President David Granger, last evening, paid homage to his former history lecturer at the University of Guyana (UG), distinguished historian and humanitarian, Sister Mary Noel Menezes, who at age 87, launched her new book entitled ‘Guyana and the Wider World’, which features a collection of her essays and addresses. Topics covered in the book include education, Christianity, Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples a
All proceeds from the sale of the book will be donated to the Mercy Boy’s Home.
Publisher, Mr. Vic Insanally presented a cheque for $100,000 in advance in anticipation of expected sales to Sister Celine Marie of the Home.
President Granger poses for a photo with Sister Mary Noel Menezes as she holds a copy of her book.
In his remarks at the launching ceremony, which was held at Cara Lodge, President Granger spoke fondly of his interactions with Sister Menezes, describing her as a meticulous and dedicated teacher, who gave her students a granular method of instruction, particularly as it relates to research. He told the gathering that Sister Menezes published a book called ‘A guide to historical research’ and later penned another book entitled ‘How to do better research’.
He noted that Sister Menezes’ students will never forget her because she helped them to develop their intellectual foundation and this is quite evident in their accomplishments later in life. Past students include former UG Vice Chancellor, Dr. James Rose, former Registrar, Dr. David Chanderballi, former Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Mr. Carl Singh, former Dean of the School of Education and Humanities, Mr. Tota Mangar, UG’s first Master’s graduate, Dr. Basdeo Mangru and, of course, President Granger.
Another close friend of Sister Menezes, Dr. Nigel Gravesande said that quite apart from her academic achievements, she led a life of faith to God and dedication to the service mankind.
Sister Menezes’ friend and colleague, Dr. Winston McGowan, who edited the book, described her as an observant and militant individual who held very strong views on a wide range of issues and said that this book, which documents some of those views, is worth being added to individual library collections.
Sister Menezes who was born in 1930, is a nun, Emeritus Professor of History, philanthropist, author and recipient of the country’s second highest National Award, the Order of Roraima as well as the Golden Arrow of Achievement. She also received an Honorary Doctorate of Laws Degree from the University of the West Indies. She joined Religious Sisters of Mercy at the age of 17.