From Kwakwani to the University of Guyana: Canisha Primo’s Journey of Determination and Growth

Hailing from the close-knit community of Kwakwani in Upper Berbice, Canisha’s journey towards academic and professional success is a powerful testament to the enduring influence of family support, community encouragement, and personal resilience. From the very beginning, education was emphasized as the key to a better life.

Her early academic foundations were laid at Kwakwani Primary School, where the seeds of ambition and dedication were planted. These efforts blossomed further with acceptance into Queen’s College, a prestigious institution where six formative years of mentorship and scholarship support from the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs helped smooth the challenging transition from a hinterland community to the bustling city of Georgetown. Primo later copped a scholarship from Scholarship for Advanced Global Education ( SAGE).

Inspired by the many role models who credited their own success to the University of Guyana (UG), choosing to study there was the natural next step for her. The move, however, was not without difficulties.

The sudden loss of her beloved mother just weeks before starting university meant coping with profound personal grief while navigating an entirely new environment. Relocating to Georgetown to access better internet and university facilities added another layer of challenge to an already demanding schedule of balancing work, studies, and volunteer activities. Despite these trials, the supportive academic environment and access to student groups proved vital, allowing growth not only in knowledge but in life skills and professional networking.

At the University of Guyana, the courses and lecturers played an instrumental role in shaping Canisha’s academic journey. The experience highlighted the importance of a strong network; friends, mentors, and peers who provided encouragement and guidance through the highs and lows.

Engaging actively in student life led to leadership roles and participation in debating competitions, opportunities that enhanced communication, critical thinking, and confidence. These soft skills have become foundational in preparing me for a career, offering invaluable lessons beyond the classroom.

Engaging actively in student life led to leadership roles and participation in debating competitions, opportunities that enhanced communication, critical thinking, and confidence. These soft skills have become foundational in preparing me for a career, offering invaluable lessons beyond the classroom.

For current and future University of Guyana students, Canisha’s advice is clear: take full advantage of all that university life offers, including workshops, clubs, and extracurricular activities. Persistence, organisation, and building strong relationships with lecturers and peers are critical. Above all, belief in oneself and a commitment to academic and personal goals, even when times are tough, can make all the difference.