PARENTS across Region Two are expressing heartfelt gratitude to the Irfaan Ali-led government following the reimbursement of Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination fees for those who wrote earlier this year.

The initiative, which was announced by President Ali, will bring relief to thousands of families across Guyana, especially those facing financial challenges. Guyanese students who wrote Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) subjects will also benefit, but this does not apply to Region Two as there are no sixth form schools located there.

Region Two’s Regional Education Officer (REdO), Shondelle Hercules, confirmed that a total of 785 students will be benefitting from the initiative which seeks to ease the financial burden on parents. The reimbursement began on Thursday.

“This gesture by the President is a timely and impactful one,” Hercules noted adding, “We have seen an overwhelming sense of appreciation from families who were worried about affording these important exams. This reimbursement not only brings financial relief, but it also motivates students to strive for academic excellence.”

The reimbursement comes as part of a broader government commitment to improving access to education and supporting families throughout Guyana. Recently, President Ali had emphasised the administration’s belief that no student should be hindered by financial constraints when it comes to writing regional examinations.

Many parents in Region Two, particularly from communities such as Charity, Anna Regina, Queenstown, and Suddie, expressed their gratitude for the initiative. Some said the refund will help cover costs associated with further studies, while others said they intend to reinvest the funds into the purchasing of school supplies or to offset transportation expenses for their children.

“President Ali really looking out for us,” said one mother from Lima. “This money will help send my daughter to lessons to prepare for CAPE. I’m thankful.”

Education stakeholders in the region believe the initiative will also lead to an increase in the number of students writing the regional examinations in the coming years, as parents feel more supported.

The reimbursement process in Region Two was organised through the Department of Education, with parents receiving the amount of money they paid for up to eight subjects. The process will last for several days and will be rolled out in keeping with a schedule released by the Ministry of Education.

Region Two’s education sector continues to benefit from targetted support under the current administration, including infrastructure upgrades, an increase in teacher training, and now, direct financial assistance to families.