School uniform voucher distribution begins

Education Minister Shaik Baksh is urging parents to take advantage of the school uniform voucher distribution programme, which is intended to boost student attendance.

The $300M programme, which covers nursery, primary and secondary school learners countrywide, started on Wednesday, the ministry said in a press release.

During the distribution exercise at the Graham’s Hall and West Ruimveldt primary schools, the minister explained that relatives, armed with a valid identification card, can also uplift the vouchers in the absence of a parent. The vouchers are redeemable at designated stores in the regions the children reside.

Meanwhile, the distribution exercise started Thursday in St Ignatius, Region Nine, a report from the Government Information Agency (GINA) said. Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai presented raw materials to Toshao of Parikwarinau John Daniels and more materials will be distributed to communities in regions One, Seven, Eight and Ten. Contracts for sewing the uniforms will soon be awarded to residents of the said villages to make the uniforms.