More than 30,000 register for online courses – Min. Manickchand

Minister of Education, Hon. Priya Manickchand says 31,438 Guyanese are currently registered in the Ministry’s recently launched virtual learning initiative in collaboration with the Commonwealth of Learning.

The collaboration provides free access to 4,000 certified online courses offered by Ivy League and other reputable universities through Coursera.

More than 13,000 persons are actively pursuing courses with 368 set to graduate on Tuesday with others across the Caribbean.

Minister Manickchand said the Ministry had no direction or policy created for young people during the COVID-19 pandemic when she entered office.

“Our young people were starved for training when we provided this opportunity…This country got the invitation to this programme at the end of April but they [Opposition] were too busy fighting for power to serve the people. They were even reminded in July, but nothing. We, however, will not be a government like that,” Minister Manickchand said.

Statistics show 307 registrants from Region One; 1,062 from Region Two; 4,699 from Region Three; 18,592 from Region Four; 1,532 from Region Five; 2,918 from Region Six; 3,003 from Region Seven; 65 from Region Eight, and 278 from Region Nine.

More than 400 people have already received their certificates. Minister Manickchand said the tremendous interest being shown by young people countrywide encourages the government to continue such initiatives.

“The Opposition speaks about the benefit for young people in this Budget well, approximately 12,992 persons between the ages 0-25 registered while 11,087 persons between 25-35 and even two persons between the ages of 75-102,” she said.

The Ministry also plans to assist people in the hinterland communities who lack internet access or devices.

The deadline for registration has been extended to October 31. Interested persons can register at the website: www.education.gov.gy/upskill

The certificates presented upon completion will be recognised by the Ministry. The initiative runs until December 31.