Guyana’s education sector is adding a new ingredient to its menu of innovation. EduYou FM, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, has officially launched its inaugural “What’s in the Oven” Baking Competition, giving students a platform to showcase their skills while aligning classroom learning with real-world culinary standards.
The contest, unveiled as part of Education Month activities, is designed to sharpen creativity, teamwork, and presentation. Organisers say the initiative goes far beyond baking; it encourages students to see food and nutrition as a foundation for employability, entrepreneurship, and academic growth.
Education Officer Ronella Harris described the competition as a bold step in creating interactive and practical experiences for students.
“We want to see performance soar next year. This isn’t just a competition—it’s interactive, aligned with real expectations, and nurtures ideas that can come to life,” she explained.
Participants were tasked with preparing uniform cheese straws, judged on taste, consistency, hygiene, creativity, and professional presentation. The panel of judges included well-known figures from Guyana’s hospitality and nutrition sectors, ensuring the competition meets the same rigorous standards applied in industry kitchens.
Minister of Education Sonia Parag praised the launch, linking it to a broader vision of technical and vocational skills development. “We can no longer think within four walls. Creativity and technical skills must grow if we are to transform and keep pace with the times,” she said.
The event is one of the first major activities to kick off Education Month, which this year emphasises quality, innovation, and holistic learning. Organisers hope the competition will inspire students to view fields such as culinary arts, food science, and hospitality as viable career paths, especially as Guyana undergoes rapid growth in its tourism and service industries.
While only one team will ultimately win, education officials stress that the competition itself is already a victory—highlighting the shift toward hands-on, skills-based learning that equips students to thrive in an evolving economy.
