Govt’s 20,000 scholarship programme officially launched in Linden

Government on Monday rolled out its Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) 20,000 online scholarship initiative in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), as residents of both Mackenzie and Wismar were given the opportunity to apply for various free online educational programmes.
Speaking at the launch of the programme at the Linden Concert Hall and School (LICHAS), Public Infrastructure Minister Juan Edghill urged Lindeners to make full use of the opportunity as he stressed the importance of education. Reiterating the belief that education is the key to success, the Minister said this was yet another one of Government’s election commitments being fulfilled as it opens up the door of opportunities to Guyanese.
“We said we would do 20,000 online scholarships and here we are today, promise being fulfilled…I’m extremely proud that in this rollout of the scholarship programme, Linden, Region 10, was not left as a ‘tail end’ to offer the opportunity. You are centre, you are up front. This programme have not gone to many Regions and it is in Region 10…The People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government believes in equal opportunity and equal access. Hence, today we are in Region 10 to ensure you are not left behind but you have the opportunity to uplift yourself through education,” the Minister told the packed room of interested applicants.
“Guyanese from all walks of life can decide to walk through the door of educational upliftment, educational advancement…where it is not costing you anything but your commitment and dedication to study. The government of Guyana will fund every dollar for your scholarship,” Edghill assured.
Noting that one of the concerns is the issue of unstable internet connection, the Minister noted that Government is committed to ensuring every Guyanese enjoys affordable and accessible internet services. He related that already, Government has taken Value Added Tax (VAT) off of data services. He emphasised that Government is also committed to ensuring data and bandwidth are available in all areas, including riverine communities.
“Whether it is Private Sector or whether it is State sector, we are committed towards a layout, granting licence and ensuring that data and bandwidth is available…People must be able to study and have access to the internet. So don’t be afraid to apply. Improvements are coming in the Information Communication Technology sector…” Edghill said.
He further noted that Government understands the value of Information and Communications Technology as he pointed out that with more competition and greater bandwidth, the cost will decrease.
“So, one is bringing the cost down and two, is making sure you have stable, reliable and accessible internet capacity. And your Government will bring that to you. We are working on that,” he assured.
Pointing to advancements in the sector, the Minister said already, the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) is fully online and accessible to teachers across Region 10.
“The PPP/C understood the plight of people in communities like Region 10 where there is no on-site campus… This is a way to go, to make life more comfortable and easier for the people of Guyana. That’s what we’re doing. This is being complemented by the Smart Classroom initiative…” Edghill pointed out.
He further assured interested applicants that Government is fully committed to bringing development all across Guyana.
The Minister said opportunities will be made available, through the regional structure to facilitate the transmission of documents for those who were not ready to do so on Monday. Interested applicants can also upload documents online. This should be done as soon as possible, the Minister encouraged. The Minister and team will be visiting Sub District Two on Friday and will return to Linden in the afternoon to engage applicants. Following the launch at the LICHAS Hall, Edghill also engaged interested applicants at the New Silvercity Secondary School in Linden. He also assured all that the online portal is now open for applicants at guyanagoal.org