Guyana’s future will not be determined by oil wealth, but by the character & education of its people – Parag

The future of Guyana will not be determined by oil revenues, but by the quality, character and education of its people, Minister of Education Sonia Parag declared this morning during a moving charge to the Queen’s College Graduating Class of 2026.

Addressing the 233 graduates, cabinet colleagues and school officials, the Minister emphasised that while the nation’s rapid economic development draws global attention, true national progress depends heavily on human capital rather than natural resources.

“The Guyana you inherit is one that is developing rapidly,” Minister Parag said, noting that while comparisons to global hubs like Singapore or Dubai are flattering, sustainable development relies entirely on individual grit and commitment.

Taking into account that this year marks Guyana’s 60th anniversary of independence, Minister Parag challenged the graduates to drive this momentum by qualifying themselves to take up critical roles across all burgeoning sectors, including engineering, technology, logistics, agriculture, healthcare and finance.

Of the total cohort, 83 students successfully completed the sixth form, while 150 graduated from Grade 11. Acknowledging the institution’s notable legacy, Minister Parag praised Queen’s College for its historical role in producing brilliant national leaders and its ongoing capacity to prepare students to contribute meaningfully to a rapidly modernising society.

In a light-hearted yet candid moment, the Minister cautioned the graduates against rushing into adulthood, which often comes with big responsibilities. She even joked that the glamour of adulthood is greatly exaggerated. “What is the rush?” she asked, urging the students to enjoy their youth, remain curious and focus on building personal integrity. “Qualifications are important,” Parag reminded, “but character is what determines how those qualifications are used.”

Referencing the notable surge in Guyanese capitalising on the many opportunities for a wholesome tertiary education, Minister Parag urged the students to join these expanding ranks by pursuing future government scholarships, research and leadership prospects.

Minister Parag went further to highlight the 3,876 Guyanese from all across the country who recently graduated from the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) just yesterday, as well as the approximately 3,600 students who graduated from the University of Guyana last year—the largest batch in that institution’s history.

The minister described education as an irreplaceable gift that opens doors and expands horizons for a lifetime. “No electronic device, no expensive gift and no material possession can compare to the value of an education.”

Minister Parag concluded by recognising the input of parents and teachers behind every student. She also commended the principal, Mrs Donna Lewis-Isles, alongside her teaching staff for their enduring influence ahead of the highly anticipated release of the CSEC and CAPE results this coming August.