Sod turned for Guyana’s first School for the Deaf

In its unwavering commitment to inclusive education and the development of all learners, the Ministry of Education today took a historic step in Guyana’s educational landscape as sod was turned to commence construction of the country’s first dedicated school for the deaf.

Education Minister, Priya Manickchand, was joined by the Assistant Chief Education Officer responsible for Special Education Needs and Development (SEND) Dr Keon Cheung and Senior Education Officer – SEND, Nikoya Alleyne, for the simple ceremony.

This landmark project, valued at G$194,472,570, will be executed by Superior Supplies
and General Construction and is scheduled to be completed within nine months.

Located in Cummings Lodge, the state-of-the-art facility will cater to 30 learners who
are deaf, providing a nurturing environment that celebrates and supports deaf culture.

The contract for the construction of the building was awarded after it went through the
procurement process by way of public tender. Beyond being a school, the facility will
serve as a resource hub for deaf youth, fostering community connections and enabling
personal growth.

In brief remarks, the Education Minister stated “this school is a testament to our
government’s dedication to inclusivity and equal opportunities for all learners.”

Minister Manickchand commended the work the Deaf Association of Guyana has been doing over the years and noted that the Government is working towards establishing more inclusive spaces across the country.

Ms Sabine McIntosh, who is Director of the Deaf Association of Guyana was presented
during the momentous occasion. Ms McIntosh was invited by Minister Manickchand
who recognized the significant contributions she made in the sector for more than a
decade.

Meanwhile, Dr Cheung noted that the initiative underscores the Ministry’s holistic
approach to education, recognizing the importance of specialized support for learners
with special education needs and disabilities (SEND). He highlighted that As part of
this effort, the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) has incorporated deaf education
into its curriculum.

Deaf youth enrolled in the SEND program are now teacher candidates, with additional programs being offered by CPCE’s Disability Studies Department to train educators interested in teaching learners who are deaf.