Bebe Isha Beekie was among the first four women to graduate from the University of Guyana (UG) in 1967. Bebe pursued her university studies in an era when traditional gender roles were deeply ingrained in Guyanese society.
Bebe Isha Beekie at UG’s First Convocation Ceremony in 1967 [Photo: University of Guyana]
TRADITIONAL GENDER ROLES – BREAKING THE GLASS CEILING
Women were often expected to fulfil domestic roles rather than pursue higher education or professional careers. However, changing attitudes, influenced by global shifts in gender norms, began challenging these expectations.
Bebe’s son, Dr. Raj Beekie, shared that his mother was the first to walk across the stage to receive her diploma. He also spoke about her decision to pursue higher education and her academic journey at the University of Guyana.
Dr. Beekie shared that his mother was deeply passionate about education and the empowerment of young women. Unfortunately, she passed away in December 2022 at the age of 87.
BETTER CARE FOR HER FAMILY
He recounted that his mother’s decision to further her studies was driven by the reality that their family was growing “faster than my father’s paycheque.”
The first group of students to graduate from the University of Guyana in 1967 at the Institution’s Convocation Ceremony held at Queen’s College. [Photo: University of Guyana]
BOLD STEP – UG IN 1963
In 1963, this mother of four made a bold decision and enrolled at UG. At that time, UG was just founded at Queen’s College in Georgetown.
Dr. Raj Beekie, Associate Professor in the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) at Saint Mary’s University in Minnesota [Photo: University of Guyana]
Her lecturers not only encouraged her to resume her studies but also supported her while she was on breaks. They admired her determination and resilience and acted as mentors in ensuring she received the necessary information to cover her brief absences.
Hailed as a trailblazer for women in higher education in Guyana, Bebe chose as her thesis topic: “Historical Influences on Guyanese Creolese.”
This research involved extensive travels across different regions of Guyana, recording and later analysing the structure of the Creolese language.
A TEACHER BY PROFESSION
After completing her university studies, Mrs. Beekie taught full-time at Saint Joseph’s High School for two decades.
Her achievements as a teacher brought her immense pride. She was respected not only as an educator but also as a relative, friend, and neighbour.
In her reflective poem, where she wrote about a proud moment during her graduation, Mrs. Beekie captured the mood.
Vivid memories of the pomp and ceremony, the visiting dignitaries gowned in their impressive colours, the newly enrolled students overwhelmed by their commitment, and Dr. Lancelot Hogben, Vice Chancellor, delivering his inaugural Dissertation to the attentive ears of that august audience still surface to the mind.
She also wrote about her experience at the university.
It’s a question of inspiration and sacrifice, excitement and goals, hard work and success. They followed four years of challenges, dedication, and creativity from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., and William [her husband] arriving promptly to take me home to my six children all in bed fast asleep and to the burning of the midnight oil.
ENCOURAGEMENT FOR WOMEN
To this end, Dr. Beekie emphasised his mother’s enduring encouragement for women to pursue academic aspirations and serve as mentors to others in their communities.
He noted her association with inspirational and influential women who appreciated her passion and commitment.
Dr. Beekie attributed his mother’s success to her husband’s unwavering support. He highlighted her continued mentorship and support for young individuals until her passing.
