THE GOAL Scholarship Programme is transforming access to higher education for persons living with disabilities across Guyana, according to Ganesh Singh, Programme Coordinator of the Guyana Councill of Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD).
According to him, the programme is removing barriers that kept many people in this vulnerable group from seeking tertiary-level education. Online learning has changed the lives of many, he said.
The Government of Guyana initiative is in its fourth year and saw 3,876 persons walking the stage of the National Cultural Centre when a graduation ceremony was held on June 23, 2026. This was one of the largest graduating classes to date.
The programme has made study possible for persons living with disabilities who were unable to access classrooms. Online learning removed the physical barriers and extra financial cost for students in remote and hinterland communities as they were no longer required to leave their homes.
Singh stated that students need only an internet connection and a device. The programme has already helped many persons with disabilities enrol in certificate courses, bachelor’s degrees and are currently pursuing master’s degrees. For many, the scholarship opened a path to study, build skills and move forward.
“This opportunity of higher education… online breaks down all the barriers of inaccessibility and all that is needed is an internet connection and a device,” Singh said, adding that there are still barriers remaining.
Some areas still have poor internet service, and many people lack the devices they need to study. According to Singh, some learning platforms are not fully accessible for visually impaired users who rely on screen-reader software. Websites must follow accessibility guidelines if more people are to use them, he said, noting that otherwise, online education will leave some learners behind.
The scholarship programme is also helping people gain the qualifications they need for work, which will give them some financial independence and improved standard of living.
He highlighted some success stories of some of the people who recently graduated and have gained employment with their GOAL certificates.
As more students complete their studies, more are finding jobs and building financial independence.
Singh urged persons with disabilities to take full advantage of the free education on offer.
He said GCOPD also provides remedial classes for CSEC exams, which can prepare students for the GOAL programme.
“You’ll be positioning yourself to be more competitive in the job market, don’t hesitate. Get qualified,” he said, before urging employers not to discriminate against persons because of a disability.
Singh said his vision is for a more inclusive society in Guyana, where persons with disabilities can live independently and thrive in public life.
He added that much of the progress seen today comes from years of advocacy work.
