PARAMARIBO - The Progressive Reform Party (VHP) recently promised to reform the education se tor in the hinterland. If the VHP wins the upcoming elections and returns to the center of power,it will make sure that the pupils in the hinterland receive lessons and tests in their mother language.
Research shows that the pupils in the hinterland can't keep up because of the language barrier that is erected by Dutch. This language barrier has a negative impact on their performance and test results. “Besides Dutch you will also receive education in the language that is spoken in your village,” said Chandrikapersad Santokhi chairman of the VHP. This linguistic approach is not only aimed at improving the performance of each pupil but it is also aimed at boosting the self confidence and cultural identity of pupils who live in remote regions of Suriname. “Language must never be a barrier. Give them a chance,” said Santokhi who is currently the head of state. Officials aim at introducing a multi linguistic education system in the hinterland. The children from the hinterland will also receive distance education so that they do not have to travel all the way to the coastal area to continue their education upon completing the primary school. Santokhi also announced the creation of a study fund of $25 million to provide financial aid to pupils and students from poor families. “Not a single pupil may drop out of school because he or she can't buy bread or pay the enrollment fee,” said Santokhi.
