The Ministry of Education says it is focused on implementing multi-media technology in schools in an attempt to boost the delivery of education and modernise the sector.

Minister of Education Shaik Baksh made this statement during the launching of an exhibition of learning resources at the National Centre for Education Resource Development. According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release, Baksh also said a multi-media learning centre has been developed at the institution and that he hopes to have it adequately staffed before year end. Some persons have already been identified he said.

GINA said the technology is expected to be introduced in early childhood education as well as at the nursery, primary and secondary levels. Many schools countrywide have established computer laboratories and the minister noted that this is effective in exposing children to a multi-faceted way of learning.

Some nursery schools across the country use televisions to enhance the learning process and plans are in train to equip all nursery schools with the technology. As regards distance education, Baksh said much work is being done and this will influence learning at all levels. “The approach to open distance education and learning is a key area in our Strategic Plan and we are hoping that by the end of the year we will complete the policy on Distance Education,” he said. The first draft has been completed and includes from nursery to tertiary levels. The document will be reviewed by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Guyana who Baksh said is a specialist in distance education.

According to GINA, the exhibition which featured a variety of text books, puzzles, miniature science laboratories, computers and other materials, was part of the activities for Education Month.