Church supports intercultural bilingual programme

GUYANA  

Catholic Media Guyana (CMG) recently visited the Quality Bilingual Education Programme (QBEP) in the Deep South Rupununi, Region 9, Essequibo, Guyana—an innovative collaboration between the Jesuits, the Ministry of Education, and four Wapichan communities: Aishalton, Sawariwau, Karaudarnau, and Maruranau.

The QBEP integrates Wapichan culture, values, and language with the national curriculum, helping children in Grades 1 and 2 strengthen learning while appreciating their heritage.

At Karaudarnau Primary School, CMG met Head Teacher Cheryl Stephens, teachers, and students whose joy in learning through their mother tongue was evident. Fr Joel Thompson SJ, chair of the QBEP Team, noted that this model of education is holistic, contextual, and responsive to the needs of Wapichan children.

By weaving songs, stories and traditions into classroom learning, the programme fosters cultural pride, builds confidence, and encourages active involvement by parents and grandparents.

Launched in 2018, the QBEP continues to thrive with the support of the Jesuits, the Ministry of Education, teachers, communities, and students. Recognised as a model of intercultural bilingual education in Guyana, it also aligns with the UN’s International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022-2032). Plans are underway to expand into additional primary grades, with ongoing evaluation ensuring impact and sustainability.