Residents of Bethany on the Supenaam Riverbank, Region Two, are celebrating a major milestone in education with the construction of the village’s first nursery school valued at $26.5 million.
The new facility is funded by the government and expected to significantly improve early childhood education in the riverain community by providing a dedicated learning space for nursery pupils.
During an interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Monday, Toshao of Bethany, who is the Director General of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, Sonia Latchman, described the project as a significant achievement for the village.
Before the construction of the new building, nursery classes were held at Bethany Primary School, resulting in overcrowding and limited space for students.
“This project means a great deal to the people of Bethany because we have never had a nursery school in the village before. It shows that the government is committed to developing education not only along the coastland, but also in riverain and hinterland communities,” Toshao Latchman said.
The member of parliament explained that the new school will now provide nursery children with their own classrooms, recreational space and a more comfortable learning environment.
The school currently accommodates approximately 20 pupils and is already being used, although it has not yet been officially commissioned.
Latchman explained that some minor interior work is still ongoing, but will not interrupt learning or affect those occupying the facility.
The toshao also praised the government for funding the project and working closely with the Village Council and regional officials throughout the planning process.
According to Latchman, consultations were held with the village council, head teacher and regional engineers before the decision was made to construct the nursery school adjacent to the primary school.
The initiative forms part of the government’s continued efforts to strengthen access to quality education across Guyana’s hinterland and riverain communities, in keeping with its national development agenda.
