Recover Guyana on Wednesday launched the fourth edition of its national youth environmental speech competition, SHOUT4Change, as Earth Day 2026 is marked globally under the theme “Our Power, Our Planet.”
The programme, delivered in partnership with the Ministry of Education and supported by ExxonMobil Guyana, is designed to strengthen youth environmental advocacy while embedding science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) into school-based sustainability initiatives.
The initiative has evolved into a nationwide platform encouraging students to develop practical solutions to environmental challenges, including climate change, waste management, water security, biodiversity loss, and renewable energy.
Project lead Dave Lalltoo said the competition goes beyond public speaking. “It is not just about speaking, it is about solutions,” he said, adding that STEM integration is intended to build critical thinking skills needed to design practical, school-based environmental interventions.
Assistant Chief Education Officer (Secondary) Sherwyn Blackman said the programme aligns with national efforts to expand STEM education. He noted increased participation across all 11 education districts, including schools newly engaged in the competition this year.
ExxonMobil Guyana Community Relations Supervisor Ryan Hoppie said SHOUT helps students build innovation and stewardship skills. “It’s not just about finding an amazing project, but also responsibility and awareness that extends beyond schools into communities,” he said.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr, delivering the keynote address, said young people’s ideas would be central to addressing future global challenges through innovation and collaboration.
The 2026 edition features 20 national finalists from secondary schools across Guyana. The competition will unfold in four phases, beginning with a one-minute video pitch proposing a $1 million school-based environmental improvement.
Subsequent rounds include prepared speeches, impromptu responses, and a final stage on World Environment Day, June 5, 2026, to determine the national winner.
More than $4 million in prizes will be awarded, including cash, laptops, internet service packages, and education vouchers. The top school will also receive funding for an environmental project, alongside participation and special category awards.
Since its launch in 2023, SHOUT has supported youth-led initiatives in water purification, hydroponics, and recycling projects.
