Carnegie renews focus on quality as it celebrates 80th anniversary

The Carnegie School of Home Economics is celebrating its 80th anniversary and a number of activities have been planned to commemorate this historic milestone.

Special attention is being placed on enhancing courses that are being offered.
This year’s celebration will be observed under the theme “Positive attitude, knowledge and skills – the springboard for successes”, with a wide range of activities throughout the year.
Carnegie Principal Penelope Harris said the school is working closely with its board of governors to ensure this year’s celebration is an unforgettable experience.
She said the institution is at the juncture where it has been recognised that the school needs to revisit its philosophy, role in the society, vision and goals.
Some of the activities in observance of the celebration include a church service, a chefs’ bake off competition, tea party, black tie affair, craft bonanza and the launching of the 80th anniversary magazine in March.
Past members will be honoured as a part of these plans, especially those members who have made a sterling contribution to the institution. In addition, there will be a lecture series on family life in Guyana.
Harris disclosed that the school will this year be participating in Carifesta (Caribbean festival) in Suriname and the Inter-Guiana festival in French Guiana.
Over the years, it has expanded its curricula to include cosmetology, household management and visual arts.
According to Board Chairman John Seeram, the time is now appropriate for an intensive review of courses being offered to ensure that quality and the level of professionalism is in keeping with industry standards.
Seeram noted that the accreditation of these new courses will be strictly monitored to ensure quality assurance if students desire continuity.
He said the school has been implementing the use of information and other technologies to improve its operations.
The chairman said in order to achieve its vision, additional funding is required; prompting the school to raise funds not only from the government, but also the private sector.
The school’s present training needs are geared towards the development of the country’s national ideals and objectives. In March 1933, the Carnegie trustees developed the institution that would assist in relieving unemployment among women, and the institution has since been expanded.
Every year, some 1600 students pass through the various programmes, including the evening and full-time programmes, and special courses designed for organisations and industries.
The Carnegie School of Home Economics has been contributing to the development of Guyana and improving the quality of life of individuals, families and the community at large.
The school was established in March 1933, as a result of an initiative of a committee spearheaded by the then Education Director, Major W Bain Gray. Some of the other programmes to be expanded include courses in tourism, hospitality management and interior décor.