On Tuesday, Vice-President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to improving the lives of Amerindian communities, assuring village leaders in Region Two that major investments are being directed towards employment creation, education, training and community development.
Speaking at a public outreach event on the Essequibo Coast, Dr Jagdeo said the administration remains focused on ensuring that young people in hinterland communities have greater access to jobs and economic opportunities, as part of the government’s broader development agenda.
The outreach brought together Toshoas and representatives from several Amerindian villages, along with Cabinet ministers, permanent secretaries and regional officials. Attendees included Ministers Madanlall Ramraj, Priya Manickchand, Vindhya Persaud, Zulfikar Mustapha, Sarah Browne and Ashni Singh.
Dr Jagdeo explained that although some issues may take time to resolve, the government remains determined to transform Amerindian villages through sustained investment, development projects and expanded training opportunities for residents.
He disclosed that approximately $1.4 billion has been allocated to projects in Amerindian communities in Region Two, as part of a wider national programme benefiting 252 Amerindian villages across Guyana.
According to the Vice-President, more than 3,000 projects are underway across communities nationwide, aimed at improving livelihoods, boosting local economies, and creating long-term opportunities for residents.
Special emphasis, he noted, is also being placed on education and skills development to ensure that young people are better prepared for future employment opportunities.
Dr Jagdeo encouraged students and young adults to make full use of the government’s free university education initiative, emphasising that tuition-free access to the University of Guyana is available to qualified students.
He said education remains one of the administration’s highest priorities, noting that the government is committed to ensuring that every child has access to free education at all levels.
The Vice-President also highlighted ongoing housing assistance and infrastructure improvements along the Essequibo Coast as part of the government’s wider development programme for Region Two.
“This is just the beginning of the conversation,” Dr Jagdeo told village leaders, emphasising the importance of continued collaboration between government and Amerindian communities to advance development initiatives.
Meanwhile, Keanu Thomas expressed appreciation for the outreach. He thanked the Vice-President for engaging directly with residents, noting that communities welcomed the opportunity to raise concerns and discuss development priorities face-to-face with government officials.