…Parag urges parents to follow school schedules

The distribution of the Government of Guyana’s 2026 ‘Because We Care’ cash grant kicks off across the country today, with Education Minister Sonia Parag urging parents and guardians to attend their children’s schools according to the published schedules to ensure a smooth collection process. In a social media message on Sunday, a day ahead of the nationwide rollout, Parag reminded parents that every child enrolled in the public and private school systems is eligible to receive $85,000 this year. The package comprises a $60,000 ‘Because We Care’ cash grant, a $5,000 uniform grant, and a $20,000 transportation grant is being introduced for the first time. The Minister encouraged parents to familiarise themselves with the distribution timetable for their children’s schools and to be present on the assigned day, noting that payments will continue throughout the week. “So, parents, I hope you know the schedule for your child’s school and that you will be present there, whether it’s tomorrow or the other days, which will be Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and ensure that you show up there,” Parag said.

She said the financial assistance is intended to ease the burden on families as they prepare children for the new academic year in September. “I know that this is going to be of great benefit to you because you want your child or children to be in a position to attend school. In September, this is going to assist them with whatever they need to get back to school, to be properly prepared for school,” the Minister stated. Parag also assured parents that extensive preparations have already been completed to facilitate the nationwide exercise. According to her, she will personally visit several schools during the distribution period, while other Government Ministers will also be on the ground supporting the exercise.