The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) last week concluded its National Quality Week (NQW) celebrations, which remarkably highlighted its support to businesses implementing standards. During the week businesses were also recognized for the vital role they play in providing quality goods and services across various sectors of the economy.
The highlight of the week of activities was the prestigious fourth National Quality Awards (NQA), held on October 11. The NQA, a bi-annual event, recognizes and honors businesses that have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to quality in their products and services. These awards serve as a benchmark for excellence, motivating companies to strive for higher standards and continually improve their processes. The NQA not only celebrates past achievements but also inspires businesses to reach new heights in Quality Management.
This year’s distinguished awardees hailed from various sectors including manufacturing and Agro-Processing. The awardees were Massy Gas Products, Banks DIH Limited, Sterling Products Limited, New GPC Inc., NAMILCO, Basdeo’s Dynasty, Massy Distribution, St. Joseph’s Mercy Hospital, MACORP, Guyana Deepwater Inc., Guyana Shore Base Inc., D&S Ramdeholl & Sons Jewellery, Denmor Garments Inc., Doobay-Gafoor Medical and Research Centre Inc., Industrial Supply of Guyana Inc., Quest Medical Centre, ActionInvest Caribbean Inc., and Woodlands Limited (Pathology Laboratory). The awardees were elated at their achievement.
In keeping with this year’s theme “Shared Vision for a Better World: Incorporating SDG 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing),” the GNBS also hosted a successful Laboratory Symposium, which brought together approximately 65 laboratory personnel from clinical and testing laboratories in the Public and Private sectors. Participants were exposed to information on the National Standard, General requirements for the operations of a laboratory (GYS 170:2021), the GNBS Laboratory Certification programme, and the requirements of other international laboratory standards. Information was also provided by the Standards and Technical Services Unit of the Ministry of Health on the technical and regulatory requirements for laboratories, and the Department of Labour provided information on the requisite OSH Practices.
In addition, a free Food Safety training for small business owners involved in the preparation and delivery of food to consumers was held on October 12. The training, which was collaboratively conducted with the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), benefitted 30 participants. Topics covered included good hygiene and storage practices along with other food safety requirements.
The Bureau also successfully organized an Impromptu Speech Competition on October 12 to promote the importance of standards and quality to school-aged students. There were four schools involved in the competition hosted in Region Three (Essequibo Islands- West Demerara) with the West Demerara Secondary School walking away with the winning trophy and the best performing student’s prize. Second place was copped by Patentia Secondary School which was also awarded a trophy. In addition, each school received a certificate of participation while the students received a token from the GNBS.
On Friday, October 13, the Bureau held its Staff Appreciation and Awards to honour employees who have tirelessly contributed to the GNBS over the years. National Quality Week which serves as a reminder of the importance of quality in every aspect of our lives, culminated on World Standards Day with a message from the GNBS’ Executive Director (Ag.).
The GNBS will continue to observe NQW annually to encourage businesses to aim for excellence, professionals to stay informed and innovative, and individuals to be aware of the impact of Standards on their daily lives. By hosting these activities, the GNBS has once again demonstrated its dedication to building a quality-driven future for Guyana.
For further information, contact the GNBS on telephone numbers: 219-0064/65//66, hotline 219-0069 or WhatsApp us on 692-4627.
