AS Guyana accelerates efforts to modernise its education system, the Ministry of Education is intensifying its push to improve mathematics performance, while simultaneously preparing students for a digital future shaped by artificial intelligence (AI).
The dual-track strategy, which includes targeted maths camps, expanded digital learning tools and the structured integration of AI into classrooms, is already gaining traction nationwide.
Speaking on a recent edition of the Starting Point podcast, Chief Planning Officer at the Ministry of Education, Mischka White-Griffith, outlined the ministry’s vision to build a sustainable, high-performing education system, anchored in stronger mathematics outcomes and responsible use of emerging technologies.
MATHS PUSH GAINING TRACTION
Improving pass rates in Mathematics has long been a challenge not only in Guyana , but also across the Caribbean and remains a central focus of the ministry’s education agenda.
White-Griffith described mathematics as a persistent global hurdle, but noted that Guyana is now deploying what she termed “ground-breaking, innovative” interventions to shift outcomes.
Among the flagship initiatives are the recently introduced maths camps, also referred to as “maths tents,” which offer free, targeted lessons for students across multiple grade levels at locations countrywide.
The initiative, she explained, is designed to deliver focused, topic-specific support rather than a one-size-fits-all approach and the schedule is published on the ministry’s Facebook page.
“Students were quite excited about it because it’s focused. With the maths camps, we are focusing on topics per session,” she said.
She added that the structured format allows students to engage only in areas where they need improvement.
“You do not have to attend every session if you do not need work on every topic… you come in for the content that you need the most support. That is what the students like.”
The programme is supported by the ministry’s network of maths monitors, and early feedback points to improved engagement, smaller class sizes, and more effective content delivery.
Parallel to the physical camps, the Guyana Digital School is playing a growing role in supporting mathematics education.
White-Griffith noted an increase in student participation on the platform, particularly within its mathematics programmes.
“We are seeing more students logging into the digital school and onto the math programme,” she said.
However, beyond access and resources, the ministry is targeting a deeper issue, the long-standing cultural perception of mathematics.
“Culturally, we have to view maths differently… it is the key to life,” she emphasised, adding that parental involvement and open conversations are critical to removing fear and building confidence among students.
AI INTEGRATION WITH GUARDRAILS
At the same time, the ministry is moving to proactively address the growing influence of artificial intelligence in education, positioning it as a tool to enhance learning rather than replace it.
White-Griffith made it clear that while AI is becoming unavoidable, its use must be carefully managed to preserve critical thinking and academic integrity.
“The technology is there to enhance what we do, it is not there to do it for us. We do not want it to be a system whereby students just go to ChatGPT… and get an answer,” she cautioned.
She acknowledged that integrating AI into classrooms will come with challenges, particularly around ensuring ethical use, but maintained that adaptation is necessary to keep Guyana aligned with global education standards.
“We cannot put our heads in the sand and say we do not want our children to use this. We may have a few bumps along the way and that is fine, because you have to go through that teaching process,” she added. “We will get to the balance whereby critical thinking and the responsibility for the student to do their own work will be kept.”
With a dual focus on strengthening core-subject performance and guiding the responsible use of emerging technologies, the Ministry of Education is positioning itself to not only address longstanding challenges in mathematics, but also to equip students with the skills and mindset needed to navigate an increasingly digital and complex world.
