Brain drain will continue with the imposed VAT on education

May 04, 2017 Letters

Dear Editor,
In light of the recent 14 percent VAT that was imposed on private education and the continued effort of several public spirited citizens to have this decision revised/revoked, as a student of a private institution, I find it necessary to join in this fight.
As a young, working Guyanese, we are encouraged to create employment opportunities for ourselves by the Head of State, which personally is my main motive for pursuing higher level qualifications. The brain-drain remains a prevalent factor in our beloved country, however, I am one who believes in my country and in patriotism, so for me to be tempted to succumb to the migration mentality due to the continuous pressures being exerted, highlights my level of frustration.
Additionally, in light of the VAT on education, I feel as though my right as citizen has been violated. I seek no handouts, no scholarships, and no support from my place of employment and I am self-sponsoring my studies on my already limited salary. With this VAT which almost increases my fees by $10,000, it is frustrating to understand why such a decision was made and continues to exist despite repeated pleas for reconsideration.
While I understand there are institutions that dodge paying their taxes and should be held accountable, I am of the opinion that as an intelligent, policy-making body, actions should be taken to have this decision revised to penalize those institutions rather than impose a penalty such as this to all institutions. I appeal to our government to recognize the effect this has on the common working class citizen and revise this decision and I applaud the tireless efforts of those who continue to stand up against this decision and appeal to the wider public to do same.
Private student

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