MINISTER of Education Priya Manickchand visited Phillipai in Cuyuni-Mazaruni, Region Seven on August 15, 2024 to mark the beginning of a transformative project: the construction of the Phillipai Secondary School.
The minister’s visit included a ceremonial sod-turning event and a meeting with local villagers, emphasising the significance of this development for the community.
During her visit, Minister Manickchand engaged with residents, addressing their concerns and highlighting the positive impact the new school will have on the region. She stressed the government’s commitment to accessible and quality education through various initiatives, including the School Feeding Programme, which provides nutritious meals to support students’ learning.

“We introduced the School Feeding Programme because we want to make sure your children learn. Our research shows that learning on an empty stomach is difficult. We started this programme in the mid-2000s, even when we were a heavily indebted poor country, and we provided hot meals to Amerindian villages. The World Bank used us as a model for other countries,” Minister Manickchand explained.

She reinforced that the government’s commitment goes beyond words. “When we say we love you, it’s not just words; it’s action that changes your lives,” she declared. The Minister emphasised that the government focuses on tangible actions that bring positive outcomes for the community. “We don’t come with fancy language; we come here very ordinary. But every time you engage with us, it brings goodness. Even when you don’t see us, we’re working for you.”

The Phillipai Secondary School, valued at G$275,230,000, will be a modern educational facility featuring three key blocks. These include classrooms for Home Economics and Visual Arts, a well-equipped library, eight classrooms with essential sanitary facilities, an administrative space, and a sick bay. The project has been allocated an initial mobilisation amount of G$82,569,000 and is expected to be completed within eight months.

Once completed, the new school will serve approximately 240 students from Phillipai and surrounding areas, including Amokokopai, Klaimalu, Wayalayeng, Chimanapai, Emoikeng, Chinoweing, and Wax Creek. This development marks a significant advancement in local educational infrastructure and underscores the government’s ongoing dedication to improving educational opportunities for all.