Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips urged the graduating class of 2024 from the Rajiv Gandhi University of Science and Technology (RGUST) to actively participate in Guyana’s development, highlighting the Government’s commitment to advancing and modernising the nation’s healthcare sector.
During the White Coat Ceremony at the university’s main auditorium, the prime minister detailed the transformative opportunities within Guyana’s healthcare system, including the construction of 12 new hospitals aimed at enhancing medical services across all regions of the country.
This expansion, he explained, creates an ideal environment for graduates to build their careers, as the demand for skilled medical professionals rises in tandem with the country’s healthcare transformation.
Prime Minister Brigadier (Retired), Mark Phillips speaking on Monday
“Guyana is the place to be at this time, not only because we have oil and gas, but the main reason is how these monies are being spent — and a greater portion of the money, billions of dollars, is being spent to transform our healthcare system…Every healthcare professional, including you, our new doctors, we need you to take your rightful place at this time.”
He reminded the graduates and their families about the Government’s ambitious healthcare objectives and measures to enhance the workforce. These include training at least 2000 nurses and developing other medical professionals in the field.
The graduates were advised to take care of their own health and well-being, prioritise self-care, and strike a balance between their professional and personal lives.
PM Mark Phillips along with the graduating class of 2024
“The demands of your profession will require focus, resilience, and sometimes long hours of hard work. I urge you to prioritise your own mental and physical health, to seek balance, and to recognise that taking care of yourself is not only a necessity but also an act of responsibility to those who rely on you.”
Prime Minister Phillips also urged the graduates to embrace lifelong learning, which he said was essential for staying at the forefront of the evolving fields of science, medicine, and technology.
These core areas, he explained, will be central to Guyana’s transformation, advancing medical care and addressing broader societal challenges like environmental sustainability.
Prime Minister Phillips congratulated the RGUST Class of 2024, commended their readiness to shape a brighter future for Guyana and reaffirmed the Government’s support for their journey.
Nineteen students graduated from the programme.
