Keep the Gate Open

GATE has revolutionized education in Trinidad and Tobago. Degrees are rampant all thanks to a move by government firstly in 2001 with the dollar for dollar programme then in 2004 with the Government Assistance for Tuition Expenses (GATE) programme. For the first time a lot of families can now boast of having degree holders. No longer are Degrees, Masters and PhD’s for a chosen few. Through this avenue, doctors, lawyers, business professionals and many others were produced. Something that to many before seemed unattainable was now a reality.

For 12 years we enjoyed it but like every good thing, it came to an end. Well in this case it didn’t end but the “gate” has closed in a bit. So what does that mean for the generation of students coming up? Yes, the gate is still open but to enter it, we have to put in a little something. Our children have a right to education too so parents have to make sure that they get it. And if we have to help the government, then so be it. We should be thankful that the entire financial burden of tertiary education doesn’t fall on us and the government is still assisting. Citizens from many countries around the world are not as fortunate as we are in T&T.

How do we then ensure that our children are not deprived? How do we keep the "gate" open? Start saving for college. We hear it all the time on American tv. Families have a college fund and it costs way more to get a degree in the US. We need to do the same. Start saving for your children’s education if you’re not already doing it. Who knows how long the existing GATE arrangement will last. It could get better or worse. Don’t chance your child’s future on a possible political decision. Save, Save, Save!!!