Primary Schools Project Gets $46.9 Million

A sum of $46.9 million has been allocated to the New Horizons for Primary Schools Project, as outlined in the 2004/05 Estimates of Expenditure, now before the House.
The funds will be used to increase literacy and numeracy in targeted schools, by the provision of quality education. It also gives support to low performing schools, and focuses on poverty alleviation and creating a culture of success.
Targets for the new financial year include the continued development and implementation of individualized Mathematics and Reading programmes; the maintenance and support of the Education Technology Resource Centre located at the College of Agriculture, Science and Education (CASE); and the continued intervention in Literacy and Mathematics, utilizing Resource Specialists in 72 primary schools.
Achievements realized under this project up to December 2003 include: the procurement of 155 computers, printers and software for schools, Regional Offices and the Project Implementation Unit; the training of 432 parents in Parenting Education; and the implementation of Breakfast Programmes in 14 schools.
The project, which is expected to be completed by September 2004, is funded by the Government and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).