The recent launch of the George Tancredo Nappi Secondary School in Nappi, Region Nine, marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of education in Guyana’s hinterland. Spearheaded by the Honourable Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, this $215,802,200 project represents more than just infrastructure—it embodies a commitment to transformation, equity, and opportunity.
The school will serve 300 students from the villages of Nappi, Hiawa, and Parishara, bringing secondary education closer to home. For the first time, children in these communities will no longer have to journey to St. Ignatius to pursue their studies. This development is a milestone for the region, breaking down barriers that have long hindered access to education in remote areas.
Named in honor of the late toshao George Tancredo, the school is a tribute to his unwavering dedication to his community. Tancredo’s vision of a secondary school in Nappi was a dream built on the hope of empowering future generations. His efforts and legacy now live on in a tangible way, providing a foundation for countless young lives to be enriched and transformed.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Manickchand captured the essence of the moment, stating, “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.” Her words resonated with the community, affirming the government’s commitment to listening to the people and acting on their aspirations.
The project’s impact extends beyond education. With labor being sourced exclusively from the community, the construction is generating employment and economic activity for local families. This approach not only accelerates the project but also ensures that the benefits are felt immediately, weaving the school into the fabric of the community even before its doors open.
The Ministry of Education’s broader goal of Universal Secondary Education in Guyana is clearly in motion. In Region Nine alone, six additional secondary schools are under construction, underscoring the government’s determination to bridge the gap between urban and rural access to quality education.
Minister Manickchand’s address to the people of Nappi echoed a message of empowerment and potential. “Your village has the capacity to produce the president of this country, to produce doctors, lawyers, farmers, accountants—anything your children want to be,” she stated. Her remarks underscored the government’s dedication to providing not just facilities, but a nurturing environment where dreams can take flight.
The George Tancredo Nappi Secondary School will stand as a beacon of progress and possibility for the people of Nappi, Hiawa, and Parishara. It reflects the strength of a community that dared to dream and a nation that is determined to uplift its most remote regions.
Through projects like these, Guyana is building a future where every child, regardless of geography, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
