The ground was ceremonially broken on Tuesday for the construction of Micobie Secondary School in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) pegged at $253 million.
The multi-million contract was awarded to NK Engineering Services with an initial mobilisation amount of $76 million. The new facility is expected to be completed in six months and promised to be a cornerstone of educational advancement and community development.
Officials at the event
The school is strategically positioned to benefit approximately 150 students and community members, fostering academic growth and enhancing access to quality education in Micobie.
The project’s impact extends beyond physical construction but rather it symbolises a commitment to nurturing future generations and empowering local communities. By providing modern facilities and resources, NK Engineering Services aims to create an environment conducive to learning and personal development.
The new structure will feature a staff room for teachers and 10 classrooms, including five specialised labs for science, IT, home economics, visual arts, and library services. This comprehensive infrastructure underscores the school’s commitment to providing a well-rounded educational experience, fostering both academic excellence and community development in the village.
During an engagement with residents, Education Minister, Priya Manickchand challenged the parents to be more involved in their children’s lives, noting that regardless of their academic background, their presence alone can aid in the development of their children’s education.
Education Minister, Priya Manickchand being assisted by a young girl to break the ground
“You don’t have to have a PhD, you don’t have to have a big house; you have to have interest. I know of a parent who watches her child do his work from beginning to end. She doesn’t know or understand what he’s doing, but she watches him work. And so, we need your partnership, also. Many times, it’s not parents alone, it’s grandparents also, who I know are taking up that role as well.”
She also added that while the residents are to hold the contractors accountable to deliver on their promise, they too must be reliable, as they will also be benefiting using employment through the school construction.
Minister Manickchand addressing residents
“We want him (the contractor) to give the work to you, we want you to benefit as far as you can, but we want the school. And he had to sign a contract that said how long he had to build the school and the quality he had to give us. So you also have to be reliable and show up when you have to, because this is employment for you.”
Further, the construction of Micobie Secondary School aligns with broader socio-economic objectives, aiming to uplift the region through improved educational opportunities.
The sod-turning ceremony today marks the beginning of a transformative journey, laying the foundation for a brighter future characterised by accessible, high-quality education and enhanced community prosperity.
