Ex-principal honoured

Sanowar, a past pupil and former principal of San Fernando Girls’ Government School during 1993 to 2005 was among 28 awardees honoured at the President’s House yesterday as the country marked its 44th Independence.

Humbly basking in her achievement Sanowar, who spoke to Newsday at her Rushworth Street, San Fernando, home yesterday admitted that she was pleasantly surprised to be honoured. “It was only two weeks ago I received a telephone call informing me of the possibility of being honoured. Honestly, I am still shocked.”

Currently the principal of Cedar Groove Private Primary School, Sanowar, said that her inspiration to become a principal was influenced while she was attending primary school. “Dr Merle Hoyte was my mentor, her dedication to her job as principal impacted heavily on me that I vowed to follow in her footsteps.”

Sanowar added, “I am particularly proud that during my tenure as principal I was able to make my school accomplish several achievements to be on par with other school.”

Meanwhile, although Caroni’s Chief Executive Officer Deosaran Jagroo was not on hand to receive his Public Service Medal (Gold) award he expressed jubilation over his achievement.

Jagroo, who is currently out of the country on a cruise in Jamaica, said he was pleased that his contribution to the country was recognised by public servants.

“There are many loyal and dedicated public servants who are interested in taking our county to first world status, when I receive my award it would be on behalf of all dedicated public servants.”

Asked how he felt to receive an award as CEO of Caroni which resulted in some 10,000 sugar workers losing their jobs during the restructuring process Jagroo said, “I was elated to be part of the leadership operations during the restructuring of Caroni.

“In my view Government made the right decision to restructure Caroni, because over the years the company has been a difficult entity to deal with.”

Saying that the boom in the economy had absorbed the ex-Caroni employees Jagroo said, “Government placed the necessary plans in place before the restructuring process began.”