The Ministry of Education on Monday launched an upgraded version of its EDPAL+ application, offering free educational audio content with offline downloads and improved performance on weak internet connections.
The ministry’s Distance Education Unit also launched a Media Mentorship Programme, with practical training sessions beginning today at its Battery Road, Kingston office and studio.
According to a ministry release, EDPAL+ provides advert-free access to lessons, courses, audiobooks and stories. Its offline features and adjustments for weak connections are intended to support learners in coastal, rural and hinterland communities.
The updated application includes a redesigned home screen, simplified searches and a “Continue Learning” shortcut. It also incorporates an EdYou FM broadcast feed and a personalised “For You” section which uses listening habits to recommend relevant curriculum content.
Chief Planning Officer Mischka White-Griffith, speaking on behalf of Education Minister Sonia Parag, who was travelling, said digital tools were central to improving access to education.
“How far should a child go to access education? My answer is it should be a double click away,” White-Griffith said.
“EDPAL+ makes learning available 24/7, 365 days a year. Parents can now trust their children on a device because there is a platform that is safe and directly related to what they are learning at school.”
The accompanying mentorship programme will provide selected participants with hands-on instruction from Distance Education Unit professionals in photography, videography, pre-production, video editing, audio production and content development.
Sessions will run from October 13 to October 23. The release did not state how many persons were selected or outline the selection process.
Distance Education Unit Director Phillip Williams said the initiatives reflected the unit’s commitment to widening access.
“We operate on the philosophy that your physical address should not determine your access to educational resources,” Williams stated.
“EDPAL+ is a cornerstone of the Ministry of Education’s digital transformation in Guyana, representing our commitment to making learning more accessible and responsive to the public.”
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