admin

MODEC sponsors Guyana’s 2024 National Robotics Team Oct 10, 2024 News Kaieteur News – On Friday, October 4th, 2024, representatives from MODEC Guyana Inc. visited the STEMGuyana Clubhouse to meet with Guyana’s National Robotics Team, a group of fifteen talented youths aged 14 to 18, 6 of whom recently represented Guyana at the First Global Challenge, an international robotics competition held in Athens, Greece. Members of Team Guyana Robotics pose with STEMGuyana Operations Manager, Alisha Koulen and the MODEC teamFrom left: Tejasvarun Kandavel, David DaSilva, Captain Lateisha McArthur, MODEC Communications Analyst, Onicka Jones, STEMGuyana Operations Manager, Alisha Koulen, Country Manager Rafael Fumis, MODEC Training Coordinator Livia Alves, Team Guyana Mentor Ariel Taylor, Lucas Simpson & STEMGuyana Board Member and Fundraising Coordinator, Elsie Harry STEMGuyana Board Member & Fundraising Coordinator Elsie Harry receives sponsorship contribution from MODEC Country Manager Rafael Fumis The MODEC team (From left) Kipenie Jordan, Communications Analyst, Onicka Jones, Stakeholder, Socio-Economic & Local Content Manager, Country Manager Rafael Fumis, and Livia Alves, Training Coordinator MODEC, a global leader in floating production solutions such as FPSOs (Floating Production Storage and Offloading units) and TLPs (Tension Leg Platforms) for the offshore oil and gas industry, sponsored STEMGuyana’s National Robotics Team in their participation at the 2024 First Global Challenge. The MODEC team, led by Country Manager Rafael Fumis, included Livia Alves, Training Coordinator; Onicka Jones, Stakeholder, Socio-Economic & Local Content Manager; and Kipenie Jordan, Communications Analyst. During their visit, MODEC’s representatives engaged the robotics team in discussions about their training, preparation, and participation in the competition, STEMGuyana said in a press release. The students explained how they worked closely with their international alliance members, analysing each other’s robots to divide tasks based on their strengths. For instance, they shared that their robot excelled in carrying and offloading tasks, so they focused on perfecting that function. They also described how they made real-time adjustments to their robot throughout the competition to stay competitive. Mr. Rafael Fumis, MODEC’s Country Manager, spoke with the team and drew parallels between the robotics work and the tasks performed in the offshore oil and gas industry. “The work you’re doing here is very similar to what we do in our operations,” he said. “On our offshore platforms, we control thousands of valves through CPUs like the one in your robot. We analyze data from various sensors, and those valves react to maintain the process table. The skills you are learning here are directly applicable to the work we do. Additionally, we use robots and drones for inspections and 3D modeling, so what you’re learning will undoubtedly make a difference in your future careers. Well done!” Alisha Koulen, Operations Manager at STEMGuyana, took the opportunity to brief the MODEC team on the various programs offered by STEMGuyana, including STEM Clubs, Learning Pods, National Competitions, the STEMGuyana Innovation Expo, the Robin the Robot TV Program, the Parent Academy, the Virtual Academy, and the Summer Camps. Elsie Harry, Board Member and Fundraising Coordinator for STEMGuyana, highlighted the relevance of the students’ STEM education to the growing demands of the oil and gas sector. She recalled that several STEMGuyana alumni had been recruited by companies within the industry. She also suggested that, when MODEC’s FPSO unit arrives in Guyana, it would be an exciting opportunity for the robotics students to visit and witness its operations firsthand. Mr. Fumis welcomed the idea, as did the students, who were eager for the potential learning experience. Lakesha McArthur, who served as the robot driver during the First Global Challenge, expressed her heartfelt thanks to MODEC Guyana Inc. for their generous sponsorship and presented the MODEC team with STEMGuyana memorabilia as a token of appreciation.Team Guyana Robotics 2024’s participation in the Athens Challenge was made possible through the generous support and sponsorship of several key contributors. Special thanks to Minister Frank Anthony, Ms. Malvie Talbot from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Education, the First Global Organization, MODEC, and the parents of our team members. We also extend our gratitude to local restaurants—Starbucks, Big Kahuna, and Saboor—for providing snacks for the team. Finally, we deeply appreciate the dedication of our mentors, who invested countless hours guiding the team through the process of building their robot. Related Similar Articles

GBA remembers late TD Terrence Poole MS Oct 10, 2024 Sports Kaieteur Sports – The Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) hosted a night of reflection to honour the life and legacy of their late Technical Director, Terrence Anthony Poole, M.S. on Tuesday evening, October 8, at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue, where friends, family, and colleagues gathered and paid their respects. GBA President Steve Ninvalle (left) during the exhibition with Olympian Keevin Allicock at the National Gymnasium Tuesday. Poole passed away last Wednesday after experiencing breathing difficulties. He was taken to a medical facility, but despite efforts, he passed at the age of 60. For over four decades, Poole was a pivotal figure in the boxing community. His commitment to the sport was unparalleled, as he played various roles, including coach, competition coordinator, mentor, and Technical Director of the GBA. He also served as National Coach and coach at the Guyana Defence Force Boxing Gym. His efforts were instrumental in shaping the careers of many young boxers and advancing the sport both in Guyana and across the Caribbean. Many boxers and fans and persons associated with the sport trekked to the Gymnasium and was a part of the activity there. A mini boxing exhibition saw Head of the GBA and current Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle and Olympian Keevin Allicock took to the ring as they performed in a sparring session in memory of one of Guyana’s leading boxing trainers, Terrence Poole. It was a somber but fun evening as many remembered their interaction with Poole. He is mourned by his wife, seven children, and numerous friends, along with the many lives he touched during his 60 years. Poole will be remembered as a brother, friend, father, mentor, and most significantly, a coach. His contributions to boxing will continue to inspire future generations here and beyond. Terrence Poole was born on January 16, 1964, and passed away on October 2, 2024. May his soul, rest in peace.   Related Similar Articles

World Bank urges LAC countries to leverage economic gains for growth Oct 10, 2024 News …publish new report Kaieteur News – On Thursday, the World Bank unveiled its new report which urges the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region to seize the momentum to accelerate growth. The report titled, “Taxing Wealth for Equity and Growth” outlines that the LAC region is expected to grow by 1.9 percent this year, slightly exceeding previous estimates. In 2025, the region is forecast to grow by 2.6 percent, the lowest rates among all global regions. The Bank says that the U.S. Federal Reserve’s recent decision to lower interest rates coupled with slowing inflation in several LAC countries, is expected to provide some relief to the region, and presents an opportunity to attract much-needed investment. “The region has made strides in managing inflation and stabilizing its macroeconomic environment. This is a crucial moment to leverage these achievements to attract the investments necessary for sustainable development, foster innovation, build human capital, create more and better jobs, and empower the region to break free from this low-growth cycle,” said Carlos Felipe Jaramillo, World Bank Vice President for Latin America and the Caribbean. The report highlights that despite favorable conditions, both public and private investments in LAC remain low. With the region facing structural challenges, the Bank warned that without capitalising on current economic momentum, LAC risks remaining stuck in a low-growth cycle. It was outlined that the region is not fully capitalising on nearshoring opportunities, which could boost its economic outlook. Foreign direct investment (FDI) levels are below what they were 13 years ago, and new investment projects are favouring other regions, despite competitive wages. The Bank highlighted several factors, including high capital costs, weak education systems, underdeveloped infrastructure, and social instability, are diminishing the region’s attractiveness as a nearshoring destination. “Seizing LAC’s major windows of opportunity, the green transition and the nearshoring movement, requires structural reforms across the board to make the region more productive and competitive. This will require generating more fiscal space, improving government efficacy, as well as reducing the tax burden on the productive sectors. This is a good time for the region to reconsider how its tax systems can best generate revenue while stimulating growth and advancing equity,” said William Maloney, World Bank Chief Economist for Latin America and the Caribbean. Moreover, the report also explores how wealth taxes could help the region create fiscal space while promoting growth and reducing inequality. LAC’s debt-to-GDP ratio rose to 62.8 percent in 2024, limiting governments’ ability to increase public investment. Closing this gap requires reforms in revenue collection and spending efficiency, according to the World Bank. Notably, the Bank outlined that while LAC imposes some of the highest corporate tax rates globally, it collects only 2.7 percent of its revenues from wealth taxes, compared to higher rates in North America and Europe. One area of potential reform is property taxes. Despite real estate holding 80 percent of the region’s wealth, only 2 percent of tax revenues come from property taxes. The report recommends modernising property valuation systems and improving tax collection efforts that could help LAC countries raise significant revenue, potentially contributing up to 3 percent of GDP. This, it was stated, could empower local governments and reduce the fiscal burden on businesses. However, it was highlighted that reforms must be carefully designed to avoid overburdening low-income property owners.   Related Similar Articles

Elton Dharry now ranked Number 4 by the WBA, moves closer to title shot Oct 10, 2024 Sports Kaieteur Sports – Although possessing several amateur boxers of international ranking and repute, Guyana’s lone world-ranked professional pugilist, Elton ‘Coolie Bully’ Dharry, moved one step closer to acquiring a world title fight as he was ranked #4 in the super-flyweight division by renowned sanctioning entity, the World Boxing Association (WBA). Elton ‘Coolie Bully’ Dharry (centre) is flanked by Minister Charles Ramson Jnr. (left) and Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle. Dharry, 38, sports a record of 28 wins [15 knockouts], six losses, and one no-contest. In his most recent encounter, Dharry defeated local prize-fighter Dexter Marques on local soil via technical knockout in the third round. Dharry is undefeated in his last four bouts. The Enterprise on the East Coast of Demerara native fought for the WBA Super Flyweight title in 2019 but suffered a controversial ninth-round stoppage defeat to Australian Andrew Maloney in Melbourne. Given his recent elevation, Dharry is expected to challenge once again for a world title. If a world title fight and eventual victory are realised, the extraordinary feat will solidify his status in the annals of time and place him amongst revered company such as the late Andrew ‘Six Head’ Lewis, Wayne ‘Big Truck’ Brathwaite, Vivian Harris, Gwendolyn ‘Stealth Bomber’ O’Neil, and Gary St. Clair. Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle said, “This is a significant development for Elton Dharry and the nation as a whole. We believe that Dharry, who is a student of the game, is now worthy for another Crack at a world title.” Related Similar Articles

Elton Dharry now ranked Number 4 by the WBA Oct 10, 2024 Sports …Noves closer to title shot  Elton Dharry now ranked Number 4 by the WBA Kaieteur Sports – Although possessing several amateur boxers of international ranking and repute, Guyana’s lone world-ranked professional pugilist, Elton ‘Coolie Bully’ Dharry, moved one step closer to acquiring a world title fight as he was ranked #4 in the super-flyweight division by renowned sanctioning entity, the World Boxing Association (WBA). Elton ‘Coolie Bully’ Dharry (centre) is flanked by Minister Charles Ramson Jnr. (left) and Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle. Dharry, 38, sports a record of 28 wins [15 knockouts], six losses, and one no-contest. In his most recent encounter, Dharry defeated local prize-fighter Dexter Marques on local soil via technical knockout in the third round. Dharry is undefeated in his last four bouts. The Enterprise on the East Coast of Demerara native fought for the WBA Super Flyweight title in 2019 but suffered a controversial ninth-round stoppage defeat to Australian Andrew Maloney in Melbourne. With Dharry’s recent elevation, he is expected to challenge for a world title again.  If a world title fight and eventual victory are realised, the extraordinary feat will solidify his status in the annals of time and place him amongst revered company such as the late Andrew ‘Six Head’ Lewis, Wayne ‘Big Truck’ Brathwaite, Vivian Harris, Gwendolyn ‘Stealth Bomber’ O’Neil, and Gary St. Clair. Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle said, “This is a significant development for Elton Dharry and the nation as a whole. We believe that Dharry, who is a student of the game, is now worthy for another Crack at a world title.” (Elton Dharry now ranked Number 4 by the WBA, moves closer to title shot) Related Similar Articles

Census numbers: publish please Oct 10, 2024 News, The GHK Lall Column Kaieteur News – All three major parties are driving their stake in the ground from today.  They are going to win the elections coming up in 2025. Looks like it is going to be that kind of election season- a torrid one.  More considerate in the first quarter, since the fourth quarter is now so unbearably heated.  The key resides in the numbers, which is where things have gotten a shade backed up.  The census, what is happening there?  If it was favorable to we-know-who, a gag order couldn’t keep silent.  Why then is there this question about the census two years later?  What does this say about the big people being so torn about the census results say that they sit on them, as if their life hinged on doing so. Political life, to make things clear, which in Guyana is dearer than regular life.  Uncharacteristic is what I say with this delay.  If, however, there is that telling reason for foot-dragging by the political wise guys with all at their fingertips, then the whole story is less a mystery and more about the pragmatism of basic commonsense. There is the sense in this corner of the ring that the demographics are closer between the major ethnicities.  In a word, migration is a big contributor, the biggest.  In a string of words, the narrowing of the population composition between Guyanese of Indian Descent and Guyanese of African Descent (the hope is that that has been hit plum on the head) because of uninterrupted migration by the thousands for years.  Focusing on the good ole USA alone, and a reasonably sizable dent in one particular ethnicity is believed to have occurred when this is added up.  No Guyanese is heading in the direction of Caracas, but the opposite still happens towards Toronto and Paramaribo, and other parts.  From an empirical perspective, almost all the ethnicities try their hand for greener pastures there may be elsewhere. As good as things are and considering who are the kings of the local castle, it is a matter of ongoing domestic conversation that the people of the political party in power are the ones in the front ranks of the exodus to external shores.  Though there may be some risk of underestimation, things are ruff and tuff for those traditionally aligned with the now opposition, but their presence in the dark tide of emigration ranks lesser on all scales.  The smart money (meaning here) says that inroads of a not insignificant nature have been made into the ruling party’s percentage of supporters.  The take in this neighborhood is that this explains the ongoing resistance to remove the veil and let the census numbers shine through.  What mischief could be afoot through withholding them?  What value gained, other than spur the competition to greater conviction that there are intentions to lay the groundwork for new electoral experimentation and adventurism.  Ill-advised, it may be squeezed in, given the air of rawness that already graces next year’s much-anticipated and much-watched proceedings. Note has been made of the two opposition parties stoutly asserting their confidence to get across the finish line ahead of the pack and, rather staggeringly, on their own.  What do they know that nobody else does?  The old US was hung-up on inclusivity equity in distribution, and clean governance.  The people running the show today haven’t done too well on all three counts.  More caustically, they have done rather poorly.  A point of consideration around here is how much is the United States exercised about corruption in Guyana.  Corruption is so bad that even the grandmothers of the more rollicking participants in that national sport [corruption] would be forced to admit sheepishly that their own have helped themselves.  Corruption at high levels, with a meager few untainted, and across the 83,000 square tableland with more financial criminals than wedding house and supermarket ones, is where both knowing locals and all-seeing foreigners are parked.  Buying stuff (procurement).  Selling arrangements (self for a price, services with ribbons).  Barter deals (quid pro quo).  Seed money (incentives).  Vulture capital (political rewards).  All those are highfliers, quite the public secret in Guyana.  The old America was vocal, the new America seems to prefer not to be so local.  When the not-so-new chief official resident from DC is seen and heard, a WhatsApp would be hospitably received.  Nobaady sayin diddly squat. In addition to census numbers tightening, and corruption as the other Achilles heel in what is a four-legged upright walking beast, loss of respect is another, with disappearance of trust bringing up the rear.  According to the expert prognosticators, Guyana is delicately perched, and any little disruption in the atmosphere could be impactful. This is not conducive to the type of tranquil climate that one domestic big dawg favors.  From a pure numerical perspective, ballot box realities went from razor thin to razor grass.  Anyone in the vicinity gets slashed.  Franchisees have already been conditioned about bloated lists and bad behaviors during the last bout of fisticuffs in 2020. Forewarned is forearmed.  He who falls for the same tricks a second time deserves to be in the runners-up enclosure.  Silver doesn’t mean, argh, spit.  With the latest census believed to be where it is, and all the other factors (internal and external), is the ground set for a joint handshake come 2025?  Pick any month but be assured of this one thing.  Five more years of demagoguery, waiting for a handout, being kicked around, and treated any old how do not inspire as such a democratic proposition any longer.  Nor an acceptable environmental and social condition going forward. Related Similar Articles

Defending Mr. Physique champ beaming with confidence  Oct 10, 2024 Sports CAC Body Building & Fitness C/ ships… Kaieteur News – Defending Central American & Caribbean (CAC) Body Building & Fitness Championships Gold Medallist Emmerson Campbell, who captured the title in Aruba last year, is beaming with confidence ahead of this year’s event slated to be staged right here in Guyana. Emmerson Campbell showcasing his ripped physique ahead of the 2024 CAC C/ships. Speaking recently about his preparations, the reigning champion said his training has been going well and he is ready and confident to defend his title and win the Pro Card. “My supplementation, cardio, lifting weights has gone well, everything is as it should be, not much I can complain about at my end, I’m ready and confident to claim gold once again,” Campbell said. According to Campbell, who displayed his ripped and well-defined body, this year will be his seventh at CAC and to win the Pro Card in front of my family, friends and the Guyanese public will be an outstanding achievement and an elated one for him. “To be honest last year I thought I won the Overall and Pro Card and when I heard the name of the eventual winner, I was a bit shocked, but I said you know what I am going to improve all aspects of my physique, size, symmetry, conditioning and everything so that I cannot be denied this year,” Campbell reflected. Returning home, Campbell said he made the decision to put my head down and train his body to not only improve one part, but every aspect of his physique and according to him he has achieved that goal, especially his back. “I cannot wait to get on stage and showcase my hard work and I want to encourage everyone to come out and support the event and the Guyanese athletes and make it a memorable occasion.” The c/ships will be staged on October 19-20 at the National Cultural Centre and over 250 athletes from 20 countries including Guyana are scheduled to participate. Among the sponsors on board are Fitness Express, Twins Manufacturing, the Ministry of Culture, Youth & Sport, the National Sports Commission and the Guyana Olympic Association. Related Similar Articles