September 5, 2023
On Sunday May 21, 2023 a horrific fire engulfed a school dormitory at the Mahdia Secondary School in Guyana, taking the lives of twenty (20) children (nineteen female students and the son of a school administrator). This tragic incident has shaken the entire region. As we look forward to the start of a new academic year, the OECS continues to reflect on the tragedy and pays tribute to the lives that were lost.
It was with profound sadness that we learnt of the tragic fire at the school in the central Guyanese mining town of Mahdia that claimed the lives of nineteen children.
We can only imagine the immeasurable pain and grief experienced by their parents, their peers and teachers, the community, the Ministry and indeed the nation. The shock and agony of this heart-rending incident will take some time to subside. This incident has moved us into a solemn reflection on the lessons that we should all take in promoting a culture of safety at our schools. We extend heartfelt sympathy and solidarity to the Government, victims, families and people of Guyana as they come to terms with this heartbreaking situation.
-Director General of the OECS, Dr Didacus Jules
Schools from OECS Member States contributed to the following compilation of Letters, Posters, Cards and Videos to express condolences, empathy and solidarity with the people of Guyana. The OECS Commission is deeply moved by this outpouring expression of compassion by our young citizens.