JOHAN OSBORNE, the Queen’s College teacher whose home was recently destroyed by fire, was assisted by the Education Ministry on Friday with a new laptop computer, along with monetary donation to assist with immediate needs. Chief Education Officer, Dr. Marcel Hutson, on behalf of Education Minister, Priya Manickchand and staff of the ministry, met with Osborne and made the presentation at the St. Rose’s High School where Osborne’s son is a student.
Dr. Hutson said that though the contribution cannot replace what was lost, it is a stepping stone towards rebuilding.
He said the gesture is in keeping with the ministry’s culture of empathising with its partners and stakeholders not just with words but with actions.
The Chief Education Officer encouraged Osborne not to lose hope and that the staff of the ministry will keep her in their prayers.
The mathematics teacher, on February 13, lost her Lot 204 19th Street, Dazzell Housing Scheme home to fire of unknown origin.

Her 12-year-old son, mother, father and four siblings also occupied the home at the time of the fire.
According to Osborne, the two-storey building became engulfed in flames between 03:00hrs to 04:00hrs. The fire reportedly started in her brother’s bedroom, located at the front of the house. Her brother was awoken to the fire which led to him sounding an alarm, awaking the rest of the household.
She explained that her family tried to douse the flames with water; however, the smoke became unbearable to the extent where they could not breathe and they were forced to retreat. Osborne and her family suffered millions of dollars in losses as they were unable to save anything.
Anyone willing to render assistance to Osborne and her family may contact her on telephone number 679 -6884 or may make a contribution to the Citizens Bank Account No. 219203822.