-says range of initiatives being implemented to promote healthy development, reduce screen dependency

MINISTER of Education, Sonia Parag, has said the government is implementing a broad, multi-layered approach within the education system aimed at strengthening literacy, improving student wellness, and reinforcing values-based learning.

The minister made this known while responding to questions during a recent stakeholder consultation, as she indicated that these are all being rolled out as part of efforts to address the impact of social media and screen dependency on children.

She said reading will now be treated as a stand-alone subject rather than a component of other subjects, alongside the expansion of school libraries to create dedicated spaces for structured learning and group reading activities.

“We planned to put reading as a stand-alone subject and not a component of another subject,” Parag said, noting that the changes are intended to improve foundational literacy outcomes.

The minister also pointed to the introduction of literacy assessments in Grades Two and Four in 2026, which she said will support the goal of ensuring that all children are literate by the time they complete Grade Four.

With the roll out of the Guyana Digital School, she noted that they are in the process of implementing a wellness programme in collaboration with a local yoga centre. She said the initiative is part of efforts to support students’ emotional and mental well-being in a digital age.

Additionally, moral and civic education has already been introduced from nursery through to secondary level as part of a broader strategy to build character and guide behavioural development from an early age.

“We have started that already, and moral education is one of those channels that can assist with behavioural patterns from a very early age,” she explained.

Parag said the approach is also designed to build self-esteem and confidence among children, helping them to develop internal validation rather than relying heavily on external approval.

She also referenced Friday afternoon physical education sessions, which she said were introduced not as punishment, but to encourage outdoor activity, discipline and reduced screen time.

“These things we are implementing are going exactly towards the end results,” she said while adding that the overall strategy is intended to produce well-rounded students equipped to navigate modern digital and social pressures.