More PWDs employed as Guyana transitions from traditional work systems

In Guyana, Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) are provided with the opportunity to access training tailored to their unique circumstances, enabling them to reintegrate into society and be independent through the employment.
In fact, recognising the power of technology to bridge gaps, Guyana is placing significant emphasis on enhancing digital connectivity among persons with disabilities.
This is according to the Programme Manager at the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities, Ganesh Singh, who disclosed that the procurement of digital devices has ramped up over the years to facilitate virtual learning for PWDs, in an effort to help them secure mainstream jobs and start small businesses.

Singh made these remarks during the 17th Session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities held at the United Nations headquarters in New York.
He told the gathering that the move has resulted in more Persons living with Disabilities gaining employment and using technology to perform their duties.
“In Guyana, we have seen the positive impact of technology and digital connectivity including indigenous people with disabilities. Now we have more persons that are living with disabilities that are accessing educational and training opportunities, this has been done with the provision of devices to facilitate virtual learning,” Singh disclosed.
Singh added that the Guyana Government’s efforts to transition from the traditional way of work is aiding the advancement of the vulnerable communities.
Removing barriers
Meanwhile, Director of Disability and Rehabilitation Services at the Health Ministry, Dr Ariane Mangar also shared similar sentiments during her address to the Convention.

In highlighting some of Guyana’s initiatives geared towards the development of persons living with disabilities, Mangar reiterated the Government of Guyana’s commitment to inclusion and equality through the implementation of strategic programmes and policies aimed at removing barriers of separation in society.
On this point, she posited that education, sports, vocational training, and skills training have played a critical role in the economic empowerment of persons living with disabilities.
“There’s a continuous improvement in access to education for more persons with disabilities so that they may be employed in both the private and public sector, including through the government’s part-time work initiative and the open doors, much like in Singapore. This enables them to work alongside their peers, thereby promoting accessibility, inclusion, and equality in the workforce,”
Greater financing
At the opening of the convention on June 11, First Lady Arya issued a call for greater financing to promote inclusive development in developing countries like Guyana.
“Developing countries with limited human and financial resources face major challenges in providing necessary support. Limited institutional, technological, and financial capacities remain barriers in small economies with competing demands,” she pointed out.
The Guyanese First Lady, however, made a heartfelt plea to the international community.

“Guyana calls for greater international financing for Disability-Inclusive Development in developing countries… By supporting these initiatives, the international community can help ensure that persons with disabilities worldwide live with dignity and respect, realising their full potential.”
She added that in a truly inclusive and sustainable world, persons with disabilities must be empowered to live a life with dignity and respect; a life where they can realise their potential,” she stated.
She also painted a blunt picture of the current reality, noting that in many developing countries, the majority of working-age persons with disabilities are unemployed and many children with disabilities do not attend school.
According to Ali, the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has been pivotal in creating momentum for removing institutional and attitudinal barriers.
“Guided by the Convention, Guyana enacted disabilities legislation and adopted a multifaceted approach to ensure that persons with disabilities enjoy equal treatment, focusing on education and empowerment,” she underlined.
All persons living with permanent disabilities in Guyana are eligible to receive monthly financial assistance throughout their lives. Additionally, assistive and mobility aids are provided free of cost, and there is a focus on providing specialised support for children through widespread teacher training.
In 2023, Guyana established the Mahaica Disability Complex, a training and empowerment center providing vital skills training. This initiative is complemented by business grants and interest-free loans, designed to foster economic independence for persons with disabilities.
As part of her commitment to the cause, the First Lady is spearheading an initiative to establish a Business Centre aimed at advancing financial independence and economic empowerment. (G1)