Construction of $215M George Tancredo Nappi Secondary Commences
November 25, 2024 – The transformative journey toward universal secondary education in Guyana took a significant step forward as construction commenced on the $215,802,200 George Tancredo Nappi Secondary School in Nappi, Region Nine.
The new institution, which will cater to 300 students from Nappi, Hiawa, and Parishara villages, will provide Grades 7 to 11 education, eliminating the need for children to travel to St. Ignatius Secondary.
Named in honor of the late toshao George Tancredo, the project reflects his enduring dream of bringing quality secondary education to his community. Tancredo was a tireless advocate for educational development in Nappi, and this school is a testament to his vision.
At the launch ceremony, Minister of Education Priya Manickchand highlighted the school’s profound significance.
“When you can have a school in this village where your children can be educated safely and comfortably, today the Tancredo dream is coming true,” said Minister Manickchand. “We know the cries and the pleas of George Tancredo will not go in vain, because that’s how we lead. We hear you, we listen to you, and we act on what you need.”
Construction Details
The project, awarded to contractor Beerdat Harrinandan through the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), is expected to be completed within nine months. Minister Manickchand urged the contractor to deliver high-quality work on time and within budget.
“For you, this is a project, but for us, it’s about changing lives for the children of Nappi, Hiawa, and Parishara,” she emphasized.
To ensure community involvement, the labor force for the project is being sourced exclusively from Nappi, providing employment opportunities and fostering local economic growth.
Government Commitment to Hinterland Education
Addressing villagers, teachers, parents, and students, Minister Manickchand reaffirmed the government’s dedication to enhancing educational resources in hinterland regions. She underscored the transformative potential of education in unlocking limitless opportunities for the youth of Nappi and surrounding villages.
“Your village has the capacity to produce the president of this country, doctors, lawyers, farmers, accountants—anything your children want to be. But this can only be achieved if you have the resources: a school to sit in, trained teachers, and the full support of parents and the government.”
The George Tancredo Nappi Secondary School is part of a broader initiative by the Ministry of Education to achieve universal secondary education in Guyana. Region Nine is witnessing the construction of six additional secondary schools in Karasabai, Maruranau, Tabatinga, Massara, Yupukari, and Katoka.
These investments reflect the government’s commitment to addressing disparities in access to quality education, particularly in hinterland regions. By creating opportunities for children in remote areas, the government aims to foster a more equitable and empowered society.
The George Tancredo Nappi Secondary School stands as both a tribute to a visionary leader and a beacon of opportunity, ensuring that future generations have the resources and support to thrive.
(Ministry of Education)
