Behind every outstanding National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) result is a story of sacrifice, discipline and unwavering determination.
On Friday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), Guyana recorded its best-ever performance at the 2026 National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), with 20 pupils achieving the highest possible mark of 484.52.
One of the top performers, Divya Persaud of the New Guyana School, said earning the country’s top position still feels surreal.
“I never thought I would even get in the top 10, much less first place,” she said, describing the moment she learnt of her achievement.
Persaud credited months of disciplined preparation for her success, explaining that her routine revolved almost entirely around school, extra lessons, homework, and studying.
She also expressed heartfelt gratitude to her Grade Five and Grade Six teachers, who, she said, played an important role in guiding her throughout her primary school journey.
Meanwhile, Giana De Silva of Betterhope Primary School encouraged future NGSA candidates to remain consistent and believe in themselves.
She said success comes from steady preparation, including regularly practising past examination papers.
“You have to stay consistent with your books,” De Silva told DPI. She added that persistence and confidence are just as important as academic ability.
Still overwhelmed by her achievement, she described her emotions as a mixture of excitement and joy. “I feel elated,” she said.
De Silva thanked her parents, grandparents, teachers, friends, and everyone who supported her throughout her educational journey.
For Asiera Mohamed of Graham’s Hall Primary School, preparation for the examination began long before Grade Six.
She explained that her approach focused on fully understanding concepts rather than memorising information, while consistently working through past papers to build confidence.
“This examination preparation started from the lower grades,” Mohamed explained to DPI.
Now celebrating her success, Asiera is encouraging next year’s candidates to remain focused and determined.
“I would tell them to be determined and work and strive for excellence,” she said.
She also expressed appreciation to God, her parents, teachers, relatives, and friends, giving special recognition to her Grade Five and Grade Six teachers for helping her achieve her goal.
The achievements of these young scholars reflect not only academic excellence but also the value of perseverance, supportive families, dedicated teachers, and a strong commitment to learning.
As thousands of students across Guyana celebrate their NGSA results, their stories serve as an inspiration to the next generation of learners preparing to take on the challenge.