–VP Jagdeo affirms; defends gradual approach to free university education
–exposes APNU’s broken promises

IN response to Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton’s accusations of political gimmickry, Vice-President, Bharrat Jagdeo reaffirmed the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government’s commitment to gradually achieving free university education by 2025.

During a press conference at the Office of the President on Thursday, Dr. Jagdeo addressed accusations that the move was timed for electoral gain.
Jagdeo explained that the promise predates the 2020 elections, emphasising the government’s dedication to fulfilling its commitments.

Vice-President Jagdeo began by addressing Norton’s assertion that the promise of free university education was a “political gimmick”, which he firmly rejected, declaring, “Our promises are sacred to us. We work every day to fulfil them.”
He reminded the public that the pledge to make university education free was not a recent campaign tactic, but a commitment made prior to the 2020 elections.

The Vice-President acknowledged the phased approach to realising this promise, explaining: “We promised within five years to make university education free. We could have said the first year we do that. We met the other promises, we were time-bombed.”

Dr. Jagdeo clarified that the government was diligently working towards this goal, starting with addressing the outstanding loans of students already enrolled in the University of Guyana (UG).

APNU’S BROKEN PROMISES
Dr. Jagdeo, however, seized the opportunity to expose another failed promise of the opposition during its time in office (2015-2020), especially regarding promises related to university education.

He reminded the public that the APNU+AFC coalition, despite fervent campaign pledges, failed to eliminate tuition fees during their term.
“It’s the same party that increased the fees at the University of Guyana. People forget that.

They increased the fees at the University of Guyana. He talks about (late People’s National Congress Leader Forbes) Burnham and free education ….But you were in government just a few years ago, and you increased the fees there,” the Vice-President pointed out.

This stark comparison highlighted the PPP/C’s commitment to fulfilling promises unlike the opposition.
Vice-President Jagdeo provided insights into the government’s rationale for adopting a phased approach to free university education.

He pointed out the need to address students with existing loans first, acknowledging the financial constraints of delivering immediate free education.
“But at least we can get some productive use,” he added, alluding to potential mechanisms that could alleviate the financial burden on students.

Jagdeo detailed the considerations behind potential write-offs, stating: “We are trying to ensure that the write-offs for the debts are done in a manner that is clear, consistent, the rules are established, and evenly applied to everyone.”
This approach seeks to avoid inconsistencies and favouritism, ensuring fairness in the implementation of free education initiatives.

Vice-President Jagdeo reinforced the PPP/C’s unwavering dedication to fulfilling promises made to the electorate.
As such, he urged the public not to dismiss the government’s efforts as “political gimmickry”, highlighting the party’s sincerity and long-term commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for all Guyanese.

While underscoring the commitment to free university education, Vice-President Jagdeo shed light on another educational initiative – the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) programme.

President, Dr Irfaan Ali, during a year-end interview, highlighted that around 20,000 Guyanese are currently pursuing higher education through GOAL, ranging from certificate-level programmes to doctorate programmes.

This initiative further reflects the PPP/C government’s dedication to providing diverse educational opportunities.
The APNU+AFC whilst in government between 2015 and 2020 not only increased UG tuition fees but also introduced VAT on Education, VAT on textbooks and other educational materials.
They also introduced VAT on computers and on internet data, including Wi-Fi, which are critical aspects of students’ lives at a university.