Today, Minister of Education Priya Manickchand, along with various officials, inaugurated the construction of a new Cotton Field Secondary School in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam). This initiative represents the second advanced educational institution in the region to be demolished and rebuilt in accordance with modern educational standards. The project has been contracted to Builders Hardware for a total of $1.7 billion, with an expected completion timeline of 18 months.
The new school is anticipated to offer a cutting-edge learning environment, in line with the government’s overarching goal of enhancing educational delivery nationwide. During the sod-turning event, Minister Manickchand highlighted the importance of such investments, asserting that a high-quality education starts with solid infrastructure. She urged local residents, including educators and council members, to keep a close watch on the construction to ensure it meets efficiency and high-quality standards. Additionally, she discussed the importance of timely progress with the contractor, noting that the demolition of the current building would commence immediately.
This initiative follows the recent reconstruction of Abram Zuil Secondary School as part of the government’s strategic plan to modernize educational facilities in Region Two. Alongside these major projects, all primary and nursery schools in the area have received upgrades, with over $100 million allocated for improvements to dormitory facilities.
Minister Manickchand pointed out that investing in education encompasses more than just infrastructure. She emphasized the ministry’s ongoing initiatives in teacher training, textbook distribution, and student nutrition. Notably, she mentioned the expansion of the breakfast program, which not only aids students but also creates job opportunities within the community.
“While we are constructing schools, we are also enhancing teacher training. Last year, we graduated nearly 2,000 teachers, a significant increase from the 450 to 535 teachers we were graduating annually before,” she remarked, highlighting the increase in qualified educators in the system.
The decision to reconstruct the school on its current site came after thorough consultations with community members and stakeholders. To minimize disruption, arrangements have been made for students to attend nearby schools and colleges until the new facility is completed.
