St. Stanislaus College in Georgetown unveiled its new Physics and Chemistry Lab on Tuesday night, honouring former teacher Father Herbert Feeny, alongside the renovated Richard Harford Staff Room.
Father Feeny taught at the school for many years, from 1946 to 1970. Harford, a former student who went on to become a successful businessman, made significant donations to the school.
The $51 million rehabilitative project is seen as a transformative step towards advancing Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) education at the college.
The project was made possible by donations from the school’s alumni, the Government of Guyana, and families such as the Feenys and Harfords.
During the ceremony, Dr. Kofi Dalrymple, another distinguished alumnus, emphasised the importance of STEAM in shaping the future. He noted that 60% of the school’s students now choose to pursue science subjects. Dr. Dalrymple hailed the college as a beacon of scientific excellence.
“In today’s world and especially in our beloved Guyana, Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths are at the heart of our progress; they are the foundations of innovation, the engine driving the economy, and the key to solving the most pressing challenges of our time. At Saints, we understand,” Dr. Dalrymple said.
He added that the modern labs will foster hands-on learning and equip students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills, essential for success.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who also attended St. Stanislaus College, delivered the keynote address. Reflecting on his own experience as a student, President Ali attributed much of his success to the well-rounded education he received at the institution.
“These corridors, these classrooms, these laboratories moulded me; they shaped me not just by knowledge of the world but by teaching me how to think, how to question, and ultimately how to lead,” the Head of State said.
He stressed the importance of linking education to national development, particularly in growing sectors such as eco-tourism, oil and gas, and hospitality.
The new lab, President Ali noted, also symbolises the school’s dedication to preparing students to contribute meaningfully to Guyana’s evolving economy and development.
The President then challenged the board and teachers to ensure St. Stanislaus remains at the forefront of education and national progress.
“Education, especially in STEAM, is needed to boost an economy that is now on a transformative path of development,” he said.
“We don’t want this institution to only focus on academics. The strength of this institution lies in creating well-rounded individuals, fostering well-rounded citizens, understanding the talent of everyone who passes through here, and building on that talent to give them the best opportunity to contribute to the population,” the President added.
The President also committed to donating $500,000 annually to the school in honour of outstanding teacher Lorraine Meratins, for the creation of the Lorraine Meratins Debating and Impromptu Speech Awards.
Meanwhile, Minister of Education Priya Manickchand commended the school’s progress and highlighted its leadership in delivering hybrid education, a model that began during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A three-storey addition to the school, which will include more classrooms, labs, and staff spaces, is expected to be completed soon.
“It is not just about the physical building; it’s about ensuring every student leaves here with competencies in at least one foreign language, one TVET area, one sport, one musical instrument, and a strong sense of volunteerism,” Manickchand said.
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