Beni Sankar, a prominent Guyanese entrepreneur, has made significant contributions to several key sectors in Guyana, particularly agriculture and aviation. Below are more specific details about his achievements:

Agriculture Contributions

1. Rice Industry Legacy:

Beni is part of the Sankar family, renowned for transforming Guyana’s rice industry. His father, Kayman Sankar, built one of the most successful rice empires in the country. Beni expanded the family legacy by modernizing operations and diversifying into other agricultural ventures.

2. Aquaculture Advocacy:

• Sankar operates a 50-acre aquaculture farm, where he breeds fish such as tilapia and pacu. He has been vocal about the challenges facing the aquaculture sector in Guyana, particularly the lack of access to advanced technology and government support.

• He has proposed the creation of a 1,000-acre aquaculture park with centralized facilities to assist small farmers with technology, feed, and market access. This initiative aims to empower local farmers and boost production .

3. Coconut Farming:

Sankar also ventured into coconut cultivation, recognizing the potential for coconut-based products in global markets. His focus is on sustainable farming practices to ensure long-term industry growth.

Aviation Leadership

• As the President of the Aircraft Owners Association of Guyana (AOAG), Sankar has contributed to the development of Guyana’s aviation industry. He advocates for the improvement of aviation safety, infrastructure, and policies to support local operators .

Economic Insights

• Sankar has been a critic of poorly managed government projects, particularly in the sugar industry, while acknowledging the sector’s importance. He emphasizes leveraging Guyana’s unique position to tap into global markets for agricultural products .

Vision and Advocacy

Beni Sankar envisions a future where Guyana’s agriculture and aquaculture industries are supported by modern technology and efficient government policies. He believes that with proper investments and management, these sectors could contribute significantly to the country’s economic development.

Sir Lalljeet Ruplall: A Visionary Leader and Longest-Serving Headmaster of Anna Regina Secondary School

Sir Lalljeet Ruplall has profoundly impacted Anna Regina Secondary School (ARSS) through his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to education. ARSS has achieved remarkable academic success, topping the country seven times and the Caribbean four times in the CSEC examinations. Four of these outstanding achievements were under the leadership of Sir Lalljeet Ruplall, while the other three were under the guidance of Miss Mohini and Sir Parmeshwar. His dedication to student development and progressive educational reforms has solidified the school’s status as a premier institution in Guyana and the wider Caribbean.

Early Life and Education

Sir Ruplall’s passion for education was evident from an early age. A former student of Anna Regina Secondary School, he attended the institution from 1986 to 1991, excelling in the Science Stream. His educational journey continued at college from 1993 to 1995, followed by an impressive academic career at the University of Guyana between 1999 and 2004, where he earned a Diploma in Banking and Finance and a Business Management degree.

Driven by a desire to continually enhance his leadership skills, he obtained a Certificate in Educational Management from the National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD) and a Master’s in Public Policy and Administration. Most recently, Sir Ruplall has undertaken a PhD in Education, exemplifying his commitment to lifelong learning and the betterment of the educational system.

Leadership at Anna Regina Secondary School

As headmaster, Sir Ruplall has brought a democratic leadership style to ARSS, fostering a culture of academic excellence, discipline, and holistic development. His innovative vision has driven the school to unparalleled success, ensuring its position as a leading educational institution in Guyana and the region.

Educational Reforms and Achievements

Under Sir Ruplall’s leadership, ARSS has implemented significant reforms to align education with the needs of an evolving world. Key achievements include:

• Curriculum Development: Modernizing the curriculum to meet global standards and equip students with skills for the future.

• Integration of Technology: Leveraging modern technology in classrooms to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment.

• Holistic Development: Promoting extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and community service, to ensure students are well-rounded and prepared for life beyond school.

These initiatives have not only enhanced academic performance but also instilled confidence and versatility in students, enabling them to excel in diverse fields.

Community Engagement and Student Welfare

Sir Ruplall’s leadership extends beyond the school’s boundaries. He has fostered strong relationships with parents, local businesses, and community leaders, creating a supportive network for the students. His community outreach programs have provided students with valuable opportunities to contribute to society while gaining practical experience. This focus on community engagement has enriched the students’ educational journey and reinforced the school’s role as a vital part of the region.

Recognition and Legacy

Throughout his tenure, Sir Lalljeet Ruplall has been widely recognized for his contributions to education. His ability to inspire both staff and students has created a lasting legacy of academic excellence and community involvement.

Under his guidance, ARSS has continued to shine as a model institution, setting benchmarks for education in Guyana and beyond. His transformative leadership has left an enduring impact, ensuring that ARSS remains a beacon of excellence for generations to come.

His Legacy Stands as a Beacon of Excellence

Sir Lalljeet Ruplall’s journey from a student to the longest-serving headmaster of Anna Regina Secondary School is a testament to the transformative power of education and leadership. His dedication to academic innovation, holistic development, and community engagement has propelled ARSS to unprecedented heights.

As a visionary leader and lifelong learner, Sir Ruplall has not only shaped the future of countless students but also strengthened the foundation of an institution that continues to inspire and empower. His legacy stands as a beacon of excellence, preparing students to meet the challenges of an ever-changing world. 

Compiled and Written By : Alumni - Nazeefa Barakat (Final Year 2017)

Judge Alli B. Majeed, originally from Guyana, is a retired Brevard County, Florida judge with a remarkable journey. Growing up in the 1950s in Anna Regina, Guyana, Majeed faced economic hardships but found inspiration through education. Thanks to local efforts, including support from a Peace Corps volunteer, he attended high school in Anna Regina and later pursued higher education in the United States. He graduated magna cum laude from Howard University and obtained his law degree from Catholic University.

Judge Majeed became the first judge of East Indian descent in Florida. Appointed by Governor Lawton Chiles in 1993, he served the Brevard community for over two decades. Known for innovative sentencing practices and compassion, he frequently sought to instill life lessons in those appearing before him, encouraging acts of community service and self-reflection.

Majeed retired in 2016 but remains celebrated for his dedication to justice and his inspirational life story—from a rice farmer in Guyana to a respected member of the American judiciary.

To be completed.