The announcement by Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo: that civic education will soon become a compulsory subject in schools, marks a significant and commendable step towards addressing the urgent need for a more informed and responsible citizenry in Guyana. At a time when social tensions have escalated into violence, looting and public disorder, the introduction of structured civic education holds the promise of nurturing a deeper understanding of the values, rights and responsibilities essential for the preservation of democracy and social harmony.
The Vice President’s remarks come in the wake of the tragic death of 11-year-old Adriana Younge and the subsequent protests that spiralled into destructive acts, culminating in dozens of individuals being charged with terrorism-related offences. These events have starkly revealed the fragile state of civic understanding among segments of the population, and highlighted the urgent necessity for deliberate interventions aimed at instilling principles of citizenship, respect for the rule of law, and peaceful civic engagement.
Civic education is a cornerstone of democracies across the world, designed to equip young people with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to actively and responsibly participate in civic life. In Guyana’s context, where social, ethnic and political tensions have historically shaped the national discourse, the reintroduction of civic education into the national curriculum could serve as a transformative tool for building social cohesion and nurturing a generation of citizens who understand not only their rights, but also their obligations to the broader community.
According to the Vice President, the new curriculum would cover a broad array of topics, including the rights and responsibilities of citizens, the Constitution of Guyana, the importance of democracy, the preservation of freedom, patriotism, the integrity of the country’s borders, and religious education. This comprehensive approach is praiseworthy, as it recognizes that civic literacy must extend beyond textbook knowledge to include an appreciation for the moral and ethical dimensions that underpin a functioning society.
Notably, the integration of religious education through the identification of common values shared by the three major religions in Guyana — Christianity, Hinduism, and Islam — demonstrates a thoughtful attempt to weave moral education into the civic framework without alienating any particular group. By focusing on the shared ethical principles across faiths, such as respect, compassion, and honesty, the curriculum can reinforce a collective moral foundation that transcends sectarian lines and fosters unity in diversity.
Designing a curriculum that is inclusive, balanced, and relevant requires extensive consultation with educators, religious leaders, civil society, and constitutional experts. There is also the practical task of training teachers who are not only knowledgeable, but also capable of delivering civic education in a manner that engages students and encourages critical thinking. Additionally, for the programme to have a meaningful and sustained impact, it must be supported by appropriate resources, continuous assessment, and the political will to ensure its effective implementation across all regions and school types.
While civic education can lay the groundwork for better citizenship, it must be understood as being part of a broader societal commitment to strengthening democratic values and institutions. Civic education alone cannot cure deep-seated issues such as political polarization, economic inequality, or social injustice. However, it can play a vital role in equipping the next generation with the tools to navigate these challenges constructively, fostering a culture of dialogue, accountability, and shared responsibility.
The Vice President’s vision of “incubating better citizens” reflects an acknowledgment that sustainable national development is not merely a matter of economic progress or infrastructure expansion; it is equally about cultivating a populace that is informed, engaged, and committed to the collective good. In a nation as richly diverse and historically complex as Guyana, the importance of this endeavour cannot be overstated.
The recent episodes of unrest are a sobering reminder of the consequences that arise when civic understanding is weak. By introducing civic education as a compulsory subject, the Government is taking a practical step towards addressing some of these underlying issues, aiming to nurture a citizenry that is not only aware of its rights, but is also conscious of the responsibilities that come with them.
The decision to make civic education mandatory in Guyana’s schools is a necessary move that deserves broad support. It is a recognition that the health of a democracy ultimately depends on the civic competence and ethical commitment of its people.
