By Sue-Ann Wayow
BY the end of the week, Government should have a firm decision on whether the Secondary Entrance Assessment (SEA) will be written on June 10.
Leader of Government Business in the Senate Clarence Rambharat said the main priority of the Government was fighting the Covid-19 virus and even if the SEA had to be postponed so that the population’s health would not be at greater risk, the necessary measure will be taken.
He was answering questions asked by Opposition Senator Wade Mark directed to the Minister of Education Nyan Gadsby-Dolly.
Rambharat said, “At this time, the Government’s number one priority is keeping citizens of this country safe. The Government has put strict and robust measures in place to reduce the Covid numbers.
“The success of these measures over the next few days will greatly impact the decision on what would happen in relation to the SEA which is scheduled for June 10.
“The Government recognises that the exam is important, all possible preparations are being made by the Ministry of Education, together with the Ministry of Health and all the other ministries involved for the safe implementation of the SEA.”
He continued, “Having the SEA exam is not more important that the health of the population and Government will be guided by the fact that the health of the population would not be sacrificed for the purpose of having the SEA exam.”
Rambharat said the Ministry of Education met with stakeholders last month and it was agreed upon that the exam should be carried out as far as possible with adherence to safety. He added that there were mixed views from parents, children and teachers concerning still having the exam amidst growing concerns and fears about the virus.
“Changing that date would be the very last resort and the only reason that date would change is in line with the safety of the population and the current pandemic,” he said.
Rambharat said based on numbers of Covid-19 cases this week, a final decision would be made and communicated to the public by the end of this week.
