The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), in continued collaboration with the Ministry of Education, on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, launched three new Harmony Clubs at Corriverton Primary, Rose Hall Town Primary and All Saints Primary Schools in Region Six (East Berbice Corentyne). The launches extend the initiative’s reach to 18 primary schools across seven administrative regions.
The ERC delegation was led by Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack and included Commissioners Ras Khafra, and Reverend Alphonso Porter. District Education Officers represented the Ministry of Education, whose support remains central to the programme’s implementation in schools.
Addressing pupils, Chairman Hack underscored that harmony must first be practised at home and then carried into schools and communities. He encouraged children to respect their parents and elders and to recognise that differences need not prevent people from working together. Using the fingers of one hand as an example, he reminded pupils that although each finger is different, all are needed to accomplish a common purpose.
At Corriverton Primary, Commissioner Porter urged pupils to make harmony a lasting commitment as they progress through school and into adulthood. He reminded them that each child has a role in creating a peaceful school and, ultimately, a more united country.
Commissioner Khafra reinforced the importance of friendship and respect, cautioning that bullying and conflict can cause real harm and leave children fearful and unsafe in their learning environments.
At the afternoon launch at All Saints Primary, Chairman Hack reiterated that no child should be bullied or treated unfairly because of their differences. Commissioner Porter called on pupils to become ambassadors of harmony, explaining that the Commission depends on young people to help promote good relations in their schools and communities. Commissioner Khafra highlighted Guyana’s diversity and encouraged pupils to appreciate different cultures and belief systems by learning more about one another.
The Ministry of Education also affirmed its support for the initiative. At Rose Hall Town Primary, Headteacher Ms. Rosmaree Lester welcomed the launch, describing it as timely and emphasising the importance of nurturing children from an early age to become ambassadors of unity and respect. Education Officer of Region Six, Ms. Shenellie Jafarally noted that early engagement helps instil values of love and respect among children from different backgrounds. Senior Welfare Officer Mr. Dineshwar Jaiprashad encouraged pupils to promote love, unity and peace in their schools and communities, and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to the programme.
The Harmony Clubs provide pupils with a structured and interactive space to learn about Guyana’s cultural diversity, develop empathy, strengthen cooperation and manage disagreements constructively. Through club activities, children are encouraged to practise kindness and mutual respect, while recognising and rejecting bullying, prejudice and social exclusion.
The ERC’s Harmony Clubs initiative forms part of its wider public education programme to foster peaceful coexistence and strengthen relationships among Guyana’s diverse communities. The Commission will continue working with the Ministry of Education to expand the initiative and encourage young people to become active ambassadors of harmony.
