The International System of Units is the modern form of the metric system, and is the most widely used system of measurement in the world. It comprises a coherent system of units of measurement built on seven base units. It defines twenty-two named units, and includes many more unnamed coherent derived units. To keep aligned with the rest of the world, all of Guyana need to make a consorted effort to adopt and use metric units of measurement in trade transactions and in other measurement practices.
In 2002, the Metric System (SI) became the legal system of measurement in Guyana. The seven base units of the legalized system are the kilogram for mass, metre for length, Candela for light, seconds for time, mol for the amount of substance, Ampere for electric current and Kelvin (degree Celsius) for temperature. The decimal nature of the metric system makes it so simple to use. Yet, many consumers continue to request their products and services in imperial quantities and this is a key hindrance to full adoption of the metric system.
The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), the Agency responsible for measurements nationally, has recognized that the adoption of the metric system should start from the top – Policymakers, Ministries of Government and Government Agencies should lead the metric drive. Recognizing the importance, the Policymakers have developed and published an action plan for the implementation of the metric system. Significant emphasis will be placed on this plan going forward and all stakeholders must support the initiatives for success.
At the other end, our school system has already fully adopted the used of the metric system and the younger generation has a good understanding of its application. The GNBS in the near future vows to collaborate more with the Ministry of Education, so as to have students understand and drive the use of the SI system.
As our country’s economy repositions itself with our wealth of resources, we have to push in all facets to be on par with global practices including those related to measurements. It is a fact that today almost all of the countries in the world use the metric system, especially in scientific research, manufacturing and trade. Only a few countries still use the imperial system of measurement or a combination of both measuring systems, which include Guyana.
Nevertheless, most of our local sectors have fully adopted the use of the metric system, even though there continues to be a wrestle between the two systems in the retail sector. The GNBS will continue to explore the best means of educating and imploring those in trade to use the metric system and ensure that metric measuring instruments are verified and calibrated for accuracy.
