Region 8 residents gain pathway to social work careers

…as Certificate in Paraprofessional Social Services training opens

Residents of Region Eight now have access to accredited training in social work following the launch of the Certificate in Paraprofessional Social Services (CPSS) programme by Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud on Friday. The programme, launched at the Mahdia Primary School, is aimed at addressing the shortage of trained social workers in Guyana’s hinterland while creating employment opportunities for residents. Addressing the programme’s first cohort, Minister Persaud congratulated the participants, describing them as the pioneers of an initiative designed to strengthen social services in hinterland communities. She noted that many hinterland regions have long faced a shortage of trained social workers and said the participants would play an important role in improving access to social services in their communities.

The CPSS programme is being offered free of cost through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security in partnership with the Guyana Association of Professional Social Workers (GAPSW). The course is accredited by the University of Guyana (UG) and provides participants with foundational training in social work. According to the Minister, graduates will be eligible for employment opportunities within the Ministry, including the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA), the Social Services Department and the Survivor Advocate Programme. She encouraged participants to view the training as the beginning of a long-term career in social work, highlighting its potential to positively impact communities across the country.
Persaud said the initiative supports the Government’s efforts to expand access to qualified social workers, particularly in Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine, where demand for specialised social services remains high. She also highlighted the role of social workers in areas such as child protection, family welfare, mental health, gender-based violence and domestic violence, noting that stronger social services are essential to supporting vulnerable individuals and families. The Minister further stressed the importance of maintaining proper documentation, following established procedures and upholding integrity, transparency and accountability, especially as social workers often contribute to court proceedings and case management. Describing the programme as an investment in Guyana’s human capital, Persaud said the country’s workforce must continue to develop alongside its economic growth to ensure every community has access to qualified professional support.