Some $47,157,000 in School Grants have been distributed on Wednesday to nursery, primary and secondary schools in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).
The Ministry of Education’s School Grant gives the schools full autonomy to purchase their resources, and empowers head-teachers to become better managers of their schools. Under the grant initiative, teachers on the coastland will be given $4,000 per child per term, and those in the hinterland would be given $5,500 per child per term. For schools with less than 56 students enrolled, a standard amount of $224,000 per term will be granted.
The teachers who uplifted the grants on Wednesday
The disbursement of school grants means that teachers will no longer have to pay out-of-pocket expenses to enhance their classrooms.
While meeting with head-teachers from across the region, Deputy Chief Education Officer (DCEO), with responsibility for Amerindian Hinterland Education Development, Marti DeSouza, said the grant would enable teachers to deliver the curriculum in creative and innovative ways. He explained that, in the interest of transparency and accountability, a list has been provided to guide teachers. Further, he highlighted that the Ministry has been working assiduously to enhance the education sector for both teachers and students.
Meanwhile, Regional Education Officer (REdO) for Region Seven, Selestine La Rose Bristol, in brief remarks, said the initiative is a welcome one, as teachers would be able to purchase the resources needed in a timely manner.
Head-teachers have praised the initiative, noting that it would assist teachers in ensuring their classrooms are child-friendly and lessons are delivered in innovative and creative ways.
