NCERD Social Studies Expo Paves the Way for Transformative Education
Written by EDYOU FM Staff on November 27, 2024
The National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD) recently concluded its inaugural Social Studies Expo, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing Social Studies education in Guyana. Held from November 11 to 13, 2024, at NCERD’s headquarters on Battery Road, Kingston Georgetown, the three-day event brought together students and educators, for immersive activities designed to inspire creativity and foster critical thinking.
Under the theme “Igniting Minds, Transforming Societies,” the expo emphasized innovative teaching methods and civic responsibility while celebrating improvements in students’ performances.
The expo showcased a variety of booths offering hands-on activities to engage participants in exploring Social Studies, geography, and Caribbean history. The Booths displayed represented key aspects of various Departments and divisions, including:
Primary and Secondary Divisions, showcasing strategies to boost student performance.
EdYou FM offered transformative insight on the role of radio in enhancing classroom education, offering accessible and engaging content. EdYou FM also promoted its mobile app, EdPal, which is an extension of the station. EdPal is designed to provide students with easy and flexible access to educational materials anytime, anywhere.
The Guyana Learning Channel participated in the exhibition as well, featuring multimedia tools designed for dynamic teaching and learning.
Various subject units of NCERD, namely Mathematics, English, Science, Early Education, Measurement and Evaluation, the Learning Resources Development Unit (LRDU), Special Education Needs (SEN), and Continuous Professional Development (CPD) were also present at the event.
These interactive stations provided opportunities for both students and teachers to explore innovative resources aimed at improving learning in the whole. These booths also prepared educators for upcoming changes in the Social Studies syllabus, set to take effect in 2025.
NCERD Director Oma Ramdin shared the broader goals of the event: “This is not just about preparing students for exams. It is about creating responsible, civic-minded individuals who can contribute positively to society.”
Senior Education Officer Shemlyn Batson-Andrews noted the expo’s role in making education engaging and impactful. “Learners will engage in activities that boost retention, improve performance, and create an enjoyable learning environment,” she said.
Assistant Chief Education Officer (ACEO) for Secondary, Sherwyn Blackman, also emphasized the importance of Social Studies in decision-making. He explained that the subject lays the foundation for informed decision-making, and enables students to make a positive matk on society.
The expo also celebrated improvements in Social Studies pass rates. At the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), performance has increased significantly from 17% to 52%, while the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) saw an increase from 53% to 58%, reflecting the success of targeted curriculum development and teacher training efforts.
As the first of its kind, the Social Studies Expo left a meaningful impression on all participants. By merging academic goals with a focus on responsibility, layering the groundwork for a transformative education in Guyana.
