Dear Editor,
The ‘One laptop per family’ giveaway programme is not only ill-conceived but is also an irresponsible project that will not achieve much. In addition to the expenses poor parents will have to pay monthly for internet services, they will have to purchase a printer and devices to offset power surges from damaging the laptop, etc. Can poor families who are struggling to put food on the table afford these extra costs? I doubt it. To make a long story short, President Jagdeo and his advisers should stop walking on their heads and place the computers in schools, libraries, and community centres.
In this way, everyone will benefit and not just the 90,000 poor families. The big question is who will get these laptops, and who will verify the amount given? My guess is no one. The bigger question is this: Why should the taxpayers in Guyana be burdened to pay for maids, gardeners, chauffeurs, police security, water, electricity, gas, taxes, and unlimited travelling expenses for Mr Jagdeo after he leaves office? This is absurd.
Yours faithfully,
Asquith Rose
