Guyanese pay tribute broadcasting giant, Dr. Rovin Deodat

Sep 13, 2026 News

(Kaieteur News) – Guyana’s broadcasting fraternity is mourning the death of communications specialist and veteran broadcaster Dr. Rovin Deodat, AA, whose decades-long career helped shape the country’s broadcasting, communications and media-training landscape.

Deodat, who held a PhD in Communications, a Master’s degree in English from Simon Fraser University and a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Guyana passed away on Friday.

He was remembered as a towering professional, educator and mentor who left an indelible mark on generations of broadcasters.

Leading the tributes was Former Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo who described Dr. Deodat as a giant in the field of broadcasting and education. “I send condolences to his family, friends and the broadcasting fraternity.

Dr. Rovin Deodat

I have known “Doc” for almost 50 years both as a media colleague and then as a communications specialist and consultant when I became Information minister.

Later, he was Special Communications Advisor to the Prime Minister, and a friend.”

Nagamootoo said Deodat’s achievements are many in areas such as crafting broadcasting legislation, training new broadcasters, including the first batch from our indigenous communities, and opening eight regional/community radio stations. “He worked with me to introduce Internet in Guyana.

Dr. Deodat has participated in government communication activities without becoming political or partisan. He was a professional, a teacher – from “word to word”.

We will miss you, Doc.”

Veteran journalist Enrico Woolford said it has not been a good 48 hours he had to deal with the deaths of four persons he knew, worked with, and admired for their commitment to service to the country and community. Dr. Rovin Deodat A A was one of those persons.

“Dr. Rovin Deodat A A. was committed to standards in Broadcasting in Guyana. He worked indefatigably in his quest for nationwide coverage of Guyana’s Broadcasting sector. Almost everyone remembers his distinctive programme “From Word to Word.” I remember Rovin for his assistance in the development of State Television news, then called GTV news. We called on him to present the news, and he did so effortlessly with his impeccable diction.

Later on, Rovin ensured that Guyana’s Community Radio and Television stations were rolled out with the greatest effort.”

Woolford said Dr. Deodat crisscrossed Guyana with colleagues from NCN, making it happen. “Whenever we moved into those areas from Orealla to Matthew’s Ridge, Anna Regina to Aishalton, Rovin and I would share sustainable development ideas. He would say with a chuckle, “Here we go again, Development Dreaming.” Broadcasting in Guyana benefitted immensely from Rovin’s input. Sincere condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.”

Minister of Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy said he is deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Deodat, whose leadership and mentorship helped to set the standard for broadcasting in Guyana during its formative years.

“As a young person starting out at the then Guyana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), it was always a joy to share the company of Dr. Deodat and experience his remarkable linguistic skills,” McCoy said. He said for many years, Deodat brought knowledge, clarity and an unmistakable command of language to the airwaves through his popular programme, From Word to Word.

“His contribution extended well beyond the microphone. As a communications specialist, trainer and member of the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority, Dr. Deodat continued to share his knowledge with younger media practitioners and to advance professional standards across the sector.

Guyana has lost a distinguished voice, a master of the English language and a treasured mentor whose influence helped shape generations of broadcasters.

I extend heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, former colleagues and the wider media fraternity. May his soul rest in peace.”

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