“The Home Stretch”: Schools Reopen for Final Term as CSEC Practicals Begin Nationwide
By: Marvin Cato | HGP Nightly News|
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA — The corridors of schools across the ten administrative regions buzzed with renewed energy on Monday, April 13, 2026, as the final term of the academic year officially commenced. For thousands of students, the return to the classroom marks the beginning of a high-stakes “home stretch,” with the focus shifting almost entirely to final preparations for the National Grade 6 Assessment (NGSA) and the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations.
Education Minister Sonia Parag spent the morning welcoming learners, teachers, and parents back from the Easter vacation, reminding them that the decisions and dedication shown over the next few weeks will shape the future of many young Guyanese.
Exam Countdown: CSEC and NGSA Timelines
The term began not just with lessons, but with live assessments. The Ministry of Education confirmed that CSEC practical examinations officially started today, marking the first step in the secondary exit process.
- CSEC/CAPE: While practicals are underway, the theoretical papers are scheduled to run from May 4th to June 9th.
- NGSA: For the nation’s primary school seniors, the wait is almost over. The Grade 6 Assessment will be held on April 29th and 30th.
- Exit Points: Minister Parag highlighted that this term is pivotal for those transitioning from Nursery to Primary, Primary to Secondary, and those exiting the system to enter the workforce or tertiary education.
Boosting Proficiency: “Maths Tents” and Digital Schools
To combat historical challenges in core subject performance, the Ministry has deployed an aggressive support framework for this term:
- Maths Tents: Specialized, intensive coaching sessions being held in various districts to improve pass rates in Mathematics.
- The Digital School: Expanded online resources and “after-school” virtual lessons designed to provide equitable access to high-quality tutoring, regardless of geographic location.
- Hinterland Expansion: The Minister revealed that several new schools are slated for commissioning in hinterland communities during this term, further reducing the travel burden on indigenous students.
Minister Parag: A Call for Consistency
Addressing the students, Minister Parag emphasized that the success of the term relies heavily on the “triangle of education”—the partnership between teachers, students, and parents.
“I want to wish you all the best for the term. To the grade 6 and grade 11 students, focus on consistency and dedication. We have put the resources in place, from the digital school to after-school lessons; now, we need your attendance and your best effort.” — Minister Sonia Parag
A Reward for Hard Work
As the academic year 2025/2026 draws to a close, the Ministry of Education is making its final push to ensure no student is left behind. With new facilities ready for commissioning and a suite of digital tools at their disposal, the message to the “Class of 2026” is clear: the support is there, the path is paved, and the finish line is in sight.
