Teachers at Karaudarnau Primary School, in the rural region of Rupununi, Guyana, have praised the work of a bilingual education project supported by Jesuit Missions.
The programme supports children from the Indigenous Wapichan nation, enabling them to learn in their local language and celebrate their unique culture.
Here are some of the things staff have said about the initiative:
‘Students grew more confident and felt encouraged to express themselves freely’
Cheryl Stephens, head teacher:
“Before the programme began, there was a strong focus on using only English in the school, primarily because of the exam-centred education system. The bilingual education approach shifted this practice.
“Teachers began using inquiry-based strategies and taught lessons in both Wapichan and English, helping students to participate more actively in their learning. This method supported students’ communication skills and enabled them to talk about their schoolwork with their parents in both languages.
“As a result, students grew more confident and felt encouraged to express themselves freely in Wapichan and English. They also developed a deeper understanding of their history and the cultures of other communities.”
‘It has revitalised and fostered a deeper appreciation for their own cultural identity’
Jeanette Thomas, Grade 1 teacher:
“We have utilised familiar Wapichan stories to introduce concepts that help give them a sense of value and importance. Those who were hesitant to speak in large groups are now confident, expressing themselves in Wapichan or English when needed.
“The intercultural bilingual education program has not only focused on academic learning, but it has revitalised and fostered a deeper appreciation for their own cultural identity. The lessons incorporate their culture, which reinforces their mother language and their heritage.”
‘It encourages every child to learn, regardless of their differences and abilities’
Ann Dharry, Grade 2 teacher:
“Lessons are engaging and interactive, with some parental involvement. Learners have fun discovering the topics they would explore, and their curiosity is evident.
“This programme not only helps children become confident, critical thinkers, and problem solvers, but it also encourages every child to learn, regardless of their differences and abilities. It allows our learners to learn through exploration and investigation.”
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