Sod turned for 50th SEND learning space as deaf education expands

Guyana is set to commission another specialised learning environment dedicated to supporting learners who are deaf, marking the country’s 50th Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND) space and reflecting continued progress in inclusive education. On Friday, the sod was turned for the facility at Cummings Lodge, signalling the start of a landmark project in the country’s educational landscape and the commencement of construction on Guyana’s first dedicated School for the Deaf. The development comes amid broader efforts by the Ministry of Education to strengthen educational access for deaf learners. The purpose-built School for the Deaf is designed to accommodate 30 learners and will provide a nurturing environment that supports deaf culture while advancing specialised learning. Beyond functioning as a school, the facility is intended to serve as a resource hub for deaf youths, promoting community engagement and personal development. Construction of the school, valued at G$194,472,570, was awarded to Superior Supplies and General Construction following a public procurement and tendering process. The project is scheduled for completion within nine months.
The sod-turning exercise was led by the Minister of Education and included the participation of the Assistant Chief Education Officer (ACEO) responsible for SEND, Dr Keon Cheung, and Senior Education Officer for SEND, Nikoya Alleyne. Representatives of the Deaf Association of Guyana were also present, including its Director, Sabine McIntosh, whose long-standing contributions to the sector were acknowledged. In addition to infrastructure development, the Ministry of Education has also expanded capacity-building initiatives to support deaf education. The Cyril Potter College of Education has incorporated deaf education into its curriculum, enabling deaf youth enrolled in the SEND programme to participate as teacher candidates. Further training opportunities are also being offered through the institution’s Disability Studies Department for educators interested in teaching learners who are deaf.
The upcoming commissioning of the 50th SEND learning space, alongside the construction of the first dedicated School for the Deaf, underscores ongoing efforts to expand specialised educational environments and strengthen support systems for learners with special education needs and disabilities across Guyana.