NOC inmates graduate in various skill areas

By Indrawattie Nnatram

Although inmates and staff of the New Opportunity Corps (NOC) at Onderneeming on the Essequibo Coast were faced with tumultuous social challenges over the past month, the institution was able to stay buoyed, holding its first graduation ceremony.

Nineteen inmates on Friday were honoured at a grand graduation and prize giving exercise held in the Mess Hall of the NOC for those students who excelled in the various skills training programmes. The inmates were trained in electrical instillation, welding and fabrication, handicraft, tailoring, information technology, music and physical education.
Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony while addressing the gathering, called on the graduates to be perfect role models and utilise the training received to make a difference in the society.
Dr Anthony said despite the many challenges faced by the institution, it has done well. “The New Opportunity Corp has been in existence since 133 years, from then to now, many things happened, but I can proudly say the institution has nurtured many children who have some of the most successful stories.”
Dr Anthony said children at the institution, who came from different backgrounds and circumstances, are given a second chance to excel and transform their lives. Minister Anthony said over the years, the Culture, Youth and Sports Ministry has managed to lobby as well as build strong partnership with governmental and non-governmental agencies.
He said recognition must be given to United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Food For the Poor, the American University of Peace Studies, the Centre for Research on Women Issues, USAID/ SKYE, Eerepami and the Region Two administration for the support given to the institution over the years. Dr Anthony emphasised that the reintegration programme at the institution is supported and financed by UNCIEF.
Meanwhile, Senior Training Officer Brian King said the New Opportunity Corps commenced its first Youth Entrepreneurial Skills Programme on January 5, with the aim to provide skills training in the areas of technical vocational, entrepreneurial and life skills training to every inmate for their personal development and the development of Guyana.
Inmates who graduated in the various skill programmes also attended the Johanna Cecelia Secondary School. Mark Toney gained first place; Shellon Matchell second and Tuyana Mingo third.
UNICEF representative Abheet J Solomon, who attended the graduation, expressed congratulations to the students. Solomon said UNICEF seeks to support the government of Guyana’s efforts in strengthening the environment for children. He urged the students to make most of what they were taught. “You have been given a second chance to pursue your dreams and be part and parcel of ensuring that your positive contributions are made in the home, society, your country and to the world, this is an opportunity to dream and do more!”
The occasion was also attended by Assistant Youth Director Daveanand Ramdatt; Permanent Secretary Alfred King; NOC Administrator Jagnarine Somwar and other government officials.