Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud with participants of the workshop
With a more proactive approach towards curbing the childhood obesity crisis in Guyana, a six-day workshop was recently held, specially designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of selected participants from three homes in Georgetown, encompassing both kitchen and administrative staff. The Rotary Club of Garden City, in partnership with the Human Services and Social Security Ministry, collaborated to help tackle the pressing health issue of childhood obesity in Guyana.
Childhood obesity is a growing concern worldwide, including in Guyana. It refers to when children have an excessive amount of body fat relative to their age and height. Some factors contributing to childhood obesity can include unhealthy eating habits, lack of physical activity, sedentary lifestyles, and genetic predisposition. The consequences of childhood obesity can be both immediate and long-term, including an increased risk of developing various health issues such as type two diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and mental health problems. The prevalence of overweight children under 5 years of age is 6.5% and Guyana could be ‘on course’ to preventing this figure from increasing.
In a press release on Tuesday, it was stated that the core objective of the workshop was to empower the participants with the essential expertise and training required to deliver nutritious and healthy meals in safe, hygienic, and aesthetically pleasing institutional settings. The spaces were created to adhere to the highest standards of quality.
Upon completing the intensive workshop, the participants are expected to apply the various skills and principles in their work environs. As such, adhering to workplace procedures that prioritise health, safety, and security. Furthermore, it can be noted that maintaining these high personal presentation standards was crucial to the participants. Participants will be equipped with the knowledge to efficiently prepare shopping lists, practice proper storage and pre-preparation techniques, as well as identify and address hygiene risks proactively.
Additionally, they will learn how to skilfully plan menus by utilising the multi-mix principle and making the most of locally available ingredients. Lastly, they will be able to prepare and present appetising and nutritious meals within institutional settings that mostly caters to children.
The workshop was led by former principal of the Carnegie School of Home Economics, Penelope Harris, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience for all participants. Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud was present at the closing ceremony of the 6-day workshop and presented the participants from various residential facilities with their certificate of completion.
