16 Peace Corps Volunteers to Aid Education Ministry

Sixteen Peace Corps Volunteers to Support Ministry of Education as Training Concludes

The United States Peace Corps celebrated the conclusion of ten weeks of rigorous training today with a swearing-in ceremony for eighteen new volunteers at the Umana Yana in Kingston, Georgetown.

Of the eighteen newly sworn-in Peace Corps Volunteers (PCVs), sixteen will be dedicated to the Education sector, while the remaining two will lend their expertise to the health sector.

Speaking on the Honourable Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand’s behalf, Deputy Chief Education Officer – Administration, Tiffany Harvey emphasized the Ministry’s eagerness to collaborate with the PCVs, as they will help in pushing and achieving the Ministry’s mission and goals in the Nursery, Primary and Secondary school sectors.

“We are happy for this kind of collaboration. It’s a great enthusiasm, lots of passion, lots of expectations and anticipation that I open our arms of welcome to this batch, and I am confidant that together, your vision will be achieved, investing in Guyana’s communities through service, relationships and partnerships for a sustainable future. We are confident that together, your vision will be realized.” She said.

Peace Corps Guyana Country Director Deborah Conner outlined the roles of the new volunteers, emphasizing their significant contributions to local communities. "Sixteen of the volunteers will focus on education, with a subgroup specializing in environmental science. Specifically, seven Education Volunteers will be stationed at secondary schools, where they will co-teach, enhance school libraries, engage with parents, and provide special tutoring to students. These efforts are aligned with the Ministry of Education’s mission to improve literacy and educational outcomes," Conner explained. "In addition, nine Environmental Volunteers will implement eco-friendly projects and teach science, fostering environmental stewardship among students."

The new group of volunteers will augment the existing cohort of 36 Peace Corps Volunteers who are already serving across 9 of Guyana’s 10 administrative regions. Their collective efforts are expected to significantly impact education and health services throughout the country, over the next two years of their tenure.