-ANUG backs government’s decision to pay fees for regional exams

A NEW and United Guyana (ANUG) has publicly commended the Government of Guyana for its recent decision to fund the cost of up to eight subjects at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) level free of cost, starting in 2025. President Dr. Irfaan Ali subsequently disclosed that the same arrangement will apply for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE).

Calling the move “progressive and impactful,” ANUG on Thursday emphasised that the initiative marks a critical step toward educational equity and national development.

ANUG in a press release stated that the government is empowering students from all backgrounds to pursue their academic and career goals without limitations.

“This initiative is a significant step toward improving access to education and ensuring that every child, regardless of economic background, has the opportunity to succeed.”

ANUG also pointed out the potential social benefits of the policy, particularly within households. The reduction of financial stress, the party said, could help ease family tensions that often arise from the pressure to fund education pressures that sometimes lead to absentee parenting, domestic conflict, or destructive coping mechanisms like substance abuse.

The party also used the opportunity to issue a heartfelt appeal to families and students to embrace the opportunity and view education as a gateway to positive transformation.

ANUG reaffirmed its support for initiatives that point to an investment in young people and promotion of social progress.

The party also praised other government backed education programmes, including the annual school children’s cash grant, free university education, the GOAL scholarship initiative, expanded technical and vocational education opportunities, and ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure and teacher training.