The development of the economy is driven by investments which in turn create jobs and other opportunities for growth and development. The skills, knowledge and competence that one has to provide goods or services to meet demands locally or internationally are what constitutes job creation.
Intellectual minds are therefore crucial for developing countries like Guyana. While Guyana is known for its immeasurable natural resources, properly educated human resources are needed for sustainable utilisation and cultivation of these resources. Proper management of these resources is pertinent not only for sustainability, but also for long term economic benefits.
Therefore, young professionals need to escape the idea of receiving a better life abroad, and remain in Guyana to contribute their skills in enhancing economic development. The young minds need to contribute to Guyana’s history in developing the country’s resources in innovative ways, and assist Guyana in adapting to the changes of the future.
The Diaspora also needs to return to contribute its skills and expertise in developing the country, as opportunities are being created for its members in all sectors in which they may have an interest.
The competitive nature of business would continue increasing as innovative minds would generate ideas that would make life easier in ways for all, which will be costly. As such, these innovative minds are needed to implement ideas that sync with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which means that our traditional operation mechanisms would eventually come to an end, as the cost of maintenance would not be economically viable.
Therefore, it is critical that everyone prepares themselves now to adapt to those changes that would be unfolding in the future, or we will not be able to move farther up the chain in becoming a developed country. Guyana has to be able to become self-sustainable, and provide a better future for tomorrow’s leaders.
Bearing this in mind, Guyanese need to take steps to equip themselves with the relevant skills and resources to take advantage of the opportunities that would unfold, and assist in developing the country.
Guyana’s education system has, over the years, been lapsing to improve the quality of output and to expand the scope of reaching every populated area within the country. However, with the $60.7 billion budgeted for 2021 (representing a 175.9% increase from 2019), many initiatives have been introduced to not only improve the quality and access of education, but also to expand the curriculum and make education more affordable for all, inclusive of the tertiary level. In spite of the numerous challenges faced as a result of the pandemic, persons are still being afforded the opportunity to continue their studies online. This initiative, though, has its hiccups for some, creates an opportunity to adapt to a new forum of education where they would be able to learn more in a convenient way.
One initiative implemented thus far is introduction of smart classrooms. As the world becomes technologically advanced and focused, it is about time the younger generation be a part of this opportunity, so that they can cultivate and generate the necessary skills and knowledge in this arena.
The Guyana Leaning Channel is also being upgraded, so as to improve the quality of education it offers. Additionally, more channels and programmes are expected to be implemented alone, with a radio station that would also assist in covering a wider scope of the country, especially the hinterland regions.
Scholarships are also being offered by the Government to persons to pursue diplomas, degrees and masters in their specialised field of interest.
It can be seen that the Government is creating opportunities to provide youths with the ability to improve their academic careers, along with improving their knowledge of managing resources, making them better equipped to contribute to the development of the country.
These innovative minds being a part of the development process of Guyana are bound to boost growth in Guyana’s economy, as businesses would be opened to provide high quality goods and services locally and internationally.
About the Author:
JC. Bhagwandin is a financial and economic analyst, and an Adjunct Instructor at Texila American University, Business College. The views expressed are exclusively his own, and do not necessarily represent those of this newspaper and the institutions he represents. For comments, send to [email protected].
