Vaz pledges $1m to top GSAT performers in West Portland

Member of Parliament for West Portland Daryl Vaz has pledged $20,000 to the top performing boy and girl in every school in his constituency in the recently conducted Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT).

According to Vaz, each top performer will get a trophy, $10,000.00 in book vouchers and $10,000.00 towards their tuition.

 A total of 50 students from 25 schools will benefit from the award totalling $1 million.  

Vaz has also vowed to continue with the recognition of gifted students through a special mentorship programme which he initiated three years ago.  

“Through this programme, lap tops, textbooks and school supplies are given to some of these students, who though they have distinguished themselves academically their parents are unable to afford their education.

“One of the criteria for continued assistance is that of maintaining  an ‘A’ average,”  said Vaz.

 This financial support is in addition to the MP’s annual back-to-school programme which he has implemented since being elected in 2007.

The government MP noted that more than $60 million have been spent over the 10-year period catering to the less fortunate students who are assisted with textbooks, school supplies, transportation and meals.