Dear Editor,
Guyana’s National Awards are a way to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the country’s development.
The awards are conferred by the President, who is also the Chancellor of the Orders of Guyana, TO BE ANNOUNCED ANNUALLY FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY MAY 26TH. In place of February 23 REPUBLIC DAY.
OPENING the nomination process to the PUBLIC can increase engagement and ensure deserving individuals are recognized.
Nomination Process:
1. NATIONAL AWARD Online Platform: Create a dedicated webpage on the official government website (e.g., (link unavailable)) SIMILAR to University of Guyana for NOMINATION FOR HONORARY DEGREE
2. Nomination Form: Develop an easy-to-use online form allowing users to submit nominations with:
– Nominee’s name and contact information
– Category or area of contribution
– Brief description of achievements (max 500 words)
– Supporting documents or links (optional)
3. Eligibility Criteria: Clearly outline eligibility criteria, including citizenship, residency, and contribution requirements.
4. Nomination Period: Set a specific period (e.g., January 1 – March 31) for public nominations.
5. Review Committee: Establish a committee to review nominations, verify information, and recommend awardees.
BENEFITS
– Increased transparency and public engagement
– Broader pool of potential awardees
– Recognition of unsung heroes and community leaders
Challenges:
– Ensuring nomination quality and accuracy
– Managing volume of nominations
– Addressing potential biases or conflicts
Mitigation Strategies:
– Implement a robust review process
– Use clear guidelines and criteria
– Consider anonymous or blind review options
VETTING PROCESS:
1. Initial Screening: Review nominations for completeness, eligibility, and adherence to criteria.
2. Verification: Verify nominee information, including:
– Contact details
– Achievements
– Contributions
3. Reference Checks: Contact references or supporters to confirm nominee’s work and impact.
4. Committee Review: A panel reviews vetted nominations, scoring against clear criteria.
5. Shortlisting: Top candidates are shortlisted for further consideration.
6. Final Review: A final review ensures accuracy and fairness before recommending awardees.
Vetting Committee:
– Include experts from relevant fields
– Representatives from government, academia, and civil society
– Ensure diversity and impartiality
Criteria:
– Clearly define evaluation criteria, such as:
– Impact and significance of contributions
– Innovation and creativity
– Leadership and community involvement
– Achievements and recognition
TRANSPARENCY
– Publish vetting process and criteria ONLINE
– Provide feedback to nominees (optional)
– Ensure confidentiality and data protection
The NATIONAL AWARDS including:
– Order of Excellence of Guyana: The highest national award, limited to 25 living citizens, recognizing exceptional distinction in any field.
– Order of Roraima of Guyana: The second-highest award, limited to 35 living citizens, recognizing outstanding service to the nation.
– Cacique’s Crown of Honour: Recognizing exceptional contributions to the nation.
– Disciplined Services Medal for Long Service and Good Conduct: Recognizing dedicated service in the disciplined services.
Be assured of My Highest Considerations
Prof. Dr. Shamir Andrew Ally
President/CEO, International Consulting Services
Former SECOND Guyana Ambassador to Kuwait
Former FIRST Alternate Governor at Islamic Development Bank, Jeddah, KSA
