Dear Editor,
I thank Mr Harry Hergash for his letter in the media on the passing of Dr Harold Drayton (‘Harold Drayton’s legacy will live on’ SN, March 13).
I was still a boy growing up when the University of Guyana was established in 1963, the brainchild of the late Dr Cheddi Jagan. Based on my readings of several pieces of correspondence between Dr Jagan and Dr Drayton, I became aware of the pivotal role played by him in the realization of the university, despite resistance from several detractors who dubbed the university, ‘Jagan’s Night School.’
The University of Guyana, like the Bank of Guyana, is today a key and critical national institution and Dr Jagan must be given credit for his visionary qualities. Both institutions were established in 1963.
This year is the birth centenary of Dr Jagan who was born on March 22, 1918. I am aware of the several commemorative activities planned in his honour by the University of Guyana and other agencies. I think the Bank of Guyana should also consider something appropriate in his honour, such as a special centenary commemorative coin, among other things.
I wish to extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family and friends of the late Dr Drayton on his passing.
May his soul rest in peace.
Yours faithfully,
Hydar Ally
