See below full statement issued by the Guyana Manufacturing & Services Association (GMSA):
With profound sorrow and heavy hearts, we were utterly devastated this morning upon receiving the heart-wrenching news of the horrific fire that mercilessly consumed the Mahdia Secondary School’s Female Dormitory.
The flames, fueled by unfathomable tragedy, ruthlessly snuffed out the lives of 20 vibrant and promising young Guyanese students, leaving an indelible void in our hearts.
The weight of this unimaginable calamity bears down upon us with a profound sense of loss and despair. Each soul lost in this inferno represents a world of dreams, aspirations, and potential abruptly cut short.
The magnitude of this tragedy is truly overwhelming, as the flickering flames devoured not only their innocent lives but also shattered the hopes and futures that were intertwined with them.
In this time of immeasurable sorrow and shattered dreams, we come together as a community to offer solace, compassion, and unwavering support to the families and friends who are left to grapple with the unbearable pain of losing their beloved children.
We extend our deepest condolences, as mere words can hardly express the depths of our empathy and grief. To the grieving families, we hold you close in our thoughts and prayers, fervently hoping that you find strength in the embrace of your loved ones and in the outpouring of love and support from the entire Guyanese community.
May the memories of these cherished young lives be a source of comfort and inspiration, reminding us all of their indomitable spirit and the joy they brought to the world.
In the face of such profound tragedy, we stand united, offering our unwavering support and collective determination to work tirelessly to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.
We will honor the memories of the fallen students by advocating for improved safety measures, ensuring that no other child has to endure such a tragic fate.
In the midst of darkness, we find solace in the power of unity and compassion. Let us join hands, shoulder to shoulder, as we navigate the turbulent waters of grief and mourning.
Together, we will navigate this harrowing journey, providing comfort and strength to one another, for no burden is too heavy when shared by a compassionate community.
May the hearts of the bereaved find solace in knowing that their pain is not borne alone. In our collective embrace, may they find a flicker of light amidst the darkness, a gentle reminder that they are surrounded by unwavering support and love.
