EDUCATION Minister, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine has said the “Because We Care” $10,000 grant programme will continue but will be reviewed, with strong focus being placed on the families of poor students in the school system, rather than being a willy-nilly handout.This programme was one of a series of initiatives implemented countrywide by the previous Government to lessen the burden associated with sending children to school, particularly on poor parents; and it was hailed as welcome and timely support by parents.

But though the intention of the programme was laudable, the manner in which it was implemented — with no criterion to determine who benefits — was more reflective of political gimmickry, and was well criticised. Many had felt that the programme should have been tied to students’ performance, with focus being on building strong parental involvement in their children’s education, which would more likely have accrued value for the money invested.

Even children who hardly attended school and those with well-off parents benefited from the initiative championed by then subject minister, Ms. Priya Manickchand.

From observations, the across-the-board distribution was not the ideal approach for a Ministry that was looking to have some positive impact on students in depressed communities.

What obtained under that system was that the grant was distributed equally among students coming from rich and poor homes, whereas the purpose of the programme was to support needy parents; and the sum of $10,000, though welcome, is not enough help for poor single-parent mothers.

Many were of the view that the money should have been channelled where it is more needed, excluding those who can live comfortably without it, and increasing the amount to those who are in need.
But the recipient child must be both regular and punctual at school, and perform satisfactorily or demonstrate an interest in learning, driven by strong parental support.

These steps, it was felt, would be necessary if the Government is to reap any meaningful benefit from the programme.

It was also suggested that the grant must be strategic in focus, since it can also be a useful tool in stemming the high dropout rate in the school system, particularly at the secondary level. This problem is linked to economic and other family issues, and is due largely to poor grounding at the primary level. Enough is not being done to correct students’ weaknesses at an early stage, some felt.

Dr. Roopnaraine has said this programme, along with several others, will be subjected to a thorough review, as the Ministry moves to ensure that Government’s investments are well spent.

By Shivanie Sugrim