Minister of Education, Sonia Parag, visited the New Diamond-Grove Primary School on Wednesday morning sharing words of encouragement with pupils sitting the first day of the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA)
GUYANA’S education transformation agenda is set to expand further in 2027 with the introduction of a national numeracy assessment aimed at strengthening Mathematics performance from the primary level, Education Minister Sonia Parag has announced.
The disclosure was made on Wednesday during a visit to Diamond/Grove Primary School, where the Minister engaged pupils sitting the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) and offered encouragement as the nationwide examination got underway. A total of 15,935 pupils are writing this year’s NGSA, which runs from April 29 to 30.
Parag said the planned numeracy assessment forms part of a broader education reform strategy already in motion, noting that similar literacy assessments have been introduced for Grades Two and Four to strengthen foundational skills.
“We have recognised that Mathematics is one of those areas, not only at the secondary level, but at the primary level, that we need to strengthen,” the Minister said, adding that the new assessment will be implemented in 2027.
The Education Minister also pointed to ongoing reforms at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), where curriculum changes are being advanced to better prepare teachers entering the education system.
She said the combined initiatives are designed to strengthen human capital development and ensure that learners are adequately prepared to contribute to Guyana’s long-term national development.
During her school visit, Parag highlighted the extensive preparatory support provided to NGSA candidates nationwide, including virtual classes, in-person instruction, and specially organised “exam preparation tents” established across several communities.
According to the Minister, these initiatives brought together learners from different schools for focused instruction in key subject areas delivered by specialist teachers.
“There was a Maths tent set up specifically for Grade Six students across the country… it allowed students to strengthen their knowledge in specific areas and prepare better for these exams,” she explained.
Parag further noted that the Ministry has provided textbooks, past examination papers, and other learning materials to support pupils, while urging teachers, pupils, and parents to make full use of the resources available.
“I have no doubt that our Grade Six pupils will perform well at NGSA, given the interventions, the investment, and the resources that we have provided,” she said.
While expressing confidence in the cohort’s performance, the Minister acknowledged the anxiety that often accompanies major examinations and appealed for calm and support from parents during the exam period.
“I know there is a level of nervousness and panic… but I want parents to know we are working to ensure our children have the best resources to perform well,” she stated.
She also urged parents to provide emotional support and avoid placing undue pressure on children.
“Give your children space. They are also processing what they did during the day and preparing for the next exam,” Parag advised.
Reaffirming the government’s broader education agenda, the Minister said reforms continue to focus on improving curriculum delivery, enhancing teacher training, and supporting the holistic development of learners beyond academics.
“As we look ahead, I have no doubt that our students will perform well. We are seeing better results and we will continue building on that progress,” she said.
The NGSA remains a critical national examination, determining placement into secondary schools across Guyana as part of the country’s formal education progression system.
