Minister of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce, Hon. Oneidge Walrond has affirmed that the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant is no gimmick, but rather represents a genuine interest in the lives and future of our children. Minister Walrond was at the time speaking at the launch of the programme for Central Region 9 at the Arapaima Primary School on Friday (July 23).
“The Because We Care Cash Grant is not just for the government to show it cares; but because you as parents care, the teachers care, and the neighbours care. It is because we care that we are giving this cash to each child so that our children can have a bright future,” Minister Walrond said.
She announced that the cash grant will not be limited to $19,000 but will be increased incrementally over the next five years to $50,000.
“That is the Government telling you that investment in our children is the best thing,” Minister Walrond noted.
She added that It is important to keep the education system vibrant and relevant. “Educating every child in Guyana with a quality education is the way to go and this cash grant does just that,” the minister added.
While pointing out that 9752 students of Region 9 will benefit from a total of $185 million in direct cash transfer to the region, Minister Walrond noted that this direct cash injection will stimulate economic growth and activity in the Region. This cash grant she articulated, is separate from several other grants provided by the PPP/C Government as well as other investments and relief programmes initiated under this administration.
In response to criticisms against the cash grant, Minister Walrond indicated that the government is willing to partner with parents towards the advancement of their children. “We do not believe that you will squander the money. We have the confidence that as parents, you know what is best for your children,” the minister assured.
“Every citizen—every child is a priority,” she stressed.
Also speaking with parents and students at the Arapaima Primary School, was Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, Hon. Kwame McCoy. Minister McCoy said the government will continue to work tirelessly towards improving the living standards and welfare of citizens and will continue to find solutions to the problems parents and teachers face.
He added that the Government will continue to aggressively develop its ICT programmes in keeping with modern trends.
Minister McCoy urged residents to get vaccinated so that their lives can return to normal. “We want you to live and be a part of the exciting days ahead for our country,” he stressed.
He reminded the gathering that the cash grant is a manifestó promise of the PPP/C Government. The administration, he said, felt that the investment in our children is critical. “That is demonstrative of a government that is caring,” he reiterated.
