Minister of Education, Shaik Baksh, has stated that any increase in students’ fees at the University of Guyana (UG), must have the requisite approval of the Council of the University. He was at the time referring to the statement made by the Registrar of the University, Vincent Alexander that the University is considering an increase in students’ fees from the next academic year.
In a release, the Ministry stated that it is expected that the Ministry of Education will be consulted on any such contemplated increase in fees. This is necessary since it will have implications for the Government’s budgetary support for the institution.
Minister Baksh pointed out that only on Wednesday last, Vice-Chancellor of UG, Professor Carrington, was called in to discuss matters pertaining to the University and the status of its Strategic Plan.
He noted that Government as the main funder of the University  fully discussed the Strategic Plan earlier this year with top officials of the University, including Chancellor Professor Compton Bourne, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lawrence Carrington and Pro Chancellor Dr. Prem Misir.
During that meeting, detailed comments were made and views expressed by the Government on how the strategic plan could be improved to ensure the University fulfills its role in contributing to the overall development of Guyana. Ongoing discussions are being held between the Minister and the Vice Chancellor, the release stated.
The meeting held last week charted the way forward to meet anticipated deficits in financing, and the Vice-Chancellor agreed to make a timely submission to the Minister for consideration by the Government, the release said.