Participants of the Microbiology Workshop pose with Professor Gomathinayagam Subramanian, Director of UGBC, Mr. Mohindra Persaud, the CEO of Nand Persaud Group of Companies, and other officials at the closing ceremony.

The University of Guyana Berbice Campus (UGBC) recently hosted a three-day microbiology workshop under the theme  “The Isolation, Characterization, and Control Measures of Microorganisms (Bacteria and Fungi) from Soil, Water and Air).” The event, held from August 11–13, 2025, at John’s Science Centre, attracted wide participation and was hailed as a success.

Held at the John’s Science Centre, the workshop drew 66 participants from across the country, including secondary school teachers from Regions Five and Six, UG students and lecturers, and representatives from organisations such as the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA), the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), NAREI, and the Kuru Kuru Cooperative College. Some even travelled from Georgetown to be part of the experience, showing just how much interest there is in building skills in this field.

The sessions, led by Professor Gomathinayagam Subramanian, Director of UGBC, with the support of laboratory technicians Mr. Darius Ramotar and Mr. Davindranauth Goberdhan, blended lectures with hands-on practice. Participants explored micrometry, microscopic examinations of microorganisms, serial dilution and agar plating, and bacterial population counts using spectrophotometers. From 8:30 in the morning until 4:00 in the afternoon, the laboratories were buzzing with activity and discussion.

For many, the experience was eye-opening. One participant shared that techniques such as enumeration and dilution, which once seemed complicated, were now much clearer and easier to apply. Others praised the clarity of the presentations and said they hoped to see more workshops like this in the future.

The closing ceremony reflected the enthusiasm of the three days. Speakers such as Mr. Jerome Matthews from the Kuru Kuru Cooperative College described the event as “well-structured and informative,” while Mr. Gavindra Ramnarine, CEO of the Guyana School of Agriculture, pointed out its value in strengthening classroom teaching. Mr. Mohindra Persaud, CEO of the Nand Persaud Group of Companies Inc., commended participants for their dedication to learning.

Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin, highlighted the workshop’s importance for advancing science in Guyana and encouraged participants to continue on their research journeys. Regional Education Officer, Mr. Satesh Udit, also praised the strong turnout and urged attendees to pass on the knowledge to their colleagues and students.

The event ended with heartfelt thanks from Dr. Sushmita Kalika-Singh, UG Lecturer, who applauded both participants and organisers for their commitment.