The Education Ministry last week commenced the distribution of the $19,000 “Because We Care” cash grants to Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) students in the public and private schools. A total of 582 students are registered to receive the grants across the country. This includes 429 in the public schools offering CAPE and 153 from the private schools.
The distribution exercise commenced last Tuesday following the processing, placement and registration of the students. The grants are being uplifted at the individual schools. Like the distribution of the cash grants to other students in the public and private schools, the expenditure is audited live to ensure there is transparency and accountability throughout the process.
According to the Ministry the exercise will continue this week at CAPE public schools across the country while the distribution will commence at private schools in Georgetown on Wednesday.
Earlier this year, the Government restored the “Because We Care” cash grants to parents of children attending both public and private schools at the nursery, primary and secondary levels. This benefitted thousands of families by increasing their disposable income as well as providing an invaluable education investment to over 12,000 of the nation’s children. The previous Administration had cut the funding from the project in shortly after taking office, forcing an added burden for close to half a decade.
During her visits to various regions at that time, Education Minister Priya Manickchand explained that the grant is not only for educational items but it can be used to purchase items that serve children and support them as they continue along their academic journey.
The Education Minister said that she believes any expenditure in families is a worthwhile investment as it provides a multi-pronged approach to development. She added that the investment made in the children represents the Government’s commitment to ensure that the future of Guyana is secure.
