BELIZE CITY, Thurs. June 20, 2019– The top 25 performers in this year’s Primary School Examinations were honored at the 2019 PSE Award Ceremony on Wednesday. Proud educators, parents and students convened at the Belize Civic Center to be commended for their time and commitment dedicated to achieving these accomplishments amongst a cohort of over 7,000 participating students.

The students were bestowed with plaques and certificates for their exceptional performance, as well as congratulated by the Deputy Prime Minister/ Minister of Education, Hon. Patrick Faber. “We are here to bring together the bright sparks of our students who made this year in the spotlight. Young women, young men, your accomplishments have been truly brilliant this year; your excellence shows in the results we are celebrating today, the results of your hard work, your discipline and firm but supportive parents and teachers,” said Faber.

The top performer, Jasmine Espat, as well as the 2nd place performer, Annelyse Fleser Perdue, were also given the chance to address their peers and supporters with words of wisdom and thanks for being celebrated in the top twenty-five group.

Forty primary schools across the country were also honored for the noteworthy efforts of preparing record numbers of students to sit the exams.

At the ceremony Hon. Patrick Faber discussed the changes occurring for the process and issuance of subsidies for primary school students to attend high school. Most important to note is that the subsidy has been extended for students up to 2nd form, which provides the opportunity for over 11,000 students who are currently enrolled in and are entering secondary school to further their education.

 Also, of the 7,015 students who are presently leaving primary school, over 6,000, will be benefiting from the subsidy. Faber made note of the “tedious process” that has been eliminated for applying for the subsidy, which is being granted to students from at least three of our six districts automatically and entirely.  “For the remaining districts, it is automatically awarded in the rural area, but not in the municipalities,” he said.