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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

On September 17, 2024, the EMC Foundation visited St. Cuthbert’s Primary and Secondary Schools to establish Environmental Clubs, providing students with valuable resources and insights into environmental stewardship.

During the visit, the Foundation’s Projects Officer Ms. Sarah Singh introduced the student to the EMC Foundation and the role of environmental clubs in promoting sustainable practices. The engagement featured engaging outdoor games that emphasised teamwork and environmental awareness. Additionally, the students were actively involved in electing their clubs’ executive bodies which will oversee the clubs’ operations with support from their teachers. To close off the sessions, each student received a copy of Hidden Gems of the Mahaica River and essential materials to help their new clubs function effectively.

Club Members of St. Cuthbert’s Primary School being briefed on EMC Foundation and Environmental Clubs by Ms. Sarah Singh

Club Members of St. Cuthbert’s Secondary School being briefed on EMC Foundation and Environmental Clubs by Ms. Sarah Singh

Club Members of St. Cuthbert’s Secondary School Reading the ‘Hidden Gems of the Mahaica River’ Books

Club Members of St. Cuthbert’s Secondary School Reading the ‘Hidden Gems of the Mahaica River’ Books

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 August 31, 2024, the EMC Foundation participated in Storytime Outdoors, a unique event hosted by the National Library of Guyana at the National Park. The Foundation’s participation aimed to raise awareness about marine turtle conservation in Guyana, drawing in approximately 50 attendees, including over 30 enthusiastic children.

Storytime Outdoors catered to children between the ages of two and ten from Georgetown, offering a combination of storytelling and hands-on activities. The featured book, “Arya Takes a Swim,” captivated the young audience, while turtle-themed colouring pages, connect-the-dots, and maze activities kept them creatively engaged.

EMC Foundation Coordinators and Volunteers were on hand to guide the children, encouraging them to use their imagination and skills to complete the fun and educational tasks. The event provided an excellent opportunity for the children to bond with peers, make new friends, and learn about the marine turtles of Guyana and the role of technology in their conservation efforts.

Storytime Outdoors was more than just a reading session—it was a meaningful experience that combined education, creativity, and conservation, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

Attendees completing the Turtle-Themed 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.

On August 10, 2024, the EMC Foundation, in partnership with the Scout Association of Guyana (SAG), hosted an Eco-Adventure activity at Camp Dora on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway. This event brought together over one hundred and fifty (150) scout members from both Guyana and Trinidad for an immersive experience designed to introduce them to the EMC Foundation, deepen their understanding of the ecosystem in Camp Dora, and demonstrate the use of technology in environmental monitoring.

Sarah Singh, the Projects Officer, kicked off the Eco-Adventure activity by warmly welcoming all participants and energizing them for the exciting demonstrations and activities ahead, including GPS navigation, drone operations, camera trap usage, and a nature walk and talk. Mr. Shyam Nokta, the Founder and Director of the EMC Foundation, also extended a warm welcome, highlighting the Foundation’s mission to increase environmental awareness in Guyana. He encouraged everyone to enjoy and make the most of the day’s activities. Following his remarks, Mr. Yonnick David, the Chief Commissioner of the Scout Association of Guyana, expressed gratitude to the EMC Foundation for organizing the event. He urged the scout members to absorb as much knowledge as possible from the day’s activities, highlighting the invaluable opportunity for personal growth and development through learning from the Foundation.

Nathan Prince and Delon Ramkissoon, volunteers of the EMC Foundation, led an exciting drone session where scouts learned about drone components and their practical applications in environmental monitoring and even got to fly the drones themselves. This hands-on experience offered scouts a bird’s eye view of ecosystems and illustrated how drones can be pivotal in creating detailed maps and spotting wildlife for research and conservation.

Felicia Monderson and Shemika Pereira, volunteers of the EMC Foundation, guided the scouts through GPS technology, teaching them to mark and track waypoints. The scouts explored how GPS is used in environmental work, such as tracking animal movements and monitoring changes in the environment, sparking interest in careers as environmental scientists or GPS experts.

Tishawana Harry and Chelbie Gilkes, volunteers of the EMC Foundation, introduced scouts to the world of camera traps, demonstrating their role in wildlife conservation. The scouts were thrilled to see how these devices help gather data on species’ behaviour and population trends, providing critical insights for protecting habitats.

Led by Guyana Forestry Commission Rangers, Julian Phillay and Piralta Stoll, the scouts embarked on a nature walk on the Hilly Sand & Clay Region. The rangers shared their extensive knowledge of the region’s unique geography, flora, and fauna, as well as the importance of sustainable practices in preserving these ecosystems. The walk provided scouts with a deeper appreciation for conservation efforts and inspired them to take an active role in environmental protection.

The day’s activities concluded with a lively Q&A session hosted by Sarah Singh. Scouts eagerly participated, answering questions about the day’s demonstrations and showcasing their newly acquired knowledge. The session not only reinforced the learning objectives but also rewarded enthusiastic participation with EMC Foundation publications. By the end of the activity, the scout members were excited about pursuing careers in the environmental field and even inquired about opportunities to work or volunteer with the EMC Foundation. They were fascinated by the use of technology in environmental protection and eagerly looked forward to participating in more activities like this in the future.

In a surprise and inspiring moment, the event was graced by the attendance of Mr. Kemraj Parsram from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Mr. Ramnaresh Sarwan, the new Patron of the EMC Foundation. Their presence added a layer of prestige to the event and highlighted the importance of environmental education and collaboration.

Drone Demonstrations with Nathan Prince and Delon Ramkissoon

GPS Demonstrations with Shemika Pereira and Felicia Monderson

Camera Trap Demonstrations with Tishawana Harry and Chelbie Gilkes

Nature Walk and Talk with Julian Phillay and Piralta Stoll

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 people, and providing opportunities to experience Guyana’s rich natural environment.