– Over 4,000 scholarships issued; major support for rice farmers, infrastructure advancements

By: Indrawattie Natram

President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has announced that a medical school and a faculty of engineering will be established in Region Two, as part of the government’s vision to expand access to higher education and professional training across Guyana.

Speaking to a large audience in Anna Regina, the President urged residents to reflect on the transformation taking place around them.

“Look around Region Two—look around Essequibo,” he said. “A new hospital, new roads—development is happening.”

He noted that in just five years, the people of Region Two have regained economic strength, with continued growth and visible infrastructure upgrades.

“Development is not a spur-of-the-moment decision,” he stated. “It requires vision, strong ideas, and actions that ensure success for a lifetime.”

The President revealed that over 4,000 scholarships were awarded to residents of Region Two over the past five years, allowing teachers, nurses, and other professionals to access training and education. He emphasised the importance of voting to continue such progress:

“When you vote, you’re voting for a government that will invest in a medical school—right here,” he said.

Protecting Region Two from Misinformation

President Ali also cautioned residents against false promises and manipulation by political opponents.

“Do not sell your dignity—because it is not for sale,” he warned, adding that the PPP/C can identify “trickery” early.

He pointed to the actions of Winn Azurudin Mohamed, a presidential candidate of the opposition, suggesting that his charitable activities were politically motivated.

“He was only doing charity—but at what cost? He put Essequibo at risk,” Ali said, urging residents to protect the region and its future.

“Our young people’s future must not be gambled away,” he said firmly.

Turning to agriculture, President Ali underscored his administration’s support for rice farmers, contrasting it with the neglect under the previous government.

“Rice farmers were told rice is a private business and left to struggle,” he said. “But the PPP/C provided a $300 subsidy per bag of paddy and launched a crop insurance plan to protect your investment.”

He said more help is on the way, including a price stabilisation fund and a fertiliser support program to be co-funded with farmers.

“The price stabilisation will ensure farmers are paid on time at the end of the crop,” he explained.

Further investment will be made in equipment, machinery, and land expansion, signalling a comprehensive plan to modernise the rice industry.

“Rice farmers, tell me honestly, with conscience—who is it you can trust?” President Ali asked. “We will ensure that rice is successful and profitable.”

In closing, the President urged Essequibians to safeguard the development gains made and to look ahead with confidence.

“The opposition’s intention is to get rid of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic,” he said. “We must not let that happen.”

He called on voters to make wise decisions at the polls:

“On September 1, vote for the PPP/C—the party that delivers and invests in your future.”