Pupils in Kokshebai, South Pakaraimas will no longer have to walk for miles to receive an education with the commissioning of a school in their village.
Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand along with Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall commissioned the Kokshebai Nursery School on Tuesday during a visit to the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo region.
A release from the Ministry of Education said that the Kokshebai Nursery School was constructed by Osbert Rebeiro at a cost of $14 million.
Previously, the pupils navigated the rough terrain for more than five miles as they travelled to Taushida, a neighbouring village for their education.
Delivering remarks, Manickchand stated that ensuring each child receives an education regardless of their geographic location remains a top priority for the Government. She told parents that the Government firmly believes that once given the resources, the children of the hinterland can achieve the same success as those on the coast.
The Education Minister said that the Ministry’s Breakfast programme will be extended to the village, textbooks will be given to each pupil and in July, each school-aged child will receive $40,000 through the Because We Care cash grant programme.
While in the village, Ministers Manickchand and Dharamlall commissioned a health facility, the release said. Residents will not have to travel to neighbouring villages to access basic healthcare.
