AFC raises concerns over frequent fires at schools

Mar 10, 2025 News

…calls for improved fire safety training

Kaieteur News- In light of the death of Fireman Voshaun Manbodh who was injured during the recent fire at Mae’s School in Subryanville, Georgetown, the Alliance For Change (AFC) is calling on the government to conduct immediate audits to ensure institutions are in compliance with existing fire safety regulations and also for improve fire safety training in schools.

AFC raises concerns over frequent fires at schools

AFC leader Nigel Hughes

The political party issued a statement on Sunday, highlighting what they described as a “troubling increase in school fires.” The AFC pointed out that between January 1 and September 18, 2024, 14 fire-related incidents occurred at schools across the country, with 13 of those incidents taking place at public schools. “This alarming trend includes the catastrophic Mahdia Secondary School dormitory fire on May 21, 2023, which claimed the lives of 20 children and stands as one of the deadliest school dormitory fires in recent history,” AFC explained.

The AFC also referenced previous recommendations from the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), which suggested the installation of smoke detectors and sprinkler systems in schools to reduce fire risks. Furthermore, the Ministry of Education mandates monthly emergency drills to ensure preparedness. However, despite these guidelines, the AFC described such reoccurring incidents, “a gap between policy and implementation.”

In response to these concerns, the AFC has called for immediate audits to ensure adherence to fire safety regulations, the implementation of mandatory insurance policies for all educational institutions, and regular fire safety training for both school staff and students. They also advocated for the allocation of resources to implement modern fire prevention and suppression systems in schools nationwide. The AFC assures that these measures can safeguard the well-being of students, educators, and first responders, ensuring that tragedies like this are prevented in the future.

Meanwhile, the party also extended its condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Fireman Manbodh. The AFC also wishes a swift recovery to the other firefighters injured in the line of duty.

Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham and other GFS members at Manbodh’s residence

The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) also expressed their condolences. Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham issued a statement, describing Manbodh’s death as the “ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.” Wickham stated, “His passing is not only a tremendous loss to his loved ones but also a tragic day for the Guyana Fire Service and our nation as a whole. Fireman Manbodh served with honor, bravery, and commitment, embodying the true spirit of a firefighter one who risks everything to protect the lives and safety of others. His courage and selflessness will forever be etched in the history of the Guyana Fire Service, as he was another great firefighter who laid down his life on the call of duty.”

Wickham further assured that the GFS would stand in solidarity with Manbodh’s family, offering their support, prayers, and deepest sympathies. “We also recognize the grief that this tragedy brings to his fellow firefighters, who have lost not just a colleague but a brother in service,” the statement continued. In tribute to Fireman Manbodh, all service flags will be flown at half-mast as a mark of respect and mourning. “His sacrifice will never be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who serve,” the GFS statement concluded.

The Guyana Prison Service (GPS), through Director of Prisons Nicklon Elliot, also expressed their condolences to Manbodh’s family. Elliot stated, “As we mourn this heartbreaking loss, the GPS stands in solidarity with Manbodh’s family, offering our support, prayers, and deepest sympathies.” On Sunday, Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn, Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham, and other members of the GFS visited Manbodh’s family in Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara, to further express their condolences and provide emotional support.

(AFC raises concerns over frequent fires at schools)

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Alliance For Change, Fireman, Guyana Fire Service, Mahdia Secondary School Dormitory, Voshaun Manbodh

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