Honouring Excellence – STEMGuyana celebrates Teacher-of-the-Year Winners and Nominees

Dec 21, 2025 Features / Columnists, News

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By Karen Abrams, MBA, AA, Doctoral Candidate

(Kaieteur News) – The STEMGuyana Teacher of the Year Awards were created to shine a light on educators who are making a real difference in classrooms and communities, often quietly, consistently, and without fanfare. This year, 3,979 people voted, and the $100,000 in prize money was sponsored by Ima, Asha, and Caleb Christian, the co-founders of the organization, who wanted to remind us why teachers remain one of the most powerful forces shaping Guyana’s future.

With 1,428 votes, first place was awarded to Dwayne Daniels, who teaches at Friendship Secondary School in Region Four. Mr. Daniels is a teacher whose work reflects both deep dedication to students and a clear understanding of the demands of a changing world. For him, teaching is not simply a job; it is an identity. “Teaching is central to who I am,” he shared, explaining that what drives him each day is “seeing students grow academically and personally.” His commitment to integrating technology into learning is intentional. He views ICT as a tool to strengthen literacy, deepen critical thinking, and better prepare students for the realities of the 21st century. His guiding principle, “Securing our nation’s future by delivering innovative and effective education to today’s generation,” captures the sense of national responsibility that defines his work. Mr. Daniels will celebrate with a prize of $50,000.

Second place, with 1,143 votes, went to Rayann Halley, an ICT teacher in the primary department at the School of Nations. Ms. Halley’s classroom practice reflects innovation, inclusion, and creativity. Teaching in a diverse, multilingual environment, she believes technology education must be accessible to all students, regardless of background. She describes teaching as “more than a profession,” calling it “a journey of continuous learning, growth, and self-discovery.” Her enthusiasm for emerging tools, including artificial intelligence, has helped transform her classroom into a space where curiosity is encouraged and students are empowered to build, problem-solve, and imagine new possibilities. Ms. Halley will receive a prize of $30,000.

Third place was awarded to Sharmala Singh from Lake Mainstay Primary School, who earned 410 votes. Ms. Singh is a teacher, STEM coach, and mentor whose work is deeply rooted in community and care for children. Her philosophy is anchored in the belief that “every child deserves to feel capable, valued, and supported in the classroom.” Her motivation comes from knowing she can make a positive difference in a child’s life, a commitment she lives out daily through her work in Region Two. Her journey is a reminder that educational excellence is not confined to urban centers but flourishes wherever dedication, service, and belief in children are present. Ms. Singh will celebrate with a prize of $20,000.

These awards are particularly meaningful because the nominations came directly from students. Students identified the teachers who inspired them, challenged them, and believed in them. In doing so, they affirmed a powerful truth: students recognize excellence when they experience it.

STEMGuyana also recognizes the broader ecosystem that nurtures great teaching. It was encouraging to note the strong representation of nominees from outside of Georgetown, reflecting the Government of Guyana’s commitment to expanding teacher training nationwide. As more educators are trained across regions, opportunities for quality education are becoming more evenly distributed, strengthening communities far beyond the capital.

A special acknowledgment is due to St. Stanislaus College, which fielded the highest number of nominees for the Teacher of the Year Award. Four teachers from the institution were selected as nominees: Rashanna Murray, Melanie Christina Alphonso, Chris Kirshnaram, and Grace Brummell, alongside Shevvon Williams. This level of representation speaks to a positive and supportive school environment where students feel empowered to recognize and celebrate the educators who shape their growth. It reflects a school culture that values excellence, mentorship, and student voice.

STEMGuyana honors teachers because teachers do far more than deliver lessons. They motivate, guide, and intervene when students are struggling academically or personally. In a country where too many children continue to face challenges with literacy, numeracy, and school completion, teachers who go beyond the syllabus are essential to national development.

The 2025 Teacher of the Year Awards offer more than celebration. They offer hope. They remind us that across Guyana, in classrooms large and small, dedicated educators are building the foundation for a stronger, more resilient future.

Congratulations to Dwayne Daniels, Rayann Halley, Sharmala Singh, and to all nominees. Your work matters. Your impact is visible. And Guyana’s children are better because of you.

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• Karen Abrams, nominees, STEMGuyana, Winners

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