GOVERNMENT continues to place major focus on development of the education sector, particularly with respect to infrastructural development which has significantly increased over the years.

This paved the way for the implementation of programmes aimed at modernizing educational facilities and improving the quality of education.

At Bartica, Region Seven major works are ongoing at the Bartica Secondary School at a cost $22M, to replace the boys’ dormitory which was gutted by fire in December 2007.

Minister within the Ministry of Education, Dr Desrey Fox during her visit to the Region from March 14 to 15 visited the school and inspected the progress of the construction of the new dorm.

Minister Fox expressed satisfaction with the progress made but indicated the urgency of its completion.

It is expected that the dormitory would be able to house the male students before the end of the year and students would occupy a more spacious and comfortable facility. At present they are located at a nearby building.

Government took immediate action in providing supplies for 26 male students of Bartica Secondary School after their dormitory caught afire.

The dormitory provides accommodation for children who live in remote areas such as Kamarang, Upper Mazaruni, Paruima, Waramadong and Jawalla and even other Regions.

The education sector was allocated $15.6B, of the national budget for 2007 and in 2008, $19B will be spent towards enhancing the standard of education.

Minister Fox, while at the Bartica School, highlighted the importance of attaining a sound education during her discussions with the student of the school.

She urged them to make the best of the opportunity that Government is providing by utilizing the scholarships offered to them.

Students were advised that a team from the Ministry of Education would be visiting the region to conduct the psycho-social programme which deals with addressing issues that might be bothering children in the aftermath of the massacre which occurred in Bartica on February 17. (GINA)