5 young Guyanese innovators to represent Guyana at IGO in London

Guyana’s groundbreaking National Learning Pods Program is once again putting the nation on the global map. A team of five young innovators and their dedicated coaches will proudly represent Guyana at the International Greenwich Olympiad (IGO) in London, one of the world’s most prestigious showcases for student excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

This historic moment is powered by the success of the Learning Pods initiative, a nationwide education support program designed to close academic gaps through hands-on, tech-enabled learning. Sponsored by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Scotiabank, and MODEC, the program has empowered thousands of students across the country, including this year’s IGO delegation, from Regions 2 and 7.

At the heart of this achievement are two remarkable educators: Miss Sharmala Singh, who leads the Mainstay Lake Learning Pod on the Essequibo Coast, and Ms. Colette Ault, who heads the Bartica Mayor’s Office Learning Pod. These devoted coaches have spent years mentoring students, building their confidence and sharpening their skills in STEM, teamwork, and innovation. Their tireless commitment has earned their students; Rylon Williams, Tyra Stephney, and Ili Jarvis, a place on the international stage.

“This group reflects some of the committed and hardworking members of our program,” said Karen Abrams, Director of STEMGuyana, which trains and manages the Learning Pods and the IGO team. “We are proud to identify, prepare and empower young people from underrepresented regions and give them the opportunity to shine. Many of these students have been with us for three years, they’re prepared, passionate, and worthy of the challenge.”

The team’s journey to London is made possible by the generous support of the Guyana Diaspora, local families and contributions from the Ministry of Education, Office of the Prime Minister, Office of the Vice President, and the Ministry of Local Government. Together, these partners are demonstrating a united national commitment to preparing Guyana’s youth for leadership in a global, technology-driven future.

Beyond competition, participation in IGO is transformational. Students gain global exposure, enhance their university applications, and develop life-changing skills such as public speaking, intercultural communication, and independent thinking. Their trip to London will be more than a showcase, it will be a defining chapter in their personal and academic growth.

As Guyana prepares to wave its Golden Arrowhead proudly on the international stage, the nation is invited to rally behind these exceptional young ambassadors, and the remarkable coaches guiding them, who embody the promise of a smarter, more innovative future. [Press Release]