Minister Garrido-Lowe interacts with students from ETI dormitory

Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe has challenged students from the Essequibo Technical Institute (ETI) to put education high on their list of priorities, so that they can be good providers when they start their own families.

Minister Garrido-Lowe was at the time speaking to live-in students who are preparing to enter the world of work.

“You will become, in time, providers and teachers for your children. So, if you don’t know how to earn money, if you don’t have the capacity, you are not equipped with the knowledge to earn, well then, you will have a hard time because how will you provide,” the Minister stated.

Minister Garrido-Lowe, who has direct responsibility for youth, women, children and sport development, is working assiduously to ensure hinterland students have equal access to educational opportunities as students on the coastland.

The students received commendations from the Minister for their exemplary conduct based on reports from both dormitory mothers who noted that their dedication is reflected in their grades.

However, the dorm mothers said that they would like to see regular preparation of indigenous foods, additional accommodation for students and discussions about their remunerations packages.

They also called attention to a dilapidated building in close proximity of the dormitory. The house mothers said the building, along with old tyres  is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, especially during floods. There is also the danger of zinc sheets flying off the roof during high winds.

Minister Garrido-Lowe has promised to urgently engage the relevant authorities in addressing these matters.

Meanwhile, Lawrence Griffith, the Ministry’s Coordinator for Sport Development in the Hinterland, held discussions with the approximately 60 students about the possibility of starting a sports club.

Mr. Griffith will be returning shortly to assist with the process and will also be conducting refereeing and coaching sessions.

The E.T.I,  which was established in 2000, continues to provide an enabling environment where Technical and Educational innovativeness can be nurtured.