As the University of Guyana (UG) prepares to celebrate its 2025 graduation ceremonies this November, a few extraordinary families are preparing for a moment of shared pride. Among the 3,600 graduands set to cross the stage are three sets of siblings whose stories reflect the power of unity, love, and resilience in the face of adversity.
From Ann’s Grove on the East Coast of Demerara to Betsy Ground in East Canje, these families have weathered hardship, loss, and sacrifice to achieve a collective dream — a university education and a brighter future.
The Jarvis Brothers: Faith Through Grief
For the Jarvis brothers — Jerron, Justin, and Andrew — graduation marks not just academic success but the fulfilment of a promise to their late mother, Nurse Penelope Sertimer-Jarvis.
At 25, Jerron Jarvis will graduate with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree. His journey was defined by immense loss, including the death of a sibling, a close friend, and finally, his mother — just two months before his graduation.
“She always told me I’d be a doctor one day,” Jerron said. “I wanted to work alongside her—doctor and nurse, mother and son. Though she isn’t here, I know she’s proud.”
His brother, Andrew Jarvis, 33, who has worked as an auto electrician with the Ministry of Public Works for 15 years, will earn a Bachelor of Arts in Occupational Health and Safety. Balancing work, studies, and family, Andrew credits his faith for his success. “It was hard juggling everything, especially after losing our mother, but with God’s mercy, I pulled through,” he said.
Together, the Jarvis brothers’ achievement is a testament to perseverance through pain — proof that faith and family can sustain even the most broken hearts.
The Bakhsh Siblings: Determined to Succeed
For Julio and Amelia Bakhsh, their graduation is a crowning moment not just for themselves but for their large family of seven. The siblings, who grew up on the East Coast of Demerara, will both graduate this November — Julio with a Bachelor of Science in Applied and Exploration Geology, and Amelia with a Bachelor of Science in General Psychology.
“It’s a hallmark for our family,” Amelia shared. “Julio and I are the last two to finish our degrees, and it means so much given where we came from and where we are now.”
Julio, who works with the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), managed to balance work and fatherhood, graduating top of his programme with a 3.8 GPA. Amelia, a full-time teacher who earned a government scholarship in 2022, will graduate with a 3.7 GPA. “The road wasn’t easy, but faith and family got us here,” she said.
The Baljit Sisters: From Village Dreams to University Reality
In Betsy Ground Village, East Canje, sisters Devika and Nandani Baljit have made family history as the first to graduate from university.
Devika, 23, will receive a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science, and Nandani, 20, will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy.
“This moment feels like a dream we all shared,” Devika said, while Nandani added, “Our parents made countless sacrifices, and this achievement belongs to all of us.”
Their studies began amid the COVID-19 pandemic, where online learning, frequent power outages, and poor connectivity tested their determination. When in-person classes resumed, Devika moved to Georgetown dorms while Nandani continued her studies from Berbice. The sisters remained each other’s motivation, sharing schedules and encouragement across the miles.
Now, Devika hopes to work at the New Amsterdam Hospital Laboratory and advocate for better healthcare in her community, while Nandani plans to become a certified professional accountant and inspire others to pursue higher education.
Across every story, one message resonates — that success is sweeter when it’s shared. As these siblings cross the stage this November, their caps will soar individually, but their victories will rise together.
The University of Guyana, celebrating its 62nd anniversary this year, continues to stand as a beacon of transformation. With over 11,500 students, 9 faculties, and 10 research institutes, UG has produced more than 71,000 alumni — each contributing to Guyana’s growing legacy of knowledge, resilience, and excellence.
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