THE People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government has begun delivering on its promise to ease the financial burden on students and parents, with the official start of the reimbursement of Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination fees.

Earlier this year, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali announced that students would no longer have to pay for up to eight subjects at the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), ensuring that more students can sit their exams without financial constraints.

That commitment took effect on Wednesday, as secondary schools across Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) began issuing refunds to students who paid for their CSEC and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) subjects earlier this year.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader goal to expand access to quality education by removing barriers that prevent students from completing their secondary studies or pursuing higher qualifications.

Parents and students in Region Six welcomed the move, saying it would bring much-needed relief for households already managing the costs of transportation, uniforms, and school supplies. Teachers and school administrators noted that the refund programme also encourages students to register for more subjects and work harder towards better results.
Since returning to office in 2020, the PPP/C administration has prioritised investments in the education sector, from restoring the “Because We Care” cash grant to increasing scholarships and investing heavily in new and upgraded schools nationwide.

The reimbursement of CSEC and CAPE fees underscores the government’s commitment to its manifesto pledge to make education more affordable and accessible to every Guyanese child, regardless of background or income level.

Students in other regions are expected to receive their reimbursements in the coming weeks, as the Ministry of Education continues to roll out the programme across the country.