Yupukari to get new $22.5M Secondary School
November 26, 2024 — The indigenous community of Yupukari is set to see a significant transformation in its educational landscape with the construction of a new secondary school block.
Minister of Education Priya Manickchand officially announced the $22.5 million project during a visit to the proposed site last Saturday.
The facility is expected to directly benefit 60 students from Yupukari and neighboring communities, including Quatata and Kaicumbay.
This development will address a critical issue faced by students who currently endure long commutes or reside in dormitories at St. Ignatius Secondary School to access secondary education.
“This project will bring education closer to home, easing the burden on families and ensuring students can focus on their studies without the strain of extensive travel,” Minister Manickchand said.
At the event, Toshao of Yupukari, Russian Dorrick, expressed deep gratitude on behalf of the village council and residents.
“This is a timely initiative because we currently have over 170 primary school children in our village. With the government focusing on education in Yupukari, I always say that we are moving forward. This project will pave the way for significant progress in our community. We are very grateful to the Ministry of Education and the government for their continued support,” Dorrick remarked.
Minister Manickchand emphasized that the project extends beyond constructing the school, highlighting complementary measures such as teacher training, providing classroom furniture, and ongoing monitoring of teaching standards.
She explained that this school is not just about the building. It’s about creating a sustainable system that ensures students receive a high-quality education. From equipping classrooms to training teachers and evaluating outcomes, the ministry is committed to delivering real results.
The new facility is also expected to ease overcrowding at St. Ignatius Secondary School while reducing the challenges of long-distance travel for students.
Minister Manickchand added that this school is a symbol of opportunity and progress. It will positively impact the entire community, ensuring every child has an equal chance to succeed.
The construction contract has been awarded to contractor Clyve King following a competitive bidding process supervised by the National Tender Board Administration, adhering to the Public Procurement Act. Construction is set to begin immediately, with a completion timeline of one year.
The secondary school block is part of the Ministry of Education’s broader mission to reduce disparities between coastal and hinterland education systems. By investing in infrastructure and ensuring equitable access to quality education, the government seeks to create opportunities for all Guyanese children, regardless of their location.
Parents, teachers, and community members have expressed enthusiasm for the project, seeing it as a vital step in advancing Yupukari’s educational framework.
The Ministry of Education remains unwavering in its efforts to enhance educational access and quality across Guyana. The Yupukari Secondary School Block stands as a testament to the government’s dedication to investing in the country’s future, empowering its youth, and fostering a brighter, more equitable society.
(Ministry of Education)
