With the staunch belief that education is essential for the future of communities and the country, on Wednesday, July 8th, the People’s United Party (PUP) Standard Bearer for Belize Rural South, Andre Perez was in Caye Caulker handing out tuition assistance to 56 primary school students. Among the recipients, ten top students with an average of 95% and above were granted full scholarships, while the remaining receive half of the total cost of their school’s fees.
Perez says he was concerned that families affected economically by the COVID-19 pandemic would be unable to pay their children’s school fees. The PUP Standard Bearer counted with a Financial Aid Committee, which reviewed the many applications submitted. The top ten were awarded full scholarships and others with half of their tuition. They encourage all students to study hard and possibly qualify for next year’s assistance as well.
Perez said that there is concern over the future of education in the country. “It is in the students that we must invest, and I stand committed. This is a sign and a symbol that there is more to do. I remain committed,” said Perez. He added that if his party leads the next government, education must be at the forefront.
This is the second time, Perez’ School Assistance Program has distributed tuition assistance to students. On June 30th, primary school students on Ambergris Caye were awarded during a short ceremony. The funding to assist students in Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye comes from an $18,000 package that came to fruition with the collaboration of generous friends and donors. Perez wishes all students the very best in the upcoming school year, set for August 10, 2020.
