The Ministry of Education is strengthening digital learning opportunities with the launch of the EDPal Plus Learning App and a new Media Mentorship Programme, initiatives designed to improve access to educational resources and develop creative skills among students across Guyana and the wider Caribbean.
The Distance Education Unit (DEU) introduced the upgraded application as the next phase of its digital education initiative, following the launch of the original EDPal App in September 2023. The latest version incorporates improvements aimed at making the platform easier to use while providing users with greater access to educational content.
Speaking at the launch ceremony at the Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel, EDYOU FM Head Phillip Williams emphasised the importance of ensuring that geographical location does not prevent people from accessing learning opportunities.
Williams explained that feedback received following the original application’s launch helped guide the improvements introduced in EDPal Plus. One of the key features is the ability for users to access all seven channels directly through the app, expanding the availability of educational and ministry-related information on mobile devices.
He described EDPal as an important component of the Ministry of Education’s digital transformation, expressing confidence that the platform would continue to develop and provide lasting benefits to learners and educators.
Alongside the application, the DEU has introduced a two-week Media Mentorship Programme to help secondary school students develop practical skills in media production and creative communication.
The programme brings together students from schools across Guyana for training in photography, videography, pre-production, video editing and audio production. Members of the DEU team will supervise the sessions, combining theoretical instruction with practical experience under the guidance of media professionals.
Production Manager Jonathan Jacobus said the initiative was developed to give young people an opportunity to build on their natural abilities while learning from experienced creatives.
Students participating in the programme represent New Campbellville, Charity, St Ignatius, Brickdam, Bladen Hall, JC Chandisingh, Fort Wellington and West Demerara secondary schools.
Through the mentorship initiative, participants will gain exposure to different stages of media production, helping them develop technical knowledge and creative capabilities that could support future academic and professional opportunities.
The launch of EDPal Plus and the Media Mentorship Programme highlights the Ministry of Education’s efforts to combine digital technology with practical skills development. While the application aims to make educational resources more accessible, the mentorship programme focuses on preparing students to engage with modern media and production tools.
Together, the initiatives represent a broader approach to education that seeks to expand access to learning, encourage innovation and equip young people with skills relevant to an increasingly technology-driven world.