When 12-year-old Khary Boyer of Wanaina Hill, North West District received his results for the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), he was overjoyed. He was even more elated when he was informed that he was the top student for Region One (Barima/Waini) obtaining 522 marks at the assessment.
Speaking to Stabroek News recently on his achievement, the young man said that though he had done well at the assessment, he was unsure whether he would be able to attend St Roses High School in Georgetown in the new school year. His mother June Mendonca told this newspaper that his eldest sister lives on the East Coast Demerara but it may be difficult for her to take care of her brother who she said will have to adapt to life in the city.
Boyer was optimistic, however, stating that he is hopes something positive will happen within the next month where relocating to Georgetown is concerned.
Boyer, who is the youngest of five children, said he travelled to Georgetown for Mashramani celebrations last year for the first time and would relish the opportunity of attending school in the capital city.
Reflecting on his preparations for the NGSA, Boyer said he studied during the night between 7 and 9 o’clock and also prepared for the next school day during this time. He said he placed a lot of emphasis on his school work since he wanted to be a role model for other children living in his community. The well-spoken young man said he would walk about four miles each day to the Hosororo Primary School accompanied by his siblings and friends.
His mother related that her youngest child is special, noting that while he attended nursery school he used to read a lot. She said he would wake up early in the mornings and sit near her as she did her normal daily chores and read to her. She believes this may have contributed to his success at the NGSA.
According to a retired educator, Ms Bernice Pierre, who lives in the Mabaruma Sub-Region, Boyer is an outstanding student and while other students in the area had done well in the past at the Common Entrance Exams, his performance at the NGSA was a standout as far as she can recall.
Boyer is set to attend his school’s graduation ceremony some time this week where he is slated to receive a few awards in honour of his achievement. He is one of a few hinterland students who achieved good grades at this year’s assessment.
