Dear Editor
As a father of three, with two attending school, I feel it is my duty to express how I feel about issues surrounding education and to express some of my observations.

Editor, I noticed that the Education Ministry is placing greater emphasis on programmes that were not adequately captured in the past; and at the same time, continuing with its traditional programmes. It is encouraging to see that the Education Ministry is strengthening its psychosocial unit to cater to the needs of children, especially those who are facing challenges which may impede their learning. Such a service will ensure that there are no obstacles to learning.

Mr. Editor, there is now a policy in place to facilitate the reintegration of teenage mothers back into formal education. This will ensure that these young women have another opportunity to make amends. Interventions such as these will benefit any nation as it presses ahead with its developmental agenda.

Another plus is the expansion of the school-feeding programme which ensures that every child is adequately fed in order to function effectively in the classroom. While some might advance the argument that these interventions are mere top-surface issues, as a father and a person who values education, I know that they are essential links to completing an effective education chain that will yield results.

In closing, imagine if all the children of this country can have a healthy meal before they start school. Imagine a society that encourages its teenage mothers to become productive citizens by creating avenues for them to do so and not to berate them. Imagine a society where our children can easily access professional assistance and support with issues affecting them. These social programmes will aid in the strengthening of the education sector and the development of Guyana.

Regards
Leon Persaud