For many Guyanese students studying at the University of the West Indies (UWI) in Trinidad and Tobago, the experience of living in a foreign country can be both exciting and challenging. To help ease the transition and foster a sense of belonging, a group of them came together several years ago to create the Guyana Student Association in Trinidad and Tobago (GUYSATT).
GUYSATT’s Vice President, Naresh Jagnanan, a UWI student, explained that the association was founded to provide a “home away from home” for Guyanese students. GUYSATT’s mission is to create a supportive environment where students can thrive both academically and socially. According to Jagnanan, the group organizes study sessions, mentorship programmes, and workshops aimed at helping members succeed in their studies. Additionally, social events provide opportunities for students to build friendships, share experiences, and maintain connections to their Guyanese culture. The association also regularly hosts cultural events, showcasing Guyanese traditions, festivals, and heritage.