BUDGET 2026: Cash grants, digital learning, scholarships & free UG part of $183.6B education allocation

Guyana is advancing key education initiatives in 2026, with a total of $183.6 billion earmarked for schools, teacher training, cash grants, and digital learning to ensure all citizens have access to quality education and opportunities to upskill.

Key projects and initiatives for 2026 include:

• School infrastructure: Completion of more than 40 schools, including Falls Top and Kanapang nursery schools, Cracrana and Diamond No. 2 primary schools, and Karaudarnau and Kwebanna secondary schools. Construction of student dormitories at Jawalla, North West, Port Kaituma, Santa Rosa, and Waramadong will also continue. Total allocation: $24.3 billion.
• Teacher training and classroom resources: Expanding the number of trained teachers, with CPCE targeting specialist teachers in mathematics, science, and music. Textbooks and learning materials will be replenished with $2.3 billion, while school grants for classroom resources will continue at $3.1 billion.
• Digital learning: The Guyana Digital School will expand to all secondary grades, building on over 22,000 students registered in 2025. Investments include $176.1 million to continue operations, alongside the Learning Channel project distributing TVs, solar panels, and satellite dishes to enhance access to educational content.
• Cash grants and examination support: The $50,000 per child “Because We Care” grant and $5,000 uniform grant will continue to benefit all public and private school children, with $11.7 billion Government will also cover the cost of up to eight CSEC and CAPE subjects for students.
• Tertiary education and scholarships: University of Guyana operations, expanded medicine and engineering programmes in Regions 2, 3, and 6, and scholarships through the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) are supported with a total of $20.3 billion, including $14.5 billion for UG and $5.8 billion for scholarships.
• Technical and vocational training (TVET): Expansion of TVET facilities, including the Guyana Technical Training College in Port Mourant and a new centre at Mahdia, with $2.5 billion budgeted to continue training over 2,000 persons in practical skills.

Dr. Singh highlighted that these investments aim to modernise Guyana’s education system, improve access and quality, and prepare students and workers for a rapidly evolving economy while providing flexible learning options through technology.