The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) presented the first recipient of the Chief-of-Staff Award for Academic Excellence to Zonel Hartley.

In a press release, the GDF said Hartley is the daughter of the late army officer Lieutenant Colonel Alonzo Hartley. She was awarded a cheque for $150,000.

The GDF has only recently introduced the award for its members’ children. The minimum eligibility requirement for the award is five grade ones at one sitting for the CSEC examination. Hartley, as a student of the Bishops’ High School, earned seven grade ones and four grade twos.

Army Chief-of Staff Commodore Gary Best congratulated Hartley on behalf of the officers, ranks and civilian employees. He wished her continued success as she pursues studies at Queen’s College. She is preparing for CAPE in six subject areas. Hartley is also acquiring a Mexican scholarship, the army said.

After receiving the award, Hartley said she was grateful to all the persons who supported her during her studies. She also encouraged the children of other officers to do their best and reap good rewards.