following the discussion, a brief question-and-answer session allowed for further interaction between panellists and participants, encouraging deeper engagement on key issues raised during the panel. Closing remarks summarised the main insights from the session and encouraged continued participation in future editions of the series.

The event concluded with a networking session, where attendees exchanged ideas, explored opportunities for collaboration, and strengthened relationships across sectors and organisations.

Ms. OIeta Williams Delivering the Welcome Remarks

Mr. Shyam Nokta Delivering Opening Remarks

Panellists (From Left: Ms. Melanie McTurk, Ms. Alona Sankar, Ms. Sarah Singh, and Dr. Deirdre Jafferally) and Moderator, Ms. OIeta Williams During the Panel Discussion

Attendees Engaging in Conservation Conversations

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EMC Foundation Conducts Initiation Visit to Lake Mainstay Youth Environmental Club

On May 16, 2026, the EMC Foundation conducted an initiation visit to the Lake Mainstay Youth Environmental Club. The session, attended by 3 members, including club members from Forms 2 to 4, participated in the activity. 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 an introduction to environmental devices facilitated by Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator, alongside Abigail Gobin, Projects Assistant, Sasha Singh, Intern and Trevor Emmanuel, Field Assistant and Driver.

Sarah introduced the club members to camera traps, explaining their different parts, uses, and applications in wildlife monitoring. The club members were then challenged to independently set up their own camera traps, each selecting a target species they hoped to capture.

In addition, the club members were introduced to Global Positioning System (GPS) devices and guided on how to use them to record locations accurately. As part of the practical exercise, they marked and documented the coordinates of the camera-trap sites they deployed, reinforcing real-world field-monitoring skills.

The club members also learned about binoculars, explaining their purpose and how they are used in environmental monitoring, particularly for observing wildlife such as birds. The members were then given the opportunity to use the binoculars themselves to scan the surroundings of Lake Mainstay. The club members also used apps like Merlin, eBird and iNaturalist to identify bird species.

The members also showed keen interest in learning about the environment through nature walks, tours, scavenger hunts and learning to operate drones and camera traps. They were also shown camera trap videos of local wildlife collected by the EMC Group.

The club members also eagerly reviewed the EMC Foundation publications, asking questions and showing enthusiasm for the information and images, demonstrating a genuine interest in learning and conserving the environment. By the end of the session, students were excited and ready to continue Environmental Club activities and participate in the fun and exciting exercises outlined in the work plans.

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

Club Members Deploying their Camera Traps

Club Members Using the GPS Device

Club Members Using Binoculars

Club Members Using Environmental Apps

Club Members Engaging with the EMC Foundation Publications

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EMC Foundation Conducts Initiation Visit to Lake Mainstay Primary Environmental Club

On May 16, 2026 the EMC Foundation conducted an initiation visit to the Lake Mainstay Primary Environmental Club. The session saw attendance from approximately 28 members, including 1 teacher 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, “Planet Earth Says,” facilitated by Abigail Gobin, Projects Assistant, alongside Sarah Singh, Program Coordinator, Sasha Singh, Intern and Trevor Emmanuel, Field Assistant and Driver. This interactive icebreaker fostered a fun and welcoming atmosphere, allowing students to connect with the EMC Foundation team while highlighting environmental facts learned through the E-STEM Program.

Sarah introduced students to camera traps, explaining their different parts, uses, and applications in wildlife monitoring. Students were then challenged to set up their own camera traps, each selecting a target species they hoped to capture.

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.

The members also showed keen interest in artistic activities and learning about the environment through nature walks, tours, scavenger hunts, arts and craft activities, and learning to operate drones and camera traps. The students were also shown camera trap videos of local wildlife collected by the EMC Group. By the end of the session, students were excited and ready to continue Environmental Club activities and participate in the fun and exciting exercises outlined in the work plans. The EMC Foundation E-STEM Program is supported by the ExxonMobil Foundation.

Club Members Engaging in the “Planet Earth Says” Activity

Club Members Deploying Teir Camera Traps

Club Members Engaging with the GPS Device

Club Members Using the Binoculars

Club Members Engaging with EMC Group-developed Materials

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