Minister of Public Infrastructure, Juan Edghill, on Monday, urged Lindeners to make full use of the opportunities provided by the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) initiative, as the programme was officially launched in Region 10 (Upper Demerara- Berbice) on Monday.
Addressing Lindeners at the Linden Concert Hall and School (LICHAS), the Minister noted that he was happy that the region was granted access to the programme, which will see 20,000 Guyanese being given the opportunity to pursue a free certificate, diploma and other educational courses online.
“The People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government believes in equal opportunity and equal access. Hence, today we are in Region 10 to ensure you are not left behind but you have the opportunity to uplift yourself through education,” the Minister said.
He noted that through the government scholarship programme, Guyanese from all walks of life can decide to walk through the door of educational upliftment and advancement, where it would not cost anything but their commitment and dedication to study.
“The Government of Guyana will fund every dollar for your scholarship,” the Minister said.
According to the Minister, approximately 4,500 scholarships will be granted countrywide this year.
“We said we would do 20,000 online scholarships and here we are today- promise being fulfilled,” Edghill told Lindeners.
He noted too that the government is committed to ensuring data and bandwidth services are affordable and available in all communities across Guyana, including riverain areas.
“We are committed towards a layout, granting licence and ensuring that data and bandwidth is available,” the Minister said as he noted that persons must be able to study and have access to the internet.
“So don’t be afraid to apply. Improvements are coming in the Information Communication Technology sector,” he assured.
Minister Edghill further assured that the government is working to stable, affordable, reliable and accessible Internet capacity in areas such as Region 10 to make online learning easier.
The initiative is expected to be rolled out in areas such as Kwakwani and other parts of Sub- District 2 later this week.
The Minister also encouraged interested persons to make use of the online portal at guyanagoal.org which he noted is now open for applications. (Modified press release from Ministry of Public Infrastructure)
