As part of a committed effort to clamp down on truancy and keep children in school, the Welfare Section of the Department of Education in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) has stepped up its campaign by conducting home visits. Thus far, over 55 homes were visited on the Essequibo Coast, and alternative
Senior Schools Welfare Officer, Haimraj Hamandeo (left) in conversation with a parent during the truancy campaign
measures were put in place by officers to assist children to attend school.
During the month of May, home visits were conducted at Little Red Village, Onderneeming, Wakapao, Lower Pomeroon, Queenstown, Golden Fleece and Johanna Cecila, among other areas. Parents were visited based on the attendance register at the different schools within the areas.
According to Senior Welfare Officer Haimraj Hamandeo, the home visits have thus far been fruitful. He said at Onderneeming, the effort was a collaborative one between the Headteacher and staff of Johanna Cecelia Secondary. More than 16 homes were visited during that exercise.
The campaign also continues in the Lower Pomeroon River, where visits were
Home visits being conducted during the truancy campaign
conducted at Curimeeru Settlement, Massarie Settlement, Caporoto Island, Fuku Island, and Wakapao Village. During that visit, 25 students with poor attendance records were visited.
At Perseverance, Sand, Golden Fleece and Johanna Cecelia, 15 pupils were visited owing to their poor attendance at school.
Hamandeo met with parents of all the children and words of encouragement were given. He also assured parents that the Department would do everything in its capacity to assist them. He, therefore, called on parents to send their children to school so that they could attain an education.
