GNBS to celebrate National Quality Week, 2021
The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) is set to observe National Quality Week (NQW) during October 10 to 15, 2021, and to mark the occasion, a number of exciting and engaging activities are planned for stakeholders. This week of celebrations surrounds World Standards Day, which is commemorated annually on October 14.
The theme chosen for the 2021 observances by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO), International Electro-technical Commission (IEC) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is “Standards for SDGS – our vision for a better world”.
In a combined message, the aforementioned international standards organisations stated that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which project to address social imbalances, develop a sustainable economy, and slow the rate of climate change, are highly ambitious. However, collectively they believe to reach these goals will require the cooperation of many public and private partners, and the use of all available tools, including international standards and conformity assessment.
“The intense battle against a persistent global pandemic revealed the absolute necessity of addressing the SDGs in an inclusive way, to strengthen our societies, making them more resilient and more equitable. Today, we are asking you to join us on a mission that affirms the importance of the SDGs to build back better. In this pursuit, standards are more relevant than ever,” they said.
The Honourable Minister of Tourism Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, in her message to mark the occasion said “Goals nine and twelve focus on Industry, innovation and infrastructure, and Responsible consumption and production, respectively. These SDGs are directly related to business and commerce, and the Government of Guyana continues to take a comprehensive approach to support business sustainability in Guyana, regardless of their type and size. According to Minister Walrond, “We want to see more businesses grow in numbers and size, and in a considerable way, the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce and its sub- Agencies have been offering direct support towards making this a reality.”
Meanwhile, in his message, the Chair of the National Standards Council (NSC) Mr. Vladim Persaud emphasized that the New Council will pay particular attention to the GNBS response and support to our rapidly developing oil and gas sector. According to the Chair, “It is crucial that all hands be on deck to ensure that the requisite measurement systems are in place, and that crucial internationally recognised standards are adopted for use in the sector.” He further encouraged the Bureau to continue to train and offer support to spinoff businesses which are inclined to offer their products and services to oil and gas companies.
Lastly, Executive Director (Ag) of the GNBS, Ms. Ramrattie Karan noted that, “Standards are the key to guaranteeing sustainability to safeguard the benefits for future generations.” Ms. Karan assured that the GNBS would continue to work with stakeholders in every sector to improve and implement standards for the benefit of all. She added that the GNBS looks forward to new and sustained partnerships with regional and global standards’ organisations as we join in creating a ‘Shared vision for a better world.’
Finally, the ED (Ag,) took the opportunity to express her thanks and appreciation to all members of staff at the GNBS for their committed efforts to provide the standards and services stakeholders need. She also congratulated those staff who would be receiving long serving awards during National Quality Week, 2021.
The GNBS has planned a number of activities in observance of National Quality Week 2021, including radio programmes, a free food safety training for small food handlers and agro-processors, the National Quality Awards Ceremony, Social media engagements, and its Long Serving Awards and Staff Appreciation Ceremony.
The GNBS encourages the Guyanese public to be engage in the activities of National Quality Week 2021 and beyond to learn how its services and standards impact businesses and the life of every individual.
For further information and daily updates, please visit the GNBS website: www.gnbsgy.org or follow us on facebook or Instagram.