$298.8M modern primary school to transform learning conditions in St. Cuthbert’s Mission

A new $298.8 million primary school to be constructed in St Cuthbert’s Mission (Pakuri) will provide a modern solution to years of overcrowding and poor ventilation at the community’s existing educational facility.

For years, students and teachers have struggled in an environment where limited space and excessive heat disrupted the learning process.

As student numbers began to exceed the building’s capacity, community leaders moved decisively to secure a long-term solution.

On Tuesday, the Department of Public Information (DPI) spoke with Toshao Alvoro Simon, who acknowledged that “Overcrowding and ventilation were major concerns. The heat inside the building made learning difficult, and it was clear we needed a new school.”

The initiative, which became popular in 2025, was discussed at various levels, including national forums and meetings with government officials.

Following sustained advocacy and consultations involving the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), educators, and residents, a suitable plot of land was identified and subsequently approved by the Ministry of Education.

Toshao Simon emphasised the collaborative effort behind the development.

“This project is the result of continuous engagement with the government. It shows that our voices are being heard and that there is a strong partnership to address the needs of our community,” he said.

The new facility is set to significantly enhance the learning environment, with designs incorporating improved ventilation, expanded classroom space, and a dedicated science laboratory.

The land space will also feature areas for recreational activities, alongside provisions for future growth, including the construction of a kitchen to support the national school feeding programme.

Construction activity has already commenced, with materials arriving on site and a job fair held to allow villagers to participate in the project.

The school is expected to be completed by April next year.

Once finished, it will accommodate up to 200 students, nearly doubling the current capacity.

Highlighting the broader significance of the project, the Toshao noted, “Education is fundamental. This school is not just a building; it is an investment in our children and the future of our village.”

The education sector was allocated $24.3 billion in Budget 2026 to support infrastructure expansion, improved learning resources, teacher training, and enhanced access to quality education across Guyana.