Labour Ministry strengthens workers’ rights, safety, through training, outreach

In a bid to reinforce workplace safety and promote workers’ rights across Guyana, the Ministry of Labour has recently undertaken two major initiatives targeting both urban and rural communities.
Earlier this week, the Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, met with thirty-eight Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) instructors from six administrative regions, who are currently participating in the Basic Industrial Safety Training (BIST) Programme.
The programme, held in the Conference Room of the National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD), is designed to instil a “safety-first” mindset among students enrolled in technical and vocational training programmes. It equips instructors with essential knowledge to prevent accidents in training environments and, ultimately, in the workforce.
The training, conducted by LearnCorp International, included a one-hour Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) awareness session facilitated by Assistant Chief Occupational Safety and Health Officer, Roydon Croal.
During his visit, Minister Hamilton addressed the instructors, emphasising the critical role they play in shaping the next generation of skilled workers and fostering a culture of safety within technical fields. He noted that since assuming office, the Ministry has been working diligently to shift the national mindset towards prioritising safety, particularly in high-risk sectors such as mining, construction, and agriculture.
The Minister expressed appreciation to the instructors for their contributions in advancing this effort, highlighting the importance of continuous education and technical training to strengthen health and safety systems across all sectors of the economy.

Outreach
In addition to these urban-based initiatives, the Ministry recently conducted a comprehensive sensitisation outreach in Moraikobai Village, located along the Upper Mahaicony River in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice). The outreach targeted workers in the agricultural and logging sectors, with a particular focus on child labour, workers’ rights, and cooperative development.
Led by Labour Officer, Hardat Malchan and supported by Regional Co-operatives Development Officer Vikash Boodhoo, the initiative aimed to raise awareness among villagers about the functions of the Ministry and the services available through its various departments.
During the outreach, the team engaged directly with workers from the agriculture and logging industries, including cash crop farmers, through informal discussions that addressed labour laws, employee rights, occupational safety and health guidelines, and hazards and safety precautions in the workplace. Officials also provided guidance on the formation and registration of Co-operative and Friendly Societies under Chapters 88:01 and 36:04, ensuring that villagers understand their rights and obligations in cooperative ventures.
As part of the visit, an official inspection was conducted at the registered location of the Moraikobai Farmers Association. The Regional Co-operatives Development Officer reviewed the society’s documentation and overall compliance, meeting with the Association’s Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, and other members.
Following the inspection, detailed discussions were held on auditing processes, proper record-keeping practices, the roles and responsibilities of the Committee of Management, and the steps required to maintain compliance with cooperative regulations.
The Ministry also continued its follow-up work with three emerging co-operative societies in Moraikobai that are in the process of registering and seeking assistance from the Small Business Bureau. These include the Moraikobai Blossom View Co-operative Society Ltd., Nature’s Finest Apiary Co-operative Society Ltd., and Moraikobai Nature Touch Hydroponics Co-operative Society Ltd.
Through these initiatives, the Ministry of Labour reaffirmed its commitment to supporting rural and hinterland communities, promoting cooperative entrepreneurship, ensuring sustainable development and decent working conditions for all workers.