THE announced Medical College plan by the Patil Group is good news, as a good private international college would provide another alternative for both Guyanese and others to get an education at less cost than may be available elsewhere.  

However, once more the news seem to be somewhat clouded as one newspaper simply provided a headline more or less, while another spoke of the plans to expand to other colleges in a later phase, including Engineering, Allied Health and a Master’s in Business Administration. All of this is welcome providing that the government ensures that any degree programme offered will meet internationally accepted standards.

Responses to many questions regarding the price paid for land, any tax incentive given etc. need to be provided. Once more government must be aware that any project they announce will be scrutinised, hence the need for as full a disclosure as possible to the public. Any official or personal relationship between the group and government or any PPP/C member makes it more critical that the Patil Group do not appear to receive any special favours. The statement by the Patil Group that Guyanese labour and skills will be used, should have been exploited instead of muted by government. It is time to add to the Minister of Information duties to include giving out faster and better information instead of just waiting for public requests. Just saying, let’s not kill the messenger.

N. AUGUSTUS