Guyana’s creative arts sector marked a milestone with the graduation of the 10th cohort of the Institute of Creative Arts (ICA), but the achievement also highlights the determination of artists and cultural practitioners to secure greater recognition, inclusion and respect for their professions.
The graduation ceremony, held Thursday, October 15, at the National Cultural Centre, saw students from the National School of Dance, E.R. Burrowes School of Art, National School of Music, and National School of Theatre Arts and Drama receive associate degrees.
The qualifications represent an important achievement for graduates, particularly those who have spent years developing their craft in fields that have not always received the same recognition afforded to other professional disciplines.
For many in the creative sector, the struggle extends beyond acquiring qualifications. Artists have also had to press for their work to be taken seriously, their skills to be valued and creative careers to be treated as legitimate professional pathways.
The graduates’ achievement is therefore not simply a reflection of institutional development. It also speaks to the persistence of those who have continued to pursue their artistic ambitions and demand greater respect for their professions.
Among the graduates was Latifa Agard, valedictorian of the National School of Theatre Arts and Drama, who earned an Associate of Arts in Theatre Arts and Drama with distinction.
“What began as a diploma pathway developed into an opportunity to achieve something historic, becoming the first to earn an associate degree in theatre arts and drama with distinction right here in Guyana,” Agard said.
Her achievement underscores the importance of creating pathways through which artists can develop their skills, earn recognised qualifications and demonstrate that creative work demands discipline, training and professional commitment.
Joanna Edwards, a member of the first batch of graduates from the E.R. Burrowes School of Art, also reached the milestone while balancing motherhood with full-time teaching. Her journey reflects the commitment and sacrifices often required of people pursuing artistic development alongside family and professional responsibilities.
During the ceremony, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Steven Jacobs spoke about the need for graduates to have real opportunities to showcase their talents.
Initiatives such as Live Art on Main Street and preparations for CARIFESTA 2027 have featured in discussions about opportunities for artists. Consultations on the so-called orange economy have also placed creative industries within wider conversations about economic activity.
However, the significance of the graduates’ achievement should not be reduced to government initiatives or presented as evidence that the challenges facing artists have been resolved. Recognition must extend beyond graduation ceremonies and public announcements to fair opportunities, professional respect, sustainable livelihoods and meaningful inclusion in national development.
For artists, the issue has long been about more than training. It is about being recognised as professionals whose work contributes to Guyana’s cultural identity and deserves to be valued accordingly.
The 10th ICA cohort has demonstrated what can be achieved through artistic commitment and perseverance. The real test is whether graduates and other creative practitioners will receive the respect, opportunities and support necessary to build sustainable careers in Guyana.
