Minister Persaud urges DeHoop residents to use GOAL scholarships to upgrade themselves

Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Hon. Anand Persaud on Wednesday encouraged residents of DeHoop and nearby communities in Region Five to use the Government’s 20,000 online scholarships programme to upgrade themselves.  He met with residents at the DeHoop Primary School.

The Minister said the scholarships were designed to enhance the lives of all Guyanese.  He noted that the scholarships, which are administered by the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL), offers 104 programmes at six international universities.

The scholarship drive is spearheaded by the Ministries of Education and Public Service.  Minister Persaud said even when the PPP/C was in Opposition it held several consultations with the public, which indicated that education should be priority.

As such, it became a focal point when the Government took office in August and it quickly took steps to ensure that opportunities for free education were delivered to the nation, despite race, location or socioeconomic status.  

Minister Persaud said the Government is ready to provide citizens with the necessary tools that would help them to become qualified and marketable, noting that the GOAL programmes are essential in this regard.

“GOAL is to enhance the human capacity development through access to educational opportunities irrespective the place of residence. What is the objective? To make diverse, full online educational programmes accessible to the population. I want to make it absolutely clear that GOAL is free of charge.

When the oil boom takes place in this country, we want our people to enjoy the benefits of securing the best paying jobs and GOAL will allow our children and you to take part in those big jobs that are going to be created,” the Minister said.

Prospective scholars who may have challenges accessing the internet for online classes, would be able to utilise nearby information technology hubs. The Government is also investing millions of dollars to connect more communities to the internet.

At the close of the session, Minister Persaud emphasised the need for residents to get vaccinated against the deadly COVID-19 and follow all guidelines set by the health authorities.

Meanwhile, Member of Parliament, Hon. Faizal Jaffarally said even if the Government’s effort may seem insignificant to some, it is lauded by thousands as a chance to elevate themselves.

“You are a Guyanese and … we are a Government for all the people of this country.  We have made significant progress as a Government over the years in education. We were able to modernise our education sector, provide an environment is conducive both to learning and teaching,” Mr. Jaffarally said.

The Government intends to award a minimum of 4,500 scholarships per year over the next five years through GOAL.