The Guyana National Bureau of Standards joins other measurement institutions across the globe to observe World Metrology Day (WMD) on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. This is an annual occasion, and this year marks 150 years since the signature of the Metre Convention on 20 May 1875 by representatives of seventeen nations. The Convention sets the framework for global collaboration in the science of measurement and in its industrial, commercial and societal applications.
The 2025 theme is “Measurements for all times, for all people”. This theme was chosen to highlight the importance of measurements in shaping our past, present and future. According to the International Organisation for Legal Metrology (OIML), “The theme also emphasizes inclusivity, recognizing that reliable and traceable measurements are essential for fostering equity and improving the quality of life for all people, everywhere.”
The OIML aims to make World Metrology Day 2025 the core of events to celebrate a century and a half of international collaboration in Metrology. This collaboration ranges from ensuring fair trade and advancing scientific discoveries to addressing global challenges like climate change and public health. In many spheres, measurements have been fundamental for progress and innovation.
The GNBS continues to advocate for the use of the International System of Units (SI), commonly known as the metric system, in Guyana. Most countries have already fully adopted this measurement system or are far on the path to doing so. The SI of measurements is made up of seven (7) base units including the Metre for length, the Kilogram for mass, and the Second for time. This measurements system plays an essential role in international commerce and is commonly used in scientific and technological research, trading and development.
Today, none of us can divorce our daily lives from acts of measurements. Almost everything we do involves some form of it. For example, determining the duration of an activity or when that activity should occur is usually important and this involves the measurement of time. In addition, the water and electricity we use in our homes are metered (measured) and many of us are often mindful of how much we consume to keep costs down.
To boost Metrology in Guyana and to increase access to reliable verification and calibration services, the GNBS recently became the beneficiary of a new modernized facility comprising of twenty-six laboratories that include laboratories for dimension and torque calibration, and electricity and moisture meter verification. The establishment of this modern infrastructure is part of the Government’s mission to improve access by those in industry, commerce, health, law enforcement and more, to traceable and reliable measurement services. These services also help to protect consumers.
To observe World Metrology Day 2025, the Bureau has planned several activities including a workshop for students of technical institutes across Guyana, the publication of media messages, school lectures and direct engagements with the public in various administrative regions.
Finally, with its mandate to provide measurements services, GNBS will continue to expand its scope and variety of services to meet the needs of stakeholders, ensuring all benefit. To learn more about the available services and more, please visit the GNBS website: www.gnbsgy.org.
