News &
Community Service
2009
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GBTI
HOSTS LUNCHEON FOR MEDIA
The Guyana Bank for Trade & Industry on Thursday, December 10, 2009
hosted a luncheon for members of the media at the GBTI Recreational
Centre.
Mr Sean Noel, Assistant Manager, Research and Planning, in his brief
remarks to the attendees, thanked them for their support through the
past year.
The invitees were treated to a sumptuous lunch and gifts.
GBTI
VREED-EN-HOOP HOSTS ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CULTURAL EVENING
The Vreed-en-Hoop community was treated to a spectacular evening of
carols, dances, poems and drama when the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry
Limited Vreed-en-Hoop Branch held its Annual Christmas Cultural Evening
on Sunday, December 6, 2009.
The programme included performances from schools and churches within
the West Coast and West Bank area. Invitees were also treated to a medley
of carols by GBTI staff.
Mrs Rambha Persaud-Chandebal – Manager of the Branch, in welcoming
the invitees noted that the event is meant to strengthen ties between
the Branch and the community and reiterated the Branch’s commitment
to serving the residents of the area in an efficient and friendly manner.
Mr Terry Gopaul – Manager, Advances, conveyed a message on behalf
of Management of the Bank.
The programme lasted for over two hours and was well received by the
audience.
GBTI PARIKA BRANCH HOSTS 5TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS
LUNCHEON
On December 5, 2009 the Guyana Bank for Trade & Industry Limited
(GBTI) Parika Branch hosted its 5th Annual Children’s Christmas
Luncheon for under privileged children within the community.
The luncheon was attended by fifty children from the Parika Salem Primary,
Uitvlugt Primary, Philadelphia Primary, Zeelugt Primary and Parika Full
Gospel Church.

The activities included songs and poems by the children, a speech on
Christmas by Pastor Ram Singh.
.
The clown visited after lunch, and the children were taken through games,
dances and face painting. Gifts were given to all the children by Santa
Clause who arrived shortly after.
The teachers of the various schools expressed their thanks towards
the Bank for the gesture and stated that the children thoroughly enjoyed
the treats.
HOPE
CHILDREN’S HOME RECEIVES CHRISTMAS TREAT FROM REGENT STREET BRANCH
On December 5, 2009 our Regent Street Branch provided a Christmas treat
for children residing at the Hope Children’s Home, Enmore, along
with their caregivers. The Home caters for abandoned or abused children
and currently has forty three (43) children in the residence.
Staff members visited the home and assisted in sharing of the goodies
to the children, along with a gift for each child.

Ms Bebi Wharton, Manager of the Branch presented a quantity of bath
towels to Mr Kenneth Finlayson, Director of the Home. He expressed his
gratitude for the items provided and the joy brought to the children,
He also advised that this activity was the only treat for the children
for the season so far.
GBTI
PRESENTS ANNUAL DONATIONS TO CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS
In support, of the dedicated work of charitable organisations, the Guyana
Bank for Trade & Industry Limited (GBTI) held its Annual Donations
Presentation on Thursday December 3, 2009, where seven organisations
received donations to assist with their efforts.
In his address to the recipients, Mr Sean Noel, Assistant
Manager, Research and Planning, who chaired the programme, commended
the organizations for their commitment towards helping those in need
and restated the Bank’s commitment to continued support.

The recipients of donations were: Uncle Eddie’s
Home, David Rose School for the Handicapped, Dharm Shala - Benevolent
Home for the Poor of All Races, Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana,
Guyana Red Cross Society, Guyana Society for the Blind and the Periwinkle
Club.
Ms Denise Boodie of the Uncle Eddie’s Home spoke on behalf of
the recipients and in acknowledging the donation observed that the charitable
organisations represented are greatly motivated by the generosity of
the Bank.
GBTI
PRIMELIFE CLUB ACCOUNT HOLDERS REWARDED
On Thursday, December 3, 2009 the Guyana Bank for Trade & Industry
Limited presented prizes to the winners of the Annual Primelife Club
Prize Giveaway. The Annual Prize Giveaway allows two lucky account holders
to win a trip for two to Baganara Resort and a Dinner Gift Certificate
for two.
This year’s winners were: Mr & Mrs Mohamed & Bibi Kassim
and Mrs Joan Alleyne, account holders of our Water Street Branch. The
prizes to the winners were presented by Mrs Vidya L Singh, Senior Manager
– Operations.
GBTI Primelife Club Account holders benefit from higher rates of interest
on their savings, free ATM and Telephone Banking services, higher rates
of exchange on foreign currency transactions, concessionary rates on
loans, no ledger fees, discounts at participating stores, and annual
prize giveaways.
GBTI
VREED-EN-HOOP BRANCH PRESENTS TOP PRIZES AT WEST DEMERARA SECONDARY
Prizes were presented to the Best Graduating Student and Best Graduating
Business Students at the 2009 CSEC Examinations, of the West Demerara
Secondary School by the Vreed-en-Hoop Branch of the Guyana Bank for
Trade & Industry Limited.
The presentation was done at the school’s Annual Graduation Ceremony
held on November 26, 2009. The prizes were presented to the students
by Mrs Rambha Persaud – Chandebal, Manager of the Branch.
The recipients of this year’s prizes are:
Best Graduating Student – Mr Jaikishun Takchandra
Best Graduating Business Student – Mr Rohan Sewnarine
The Branch presents these prizes annually and also conducts Career Guidance
Sessions at Secondary Schools in the region.
LETHEM
BRANCH HOSTS BOOTH AT RUPUNUNI EXPO
Our Lethem Branch hosted a booth at the Rupununi Expo which was held
on November 28th and 29th, 2009 at the Rodeo Ground. The event is held
annually to showcase local produce and services offered in the community.
The activities were attended by the Honourable Mr Manniram Prashad,
Minister of Tourism and Honourable Ms Pauline Sukhai, Minister of Amerindian
Affairs.
Our booth was visited by approximately 400 persons who received information
on the various services offered by GBTI, by the staff of the Branch.
Tokens were distributed.
REGENT
STREET PRESENTS BEST GRADUATING STUDENT AWARD
On November 19, 2009, our Regent Street Branch presented
a trophy to the Best CSEC Student of the St. Rose’s High School
at its Annual Prize-Giving and Graduation Ceremony.
The trophy was presented to Miss Jasodra Boodhoo by
Ms Bebi Wharton, Manager of the Branch. Mrs Erceleen Cummings-Archibald,
Principal of the School thanked the Branch for the presentation and
acknowledged the Bank’s dedication towards education which is
displayed annually with the GBTI Impromptu Speech Competition.
REGENT
STREET BRANCH CELEBRATES ANNIVERSARY
Our Regent Street Branch on October 29, 2009 held activities to observe
its Anniversary in recognition of the invaluable support of its customers
to its success.
Each customer conducting business with the Branch on that day was treated
to cake and tokens and a cocktail reception was held in the afternoon
for selected customers and staff.
The Branch was beautifully decorated with balloons, flowers and an anniversary
banner.
PARIKA
BRANCH HOSTS CAREER GUIDANCE SESSION AT STEWARTVILLE SECONDARY SCHOOL
Our Parika Branch conducted a Career Guidance Session at the Stewartville
Secondary School, on September 30, 2009. The session was attended by
eighty 5th Form students of the school.
The session covered a range of topics relevant to their entry into the
job market, including:
• Careers in Banking
• How to complete a Job Application
• Preparing for the Interview
• Conduct in the Office
The session lasted over two (2) hours and the students were very attentive
and interactive. The facilitators of the session were Mrs Nandanee Persaud,
Branch Manager, Ms Marilyn Li - Senior Supervisor and Mr Safwaaz Hanif
– Junior Supervisor.

The students and teachers expressed their thanks to the Bank for conducting
the session and noted the relevance of the material presented in preparing
the students for their entrance into the work environment.
Tokens and relevant brochures were distributed by the Branch to all
in attendance.
REGENT
STREET BRANCH CONDUCTS CAREER GUIDANCE SESSION AT BLADEN HALL MULTILATERAL
SECONDARY
Our Regent Street Branch conducted a Career Guidance Session at the
Bladen Hall Secondary School, on September 24, 2009. The session was
attended by 5th Form students of the school.
The session covered a range of topics relevant to their entry into the
job market, including:
• Careers in Banking
• How to complete a Job Application
• Preparing for the Interview
• Conduct in the Office
The session lasted over two (2) hours and the students were very attentive
and interactive. The facilitators of the session were Ms Bebi Wharton,
Branch Manager, Mr Deodat Narine, Junior Supervisor and Mr Kevin Foo,
Supervisor’s Assistant.
Headmistress of the school, Mrs. Olive Daw expressed their thanks to
the Bank for conducting the session and noted the relevance of the material
presented in preparing the students for their entrance into the work
environment.
Tokens and relevant brochures were distributed by the Branch to all
in attendance.
LETHEM
BRANCH SUPPORTS AMERINDIAN HERITAGE MONTH ACTIVITIES
The Lethem Branch of Guyana Bank for
Trade and Industry continued its support of activities to observe Amerindian
Heritage Month, held during the period of September 23 to 26, 2009.
The Branch made a donation towards prizes for the activities held during
the weekend. The presentation was done by Mr. Mohan Tularam, Manager
of the Branch, to Ms Esmee Rockliffe, Deputy Regional Executive Officer.

The community of Lethem is home to approximately 6,000 Amerindians and
GBTI opened its seventh branch in the area in August 2006.
VREED-EN-HOOP
BRANCH SUPPORTS GRADUATION CEREMONY AT VREED-EN-HOOP PRIMARY SCHOOL
The Vreed-en-Hoop Branch of the Guyana Bank for Trade
and Industry Limited (GBTI) continues its commitment to the development
of education in the community where it operates.
On September 23, 2009, the Branch made a donation to the Vreed-en-Hoop
Primary School towards their Annual Graduation Ceremony held on September
25, 2009.

The presentation was done by Mrs Rambha Persaud - Chandebal, Manager
of the Branch to Mr Alvin Johnson, Headmaster of the school. Mrs. Chandebal
in her brief remarks stated that the Branch is pleased to contribute
to the school’s Annual Graduation Ceremony. Mr Johnson thanked
the Branch for its support throughout the years.
LETHEM
BRANCH CELEBRATES 3RD ANNIVERSARY
Our Lethem Branch held activities in observance of
its 3rd Anniversary to recognise the invaluable support of its customers
and the community to its success.
Each customer conducting business during the day was
treated to cake and tokens.
An interactive cocktail was held in the afternoon for
selected customers and staff. In attendance were customers, Regional
Chairman Region # 9 and other invitees.
The Branch was beautifully decorated with balloons,
flowers and an anniversary banner. A collage of community activities
done by the Branch was also displayed in the Banking Hall.
GBTI
HOSTS EDUCATIONAL TOUR FOR AMERINDIAN HERITAGE MONTH
On September 8, 2009 our Water Street Branch hosted an educational tour
for fifteen students of the Aishalton Primary & Secondary Schools
and Karasabai Primary of Region # 9. The tour was held as part of the
activities planned for Amerindian Heritage month by the Ministry of
Amerindian Affairs. This year Amerindian Heritage celebrations are observed
under the theme, “Securing our livelihood while sustaining our
cultural diversity.”

The students who were accompanied by a teacher and a representative
of the Ministry were given a brief talk on the establishment of banking
along with a brief history of GBTI by Ms Nadia Doodnaught, Salaries
Clerk within the Human Resources Department. Mrs Dahana Ramjist, Marketing
and Public Relations Officer described the various products and services
offered by GBTI and explained the benefits of having an account. They
were also given a tour of the bank and shown the operations of the ATM
machine.
GBTI
PRESENTS BURSARY AWARDS TO EARLY SAVERS ACCOUNT HOLDERS
Members of the GBTI Early Savers Club who were successful
at the recent National Grade Six Assessment received bursary awards
from the Bank on Thursday, September 3, 2009, in recognition of their
excellent achievement at the Examinations.
This annual activity of the Bank is part of the range
of benefits available to members of the Early Savers Club, which is
open to children from birth to 17 years. This year, awards were presented
to eleven (11) students who obtained scores ranging from 550 to 562
marks and gained places at Queens College.
The awardees, who obtained the highest marks and were
selected out of 49 entries submitted, are:
Mas Abhimanyu Dev
Mas Somant Heeralall
Miss Khajal Parasnath
Miss Jenelle Geness
Miss Amrita Ramnauth
Miss Maheshwerie Samaroo
Mas Bayeeshmaal Ramsundar
Miss Leonie Ramkaran
Mas Chaavi Deodat
Mas Cuddy Holder
Miss Ophera Razack
Mr Sean Noel, Assistant Manager, GBTI, congratulated
the students who he noted would have made a lot of sacrifices –
attending their extra classes and revising their homework – to
achieve their excellent scores.
In her remarks at the Presentation Ceremony, Ms Melcita
Bovell, Assistant Chief Education Officer- Secondary, Ministry of Education,
commended the Bank on the Annual Presentation and its ongoing support
to the Ministry and students’ development.
The awards to the students in attendance were presented
by Mrs. Vidya L. Singh, Senior Manager, Operations and Mrs Patricia
Clarke, Training Officer, while the closing remarks were presented by
Mrs. Dahana Ramjist, Marketing & Public Relations Officer.
ANNA REGINA BRANCH REPAINTS PEDESTRIAN
CROSSINGS
Our Anna Regina Branch undertook its annual contribution
to road safety on the Essequibo Coast when staff repainted four (4)
pedestrian crossings on August 30, 2009 at the following schools:
•CV Nunes Primary
• Danielstown Nursery
• Sparta Primary
• Near the Anna Regina and Cotton Field Secondary Schools
They were accompanied by a member of the Guyana Police
Force who lauded the Branch’s continued commitment to road safety
in the region.
CORRIVERTON
BRANCH REPAINTS PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS
Staff of our Corriverton Branch were involved in repainting pedestrian
crossings on August 30, 2009 in the Upper Corentyne area. The crossings
repainted are at the following locations:
» Crabwood Creek Primary / Nursery
» Skeldon Line Path Secondary
» Skeldon High
» Skeldon Primary
» #79 Market
» Massiah Primary
» # 68 Primary
The Traffic Department of the Springlands
Police Station, expressed the department’s gratitude to the Branch
for its annual contribution to road safety in the community.
GBTI PROVIDENCE
BRANCH REPAINTS PEDESTRIAN CROSSING
Staff of the Providence Branch of the Guyana Bank for
Trade and Industry Limited (GBTI) repainted a pedestrian crossing on
Sunday, August 23, 2009.

The crossing located in front of the Peter’s
Hall Primary School was repainted by the Branch in preparation for the
commencement of the new school term.
The Branch was lauded by the Traffic Department for
their contribution to Road Safety in the community.
GBTI CONTRIBUTES TO
FIRE PREVENTION WEEK
The Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry
Limited presented a cheque to the Guyana Fire Service for Fire Prevention
Week which will be held during the period October 4th to 10th, 2009.
The cheque was presented to Mr Gregory Wickham, Fire
Prevention Officer, by Mrs Vidya L Singh, Senior Manager-Operations.
In his remarks, Mr Wickham, thanked the Bank for its continued support
to the Fire Service, and stated that the donation will greatly assist
in the activities planned for Fire Prevention Week.
This year, the Fire Service has planned activities
designed to sensitise the nation on Fire Safety, including seminars
and fire safety exhibitions in every division, with the focus on the
use of fire fighting equipment.
REGENT STREET BRANCH
REPAINTS PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS
As part of their Community Outreach programme, staff
of our Regent Street Branch repainted pedestrian crossings in the vicinity
of the following schools, on Woolford Avenue, on August 23, 2009:
St Joseph’s High / North Georgetown Secondary
North Georgetown Primary
Richard Ishmael Secondary
Tutorial High
Stella Maris Primary
Government Technical Institute
Precious Jewel Nursery

The Police Traffic Department has commended the Branch
for its continued support of the Department’s Road Safety Programme,
noting that the presence of these road markings at schools helps build
stronger awareness of road safety rules among young people.
GBTI WATER STREET HOSTS
TOUR FOR HEARING IMPAIRED PERSONS
On July 31, 2009 GBTI’s Water
Street Branch hosted an educational tour for ten persons who are hearing
impaired, through the Guyana Deaf Mission.
The children and adults, who were accompanied by Rev Lawrence and Mrs
Mary Hallahan of the Mission, were advised on Banking and the services
offered by GBTI by Ms Nadia Doodnaught, Salaries Clerk within the Human
Resources and Administration Department, and Mrs Dahana Ramjist, Marketing
and Public Relations Officer.

They were very interactive during the presentations and information
was conveyed with the support of sign language interpreter Rev Hallahan.
Refreshments and tokens were given at the end of the tour.
GBTI CORRIVERTON BRANCH
HOSTS 3rd ANNUAL CYCLING EVENT
GBTI’s Corriverton Branch hosted its 3rd Annual
Cycling Event on Saturday, July 25, 2009.
The cycling event attracted approximately 40 riders,
ages ranging from 12 to 49 years old. The BMX and female events commenced
at the entrance arch to Corriverton and then proceeded to the Branch
at No. 78 Corriverton.
The remaining races started at the Branch, thence to
the No. 52 Bridge and back.

The winners in the various categories were as follows:
OPEN MALE:
1st – Gary Benjamin
2nd – Dwight Holder
3rd – Neil Reece
The winner’s trophy in the Open Race was won
by Gary Benjamin
VETERAN:
1st – Ian Mc Bean
UNDER 18 GIRLS:
1st – Marica Dick
2nd – Christene Matheson
MALE BMX:
1st – Tristan Kamal
2nd –Ravendra Karim
3rd – Horace Ceres
Mr Naresh Balkaran, Manager of the Branch, in his address,
stated that the Bank is pleased to honour its social responsibility
through this venture and expressed his appreciation to the participants
and members of the community.
LETHEM
BRANCH SUPPORTS KARAUDARNAU VILLAGE
During the rainy seasons it is very difficult and sometimes
impossible to reach villages in the South Rupununi. Vehicular access
becomes restricted due to the incidents of flooding and often basic
food and other commodities cannot be delivered to the villages, resulting
in food shortages and high food prices.
Residents of the Deep South sub-district villages have
embarked on a project to construct a road from Katoonarib to Karaidarnau,
to provide an alternative access to the villages to ease the difficulties
experienced during the rainy seasons.

Our Lethem Branch recently donated the sum of thirty
five thousand dollars ($35,000) to the Karaudarnau Village Council towards
the project. The sum was handed over to Mr Ron James, a representative
of the Council, by Mr Mohan Tularam, Manager of the Branch.
Mr James thanked the Bank for its contribution and
stated that the construction of the road will greatly benefit residents
in the areas.
PRIZES PRESENTED TO
WINNERS OF GBTI KAIETEUR CLASSIC ‘WIN A TRIP’ COMPETITION
On Thursday, July 16, 2009 winners of the 2009 GBTI
Kaieteur Classic ‘Win A Trip’ Competition were presented
with their prizes. The Competition was held for ATM and Point-of-Sale
users during the period March to June 2009.
The winners were:
ATM User – Ms Bissoondai Longden – Day
trip for Two to Kaieteur Falls
POS User – Ms Evelyn Wayne – Day trip for
Two to Baganara Island Resort
ANNA REGINA BRANCH CELEBRATES
11TH ANNIVERSARY
On July 10, 2009, our Anna Regina Branch held activities in observance
of its 11th Anniversary to recognise the invaluable support of its customers
and the community to its success.
As a form of customer appreciation each customer conducting business
with the Branch on that day was treated to snacks, drinks and tokens.
An interactive cocktail was held in the afternoon for selected customers
and members of the community. In attendance were businessmen, rice and
cash crop farmers, and representatives of the Regional Democratic Office.
The Branch was beautifully decorated with balloons, flowers and an anniversary
banner. A collage of community activities done by the Branch was also
displayed in the Banking Hall.
Over the years the Branch has shown its appreciation to customers and
the community through such activities as the hosting of an Annual Diwali
Cultural Evening, Career Guidance Sessions, Donations and other works
of charity.
LETHEM
BRANCH SUPPORTS GRADUATION EXERCISE AT ARAPAIMA PRIMARY
Our Lethem Branch presented a trophy
to the Most Outstanding Student in the National Grade Six Assessment
at the Arapaima Primary School, at the school’s Annual Prize Giving
Ceremony held on July 6, 2009.
The trophy was presented by Mr. Mohan Tularam, Manager
of the Branch to Mas Renardo Ramsamooj who attained a total of 471 marks
at the examination.

Also present at the ceremony were the Vice Chairperson
of Region # 9, Deputy Regional Executive Officer and Head teachers from
various schools and parents.
GBTI
PRESENTS COMPUTER TO NORTH GEORGETOWN SECONDARY
Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Limited (GBTI) presented
the North Georgetown Secondary School with a computer system for their
Information Technology Lab on June 25th, 2009 at the Bank’s Water
Street Office.
The system was presented to Mrs Deborah Greenidge –
Hinds, Deputy Headmistress by Mr John Tracey, Director – Credit,
following a request by the school for a donation of the equipment for
use in the Information Technology Department at the school.

Mr Tracey in his remarks stated that the Bank is pleased
to support the school and hoped for continued success in their CSEC
results in the subject area.
Mrs Greenidge – Hinds expressed thanks to the
Bank, on behalf of the school and stated that the presentation by GBTI
will greatly assist the school in execution of the Information Technology
programme.
Also present at the ceremony were Mrs Vidya Lita Singh,
Senior Manager Operations - GBTI and Mrs Dahana Ramjist, Marketing and
Public Relations Officer of the Bank, along with Mr Walter Charles,
President of the PTA of the school.
GBTI
PARIKA BRANCH HOSTS EDUCATIONAL TOUR FOR ESSEQUIBO ISLAND SECONDARY
SCHOOL
On June 22, 2009 GBTI’s Parika Branch hosted
an educational tour for fifteen students of the Fourth Form (Business)
of the Essequibo Island Secondary School located on the island of Wakenaam.

The students who were accompanied by a teacher were
advised on the establishment of banking along with the History of GBTI
by Ms Marilyn Li Senior Supervisor of the Branch, while Mrs Nandanee
Persaud, Branch Manager described the various products and services
offered by GBTI. They were also given a demonstration on the use of
the GBTI Money Zone ATM.
Refreshments and tokens were given at the end of the
tour.
QUEEN’S
COLLEGE WINS REGENT STREET BRANCH’S 3rd ANNUAL IMPROMPTU SPEECH
COMPETITION
Queen’s College defeated St Rose’s High
School to emerge the overall winner of the Guyana Bank for Trade and
Industry (GBTI) Regent Street Branch sponsored 3rd Annual Impromptu
Speaking Competition for Secondary Schools at the finals held on Tuesday,
June 9, 2009 at the GBTI Recreational Centre. Queen’s College
was also the winner of last year’s competition.
Queen’s College scored 696 points to St Rose’s
670 and chose the following topics: Can music change a person’s
mood? Working mothers – good or bad; Should religious education
be taught at all schools?
The topics chosen by the St Rose’s High team
were: The person who has helped me most in my life… Public shame
should be added to the punishment of convicted criminals and Should
young offenders have to go to jail?
The victorious QC students were Saieed Khalil, Richard
Rambarran and Kezia Campbell, who received the winner’s trophy
from Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony. The Minister
congratulated the Bank for organizing the competition and noted that
the skills harnessed through the competition will remain with the students
for life.

Saieed Khalil of Queen’s College emerged the
Best Speaker of the Competition and was presented with his trophy by
Ms Bebi Wharton, Manager, GBTI Regent Street Branch.
The main objective of the Bank for the competition was to train young
people for future social situations in which they may be asked their
opinions on all sorts of issues and be expected to reply immediately
and intelligently.
The other schools that participated in the Competition
were: Annandale Secondary, Central High, Christ Church Secondary, Covent
Garden Secondary, Cummings Lodge Secondary, Institute of Business Education,
Mae’s Secondary, Marian Academy, President’s College, Richard
Ishmael Secondary, School of the Nations, St John’s College, St
Joseph’s High, and St Stanislaus College.
GBTI WATER STREET HOSTS EDUCATIONAL TOUR
FOR ROSIGNOL SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS
On May 29, 2009 GBTI’s Water Street Branch hosted
an educational tour for twelve students of the Fifth Form (Business)
of the Rosignol Secondary School.
The students who were accompanied by a teacher were
advised on the establishment of banking along with the History of GBTI
by Ms Nadia Doodnaught, Salaries Clerk within the Human Resources and
Administration Department, while Mrs Dahana Ramjist, Marketing and Public
Relations Officer described the various products and services offered
by GBTI. They were also given a demonstration on the use of the GBTI
Money Zone ATM.
Refreshments and tokens were given at the end of the
tour.
Impromptu
Speech Competition continues
The GBTI Regent Street Branch sponsored Inter-Secondary
School Impromptu Speaking Competition for Fourth Formers continued on
Tuesday, May 12, 2009, at the GBTI Recreational Centre.
In the first contest, St John’s College showed
better composure and awareness in winning against Institute of Business
Education, scoring 592 points to Institute of Business Education’s
516 points.
The Institute of Business Education team selected the
topics: Reading is the best form of relaxation; Results are more important
than character in our National leaders; The most fundamental wrong is
selfishness.
The St John’s College team selected the topics:
If you were a teacher how would your class be different? Women should
have careers outside of the home; How can we stop domestic violence?
In the second match, Central High School overcame Christ
Church Secondary School 557 points to 506 points. Central High team
selected the topics: Child abuse and the consequences; Sex education
belongs in the school or the home; Free education for students should
be provided at the University of Guyana.
The topics selected by Christ Church Secondary were:
What I want for my country within the next 10 years! Should smoking
be banned in public places?; What I would do to promote tourism in Guyana.
The judges for the match contested were Mr Sheik Sadiq,
Ms Maureen Williams and Ms Abiola Inniss.
On May 14th, 2009 Marian Academy was very formidable
in winning against Cummings Lodge Secondary 619 points versus 517 points.
The topics selected by Marian Academy were: Computers
are more beneficial to education than books; I would rather be poor
than rich; Is HIV / AIDS a scare to you?
The Cummings Lodge Secondary team selected the topics:
What can the business sector do to encourage youths to stay in school?
All secondary school students must study a second language; Gum chewing!
In the second match of the day School of the Nations
overpowered President’s College with 666 points to 574 points.
The School of the Nations team selected the topics: Is Christmas too
commercialized? I prefer a movie to a book; Peer pressure.
The topics selected by President’s College were:
In today’s economic situation what do you think the best career
choice is? Can religious organisations play a positive role in today’s
society? Cell phones do more harm than good.
The judges for the matches contested were Mrs. Lurine
Meertins, Ms Magda Pollard and Mrs Bernadette Persaud.
The Competition continues on Tuesday, May 19, 2009
with Annandale Secondary coming up against Richard Ishmael Secondary
and Queens College competing against St Joseph’s High School.
REGENT STREET
BRANCH COMMENCES IMPROMPTU SPEECH COMPETITION FOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS
On Thursday, May 7, 2009 our Regent Street Branch commenced
its Signature Activity – 3rd Annual Inter Secondary School Impromptu
Speech Competition at the GBTI Recreational Centre, Kaieteur Road, Bel
Air. The competition involves Fourth Formers from sixteen secondary
schools, and runs for one month.
Ms Bebi Wharton, Manager of the Regent Street Branch,
in her opening remarks stated that, when the competition was conceptualized,
“it was with the intention to enhance and nurture the ability
of young minds to convert the reservoir of knowledge they possess into
spoken form. “
Ms, Genevieve Whyte-Nedd, Chief Education Officer,
who offered remarks on behalf of her Ministry commended the Branch on
its initiative as the competition is appropriately positioned as an
approach to coach students in this lost art form.
The competition was declared open by Chief Executive
Officer of GBTI, Mr Radhakrishna Sharma, who stated that as the largest
Guyanese owned banking institution, GBTI sees itself as having an important
role in the development and support of activities that seek to build
individuals and communities, since this benefits the entire country.
Mr Sharma further stated that, “This competition,
with its salient objective of training young people, undoubtedly satisfies
an essential component of the Ministry’s programme for ensuring
that the learning needs of all young people are met through equitable
access to appropriate learning and life-skills programmes and we are
therefore pleased to be partners in this respect.”
First Match - President’s College vs Christ Church
Secondary
The first match in the First Round of competition was
held after the Opening Ceremony with Mae’s Secondary competing
against St Rose’s High. St Rose’s High was adjudged the
winner of the competition with a combined total of 638 points while
Mae’s Secondary scored 557 points.
The topics selected by the students in this match were:
My #1 Role Model
Countries should be allowed to explore their nuclear energy possibilities.
Government should increase the emphasis placed on moral education in
public schools
Opportunities must be provided for under-privileged children.
How do you think teenagers should show a sense of responsibility?
The piercing of body parts (except earlobes) should be prohibited for
anyone under 18.
The panel of judges for the match comprised Dr Joyce
Jonas –Reader- Department of Language & Culture Studies, University
of Guyana, Mrs Barbara Sukhai – Management Consultant and Ms Maureen
Williams – Representative of the Toastmasters Club.
PARIKA
BRANCH REPAINT PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS
Staff of our Parika Branch, on April
22, 2009, repainted pedestrian crossings located near the Farm Nursery
School and in Zeeburg.
This activity marks the Branch’s continued commitment to the welfare
of the community. The Police Traffic Department has lauded the Branch’s
contribution to the country’s road safety drive.
VREED-EN-HOOP
REPAINTS PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS
Staff of our Vreed-en-Hoop Branch repainted two pedestrian
crossings on Sunday, April 19, 2009.
Road crossings located in front of the Vreed-en-Hoop
Primary School and West Demerara Secondary School were repainted by
the Branch in preparation for the commencement of the new school term.

The Branch was lauded by the Traffic Department for
their continued contribution to Road Safety in the region.
EARLY SAVERS ACCOUNT
HOLDERS REWARDED
On Thursday, April 16, 2009, the Bank presented the
prizes to the winners of the Annual Early Savers Club Gift Drawing.
Entry slips are given to account holders for every
one thousand dollars deposited; these slips are completed and placed
in a box at each Branch. Three lucky account holders are drawn and presented
with prizes.
This year, the winners were Yasmin Raza, who saves
at Diamond / Grove Branch; Sarah Sanmoogan - Water Street Branch; and
Mahadev Basdeo - Vreed-en-Hoop Branch. The Prizes were presented by
Mr Terry Gopaul, Manager – Advances, following an address given
by Mr Raymond Forde, Officer-in-Charge, Deposit Accounts.
The winners were encouraged to continue their associations
with the bank as such a relationship will ensure their success as they
pursue their personal goals.
LETHEM BRANCH SPONSORS
PRIZE AT ANNUAL RUPUNUNI RODEO
The Annual Rupununi Rodeo was held during Easter weekend
(April 11th – 12th 2009) at the Triple ‘R’ Rodeo Ground
just outside of Central Lethem.
Our Lethem Branch sponsored the prize for the Bare
Back Bull riding competition which was won by Mr. Paul St. Hill of the
Dadanawa Ranch. This marks the third year that the Branch has presented
this prize. The Bull riding competition is the main event at the Rodeo
and attracted the most contestants in all of the events. The prize of
$50,000 was presented to Mr. St Hill by Mr. Mohan Tularam, Manager of
the Branch.
Other competitions included the Bare Back horse riding
and roping, Barrel races and wild cow milking. The event which is a
major attraction during the Easter weekend was attended by approximately
2000 persons.
LETHEM
BRANCH CONDUCTS CAREER GUIDANCE SESSION AT ST IGNATIUS SECONDARY SCHOOL
Our Lethem Branch conducted a Career Guidance Session
at the St Ignatius Secondary School, on March 27th, 2009. The session
was attended by 4th Form students of the school.
This activity is conducted annually by the Branch and
covered a range of topics relevant to their entry into the job market,
including:
- Careers in Banking
- How to complete a Job Application
- Preparing for the Interview
- Conduct in the Office
- Importance of Non-Verbal Communication
The session lasted for approximately two (2) hours
and the students were very attentive and interactive. The facilitators
of the session were Mr Mohan Tularam - Manager of the Branch and Mr
Troy Budhram – Supervisor.

Headmistress of the school, Ms. Sharmane David expressed
their thanks to the Bank for conducting the session and noted the relevance
of the material presented in preparing the students for their entrance
into the work environment.
GBTI
ANNA REGINA BRANCH PARTICIPATES IN CAREER FAIR
The Anna Regina Branch of the Guyana
Bank for Trade and Industry Limited (GBTI) participated in the 8th Annual
Career Fair held at the Essequibo Technical Institute on March 18, 2009.
The activities for the day commenced with a Cultural programme, including
an address by the Regional Chairman followed by the viewing of the Booths.

The booth hosted by the Bank attracted several hundreds
of students along with teachers of various secondary schools. Flyers
were given to students highlighting the various careers in Banking and
the relevant requirements needed. Products and services offered by the
Bank were also promoted to visitors to the booth.
The booth also displayed photographs of various Community
activities undertaken by the Branch.
GBTI WATER STREET HOSTS
EDUCATIONAL TOUR FOR MACKENZIE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
On March 12, 2009 GBTI’s Water Street Branch
hosted an educational tour for nineteen students of the Lower &
Upper Sixth Forms of the MacKenzie High School of Region #10. The tour
was held as part of research being done by the students on “Caribbean
unity and the bank initiative to make this happen in the future.”
Each year students of the school are hosted on an educational tour by
the Bank.
The students who were accompanied by two teachers were
advised on the establishment of banking along with the history of GBTI
by Ms Nadia Doodnaught, Salaries Clerk within the Human Resources and
Administration Department, while Mrs Dahana Ramjist, Marketing and Public
Relations Officer described the various products and services offered
by GBTI.
Mr Sean Noel, Assistant Manager, Research and Planning,
made the feature presentation on the specific areas of investigation.
These included:
• The role GBTI plays as a financial institution
in the Caribbean.
• CSME as it relates to GBTI.
• The kind of support GBTI offers to the economy
of Guyana.
Snacks and brochures were given to the students at
the end of the presentation.
“GBTI WING”
COMMISSIONED AT GOVERNMENT TECHNICAL INSTITUTE
In 2006 the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Limited
(GBTI) signed a Deed of Covenant with the Government Technical Institute
(GTI) for a period of three years. Through the Deed the sum of two hundred
and fifty thousand dollars was donated annually towards the revitalization
of the Institute. GBTI was the first corporate entity to commit towards
the development of GTI.
GBTI recently played an integral role in the reconstruction
of the Barclays Wing which was renamed the “Guyana Bank for Trade
and Industry Wing.” The unveiling of the plaque was performed
by Mr John Tracey – Director, Credit of the Bank and Mr Onwuzirike
P Chinedu, Principal of GTI on Tuesday, February 17, 2009. Also present
were Ms Collette Lyken, Manager, Human Resources and Administration
– GBTI, Chairman of the Board, Major General (Ret’d) Mr
Norman Mc Lean, members of the Board of Directors - GTI, and teachers
of the Institute.

In his remarks, Mr Tracey stated that the Bank is pleased
to have played a role in the development of GTI.
Mr Chinedu thanked the Bank for its support and remarked
that, not only was the building upgraded, but through the contributions
made by GBTI they were also able to improve the level of tutoring offered
by the Institute.
LETHEM BRANCH SUPPORT
MASHRAMANI CELEBRATIONS
Our Lethem Branch continued its support of Mashramani
celebrations in the region, for the third consecutive year, as they
presented a trophy for the Best Float on Republic Day, February 23,
2009.
The celebrations commenced with a float parade with
entries from the Regional Democratic Council, Ministry of Education
/ Teachers – Lethem, Ministry of Health / Lethem Public Hospital
and New Vision Youth Group. The spectacular parade concluded at the
Tabating Sports Ground for the prize giving ceremony.

The entry by the Ministry of Education / Teachers was
adjudged the Best Float which was witnessed by large number of persons.
The trophy was presented to a representative of the RDC's contingent
by Mr. Mohan Tularam Manager of our Lethem Branch.
PARIKA BRANCH OBSERVES
10TH ANNIVERSARY
On February 6, 2009 our Parika Branch celebrated its
10th Anniversary with activities to thank their customers for their
patronage through the years.
The Branch was decorated and cake and tokens were given
to all customers who conducted business on the day. Also displayed in
the Banking Hall was a collage of photographs of Community Service Activities
for the previous year.
In the afternoon a cocktail reception was held for
customers. Mrs Nandanee Persaud, Manager of the Branch, in her remarks
to the attendees, thanked them for their support through the years and
expressed the Bank’s commitment to serving them in the coming
years.
Through the years the Branch has given back to the
community and customers through activities such as, tours for secondary
school students, Career Guidance Sessions, sponsorship of prizes at
Graduations, repainting of pedestrian crossings, the hosting of an Annual
Christmas Luncheon for underprivileged children within the community
and other charitable work.
GBTI VREED-EN-HOOP
BRANCH CONDUCTS CAREER GUIDANCE SESSION AT WEST DEMERARA SECONDARY SCHOOL
A Career Guidance Session was conducted at the West
Demerara Secondary School on January 28, 2009 by the Vreed-en-Hoop Branch
of the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Limited (GBTI). The session
was attended by approximately seventy (70) Fifth Form students and four
(4) teachers, of the school
The session covered a range of topics relevant to their
entry into the job market, including:
- Careers in Banking
- How to complete a Job Application
- Preparing for the Interview
- Dressing for Success
- Conduct in the Office / Telephone Etiquette
The session lasted over two (2) hours and the students were very attentive
and interactive. The facilitators of the session were Mrs Rambha Persaud
– Chandebal, Manager of the Branch and Mrs Dahana Ramjist, Marketing
and Public Relations Officer of the Bank.
Mr. Harry Narine Fifth Form teacher of the school expressed
their thanks to the Bank for conducting the session and noted the relevance
of the material presented in preparing the students for their entrance
into the work environment.
Tokens and brochures were distributed to all in attendance.
GBTI FURTHERS COMMITMENT
TO EDUCATION
The Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Limited (GBTI)
has made numerous contributions to the development of our young people
through various medium, including Career Guidance Sessions, Donations,
Annual Almanac Competition and Annual Impromptu Speech Competitions.
On Tuesday, January 27, 2009 the bank made another
such contribution through the presentation of copies of “The Arts
Journal” to seven senior secondary schools, at the Bank’s
Water Street office.
Mr. Sean Noel, Officer-in-Charge, Research and Planning,
in his remarks noted that, “GBTI realizes that this magazine has
the potential to have a profound impact on the literary stage and recommends
it to all students and teachers.”

Each of the schools received two copies of the Journal
Volume 4, Numbers 1 & 2 of 2008. The Arts Journal provides fresh
critical perspectives on contemporary history, literature, art and culture
of Guyana and the Caribbean and is an excellent resource material for
CSEC and CAPE students.
In her remarks, Ms Ameena Gafoor, M.A., commended the
Bank on the gesture and noted GBTI’s contributions to the furthering
education in Guyana. She alluded to the Bank’s Annual Impromptu
Speech Competition and its Annual Almanac Competition which features
the thoughts and views of our young people.
The schools in receipt of the Journals are:
Anna Regina Multilateral Secondary School
Bishop’s High School
MacKenzie High School
President’s College
Queen’s College
St Rose’s High School
St Stanislaus College
Ms Juliet Mattis of Queen’s College, thanked
the Bank for its interest in the field and pledged the full use of the
book by the students and teachers using them.
GBTI DIAMOND / GROVE
BRANCH PRESENTS PRIZES TO WINNERS OF NEW ACCOUNT PROMOTION
On Monday, January 26, 2009 the Diamond / Grove Branch
of the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Limited (GBTI) presented prizes
to the winners of the Branch’s “New Account” Promotion.
The promotion was launched on November 17, 2008 with
the opening of the Branch. All accounts opened on or before December
31, 2008 were eligible for entry into the draw.
The winners are:
Mrs Roopwatee Teixeira – Living Room Suite
Mr Anandhat Singh – Microwave Oven
Mrs Bibi Nafeza Mohamed – Dinner Set

In her remarks, Ms Rawattie Mohandeo, Manager of the
Branch, thanked all the customers who opened their account during the
period of the promotion and encouraged other residents to visit the
Branch and take advantage of the many benefits available with GBTI.
GBTI LAUNCHES
2009 ALMANAC
The Bank’s Almanac for 2009 was launched at a
ceremony on Wednesday, December 17, 2008 at the Bank’s Water Street
office. The Almanac addresses what is perhaps the most topical issue
today – global warming and its impact on our environment, under
the theme “Save Earth, Our Home”. Concern for environmental
protection has recurred in diverse forms, in different parts of the
world, throughout history, and the Bank considered it timely to highlight
the solutions of our young people.

Over 200 entries were submitted during the Competition,
of which six were chosen to appear on the Almanac, and, along with another
six outstanding entries are being displayed in the Bank during December
2008.
The six selected entries were submitted by:
Miss Rose Edwards
Miss Manesha Ramnarine
Mas Shivdas Bhawanidin
Miss Maleeka Ally
Mas Jason Nunes
Miss Amelia Mazaharally
The Launch Ceremony was attended by Hon. Robert Persaud, Minister of
Agriculture, who spoke of the Government’s efforts at leveraging
Guyana’s forest resources to access carbon credit financing for
eco-friendly development projects. He congratulated the young people
who were awarded by the Bank and encouraged them to share their message
with their peers.
Also speaking at the Ceremony was Mr. Radhakrishna
Sharma, Chief Executive Officer, who stated that the Bank was pleased
to join with our young people in bringing the issue of a healthy environment
to the fore, as it is one that requires ongoing focus. He noted that
as a nation we must keep careful track of our impact on various elements
of the ecosystem on the earth, develop appropriate ways of regulating
economic activity so that the balance is achieved among environmental,
economic and other social goals and generally implement appropriate
strategies to protect the environment. This, he noted requires partnerships
and collaborative decision making among all levels of government, businesses,
nongovernmental organizations, community groups, and the public at large.