By Samuel Gillis
The culmination of the Whiz Kids competition at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre marked a momentous celebration of academic talent and dedication among Guyana’s youth.
Whiz Kids, an engaging game show tailored by the Ministry of Education’s Guyana Learning Channel, aimed to challenge students gearing up for their National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) in May. With categories spanning English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies, the competition tested participants’ knowledge and speed in core subjects.
This year’s finalists, including Oshen Sooknanan from Qayyim Academy, Regan Beckles from Friendship Primary, and Rachel Sawh from Montrose Primary, showcased remarkable skills throughout the competition.
Ultimately, Sooknanan emerged as the Whiz Kids Champion 2024, earning recognition for his outstanding academic performance.
Whiz Kids has consistently provided a platform for some of Guyana’s brightest young minds to demonstrate their academic prowess and readiness for future challenges.
Minister of Education Priya Manickchand’s presence at the event highlighted the significance of such initiatives, especially amid challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Minister Manickchand emphasized the ministry’s commitment to supporting students through diverse educational avenues.
The event garnered overwhelming support from parents and guardians, acknowledging the competition’s value in helping students identify their strengths and areas for improvement as they prepare for the NGSA.
Radha Boodhoo, a parent of a former contestant, shared insights on how Whiz Kids motivates students to assess their academic skills and strive for excellence.
Manique Hyman, a teacher from Montrose Primary School, praised Whiz Kids for complementing classroom learning and effectively preparing students for the rigors of the NGSA.
As Whiz Kids enters its third season, it continues to serve as a crucial platform for nurturing academic excellence and fostering a culture of learning among Guyana’s youth.