 |
 |
 |
|
December 2013
|
For five years, from the time he was just about 15, Sookraj had worked privately for the manager at UWI’s Works Department, and when he retired he got him a position as a “power-mower operator” at The UWI. “I worked for $18 a week as a yard boy for Mr Cook,” he says, and when he got the job at UWI, it was to maintain the grounds as part of a steady group of staff whose job it was to handle all aspects, including clearing garbage. Now, he says, most of the tasks are separated and contracted out. It is one of the many changes he has seen in those decades he spent loyally giving his gardening skills to the famous grounds of the St Augustine campus, where everyone knows him as ‘Bal.’ “I enjoyed myself,” he says. “I never miss a day work. I get up in the morning and I come to work. Me and all the staff get along. I enjoy myself.” He marked his 65th birthday in September and now that he is on pre-retirement leave, Sookraj says he is taking it easier, but basically fills his days with the same kinds of activities that dominated his working life. “I get up as normal at 4 o’clock every morning. I take a little walk. I cut my lawn. I take care of the flowers,” he says; and he spends time with his family. He lives with his wife and his brother is right next door. “We live very happy,” he says. This Christmas, he is already planning a lime for the entire family to come over and have some food and share a few drinks. He seems contented… as he puts it, he lives peacefully and happily. It has always been his way. “Long time things was different too,” he says, “but still, I am the same Mangroo Sookraj.” |
Mangroo Sookraj has worked with The UWI for 45 years, making him the longest serving of the 249 employees who were recognized and celebrated on November 15 for 25 years and more of service.