ERC launches Harmony Clubs at Stella Maris Primary to promote respect, tolerance and national unity

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) has officially launched its Harmony Clubs Pilot Programme at the Stella Maris Primary School, located at 120 Woolford Avenue, following approval and support from the Ministry of Education.

The launch took place today at 12:30 p.m. in the school’s Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND) room and marks the first phase of a national initiative designed to promote respect, tolerance, cooperation and an appreciation for Guyana’s ethnic diversity among the nation’s youth.

Providing remarks at the launch was Chairman of the ERC, Shaikh Moeenul Hack, who emphasized the importance of fostering unity and understanding from an early age.

According to the Chairman “harmony begins with how we treat each other. When we learn about one another’s backgrounds, cultures and beliefs, we build respect and break down the barriers that divide us. The Harmony Club gives our children a space to do exactly that, to listen, to understand, and to show kindness. If we plant these values early, they will grow into a more peaceful and united Guyana.”

Representing the Ministry of Education at the launch, Deputy Chief Education Officer (Development), Ms. Volika Jaikishun, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to fostering environments that encourage inclusion and respect.

She posited that “this Harmony Club represents what we want for every child in Guyana, a safe space to learn not only academic lessons, but lessons of heart. When children learn to respect one another’s cultures, beliefs, and experiences, they become more compassionate, confident and caring individuals. The Ministry of Education is proud to partner with the Ethnic Relations Commission in nurturing these values. Together, we are helping our children build friendships that are rooted in understanding, respect, and unity in the classroom, at home, and throughout our beautiful country.”

Speaking on behalf of the school, Headmistress of Stella Maris Primary, Ms. Dayvika Ghansiam, expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort while noting that “we at Stella Maris Primary School are proud to work in collaboration with the ERC and the Ministry of Education in launching this Harmony Club. The Harmony Club is being established to promote a simple but powerful idea, that even though we come from different backgrounds, we can live, learn, and grow together as one. Harmony doesn’t mean we all have to be the same. It means respecting each other’s differences and finding strength in our diversity. Together, we can create a melody of unity that will echo far beyond these walls.”

The Harmony Clubs are envisioned as safe and inclusive spaces where students can learn and openly discuss topics related to ethnic diversity, national identity, mutual respect, and peaceful co-existence. Through guided activities, games, cultural exchanges and interactive sessions, students will be encouraged to appreciate similarities, celebrate differences, and work collaboratively.

The Pilot Programme is slated to be rolled out next at the following schools:

• North Georgetown Secondary
• Comenius Primary
• St. Gabriel’s Primary
• St. Ambrose Primary

These schools will serve as the initial testing ground for the club structure, engagement activities, and student-driven initiatives. Feedback and outcomes from the pilot phase will inform how the programme will be expanded to schools across all regions in Guyana.

The ERC expresses gratitude to the Ministry of Education, school administrators, teachers, Parent Teacher Associations and students for their support and enthusiasm towards this initiative. As a constitutional body mandated to promote national harmony and good relations among all ethnic groups, the Commission remains committed to ensuring that every Guyanese child grows in an environment of mutual respect and shared national pride. [ERC Press Release]