Latest update June 15th, 2026 1:01 AM
GDF impacts Cashew Island through education
Continuing its mission of service to the nation, the Guyana Defence Force, has over the years, been impacting the lives of members of a small Amerindian Community in Region Six, in a way that will have lasting benefits.
Cashew Island, located in New River, approximately two and a half miles from Base Camp Jaguar, is a community with a population of 80 persons, including children. Prior to 2011, there was no school in the community and the persons there spoke their traditional language; Wai-Wai. Toshao of the community, Kenke Yiamo, who has functioned as a guide for GDF personnel during patrols, requested the Force’s assistance in teaching his people.
Major Ivan McNaughton, Teacher, with some of the students of the Cashew Island Primary School.
Major (ret’d) Ivan McNaughton and his wife, Yvette McNaughton, a trained teacher, were employed by the Force to teach the children reading, basic mathematical and composition skills.
“When we first started, it was very difficult for us to communicate with them. Language was the major barrier. Today, even the little five year olds understand English. Those who have absorbed the language faster others during test time with translations. The parents are also very eager to have their children learn,” Maj (ret’d) Mc Naughton stated. He added that even though the school population is small, the work is substantial.
Four of the older children have since been brought to Georgetown to pursue vocational training.
The teachers have since implemented evening classes at the school for several parents in Reading and Basic Mathematics. “Our biggest wish is for the children in particular, to learn to read and write properly so that they can come out to further their studies. It is my hope that they will return to their communities to help out as skilled people are really needed there,” he added.
The Guyana Defence Force has been one of the driving forces contributing to the welfare of this community, from the provision of employment and infrastructure to medical care.
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