The New Amsterdam Special Needs School is breaking barriers and setting new standards for inclusive education, with two of its students recently achieving outstanding results at the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA).
Lakram Khemraj on the left and Afraz Hoosein on the right.
Lakram Khemraj secured an impressive 422 marks and earned a place at the Berbice Educational Institute (BEI), while Afraz Hoosain was awarded a spot at the Vryman’s Erven Secondary School in New Amsterdam with 385 marks. These accomplishments mark a significant milestone, as it is the first time the school has presented students for the NGSA.
Head Teacher Zoya Crandon expressed immense pride in her students’ achievements, noting the dedication of the staff and the support received from the Ministry of Education. “This is a proud moment for our school. These successes were made possible through the ongoing investments and efforts to uplift the New Amsterdam Special Needs School,” she said.
Crandon added, “Opportunities are now being put in place for our learners to sit national exams and they are rising to the occasion. We are proud of every step forward.”
The school’s journey is also one of empowerment and inspiration. Crandon applauded the bold and progressive leadership of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government for supporting inclusive education through the success story of Tineisha Issacs, a former student of the New Amsterdam Special Needs School.
Teacher at the New Amsterdam Special Needs School, Tineisha Issacs
Deaf since birth, Issacs was provided with the opportunity to pursue her studies at the Cyril Potter College of Education, where she graduated with a certificate in Special Education. Today, she is back at her alma mater, now as a teacher, and is preparing to further her studies at the University of Guyana.
Alongside her is fellow deaf educator Satesh Rajkumar, who is currently working with four more students set to write the NGSA next year which is a testament to what can be achieved when determination meets opportunity.
Teacher at the New Amsterdam Special Needs School, Satesh Rajkumar
