The development trajectory for Guyana is clear, infrastructure is expanding, foreign investment is surging, and new industries are taking shape. Yet, amid this progress, the most critical resource remains the country’s human capital, particularly its youth. The recent remarks by Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo in Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice) serve as a message of encouragement and as a strategic call for the next generation of Guyanese leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs.
The Vice President’s message underscored an important reality: the landscape of opportunity in Guyana is rapidly evolving. Traditional roles and career paths are no longer the only routes to prosperity. The demand for skills across technology, agriculture, tourism, and healthcare is intensifying, and with it comes the necessity for young people to equip themselves accordingly.
In the digital economy, the momentum is unmistakable. The drive to create a modern, tech-driven society means that skills in cybersecurity, digital finance, and application development are essential. Government investment in broadband expansion and public services digitization is not just about efficiency; it is about unlocking a new tier of employment and innovation that can allow Guyana to leapfrog into a competitive digital future. Young people trained in these areas will not only find jobs but can become builders of entirely new enterprises.
In tourism, the country’s natural beauty is now complemented by a boom in hospitality infrastructure. With twelve international hotels under construction, a tourism renaissance is underway. Yet this is not simply about hospitality workers, it is about cultivating a skilled workforce of chefs, event managers, marketing professionals, and operations specialists. These roles require talent and training, both of which are increasingly accessible through national scholarship initiatives such as the GOAL programme. More importantly, they offer a chance to connect local livelihoods with global tourism trends.
Agriculture, often seen through the lens of subsistence and outdated methods, is being reimagined as a modern, technology-driven industry. From smart agriculture practices to large-scale production of corn, soya, and onions, the potential is vast. The use of drones for monitoring and spraying, the introduction of improved seed varieties, and the emphasis on value-added processing all signal a sector ready for innovation. Youth who embrace these changes will not only find sustainable employment but can help lead the charge toward national food security and agri-export expansion.
The ongoing transformation of the healthcare sector presents far-reaching implications beyond the immediate expansion of clinical services. From the supply and management of medical gases to the maintenance of critical equipment, the sector now demands a range of technical and entrepreneurial skills. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed long-standing vulnerabilities in the healthcare system, particularly in areas such as oxygen supply and facility readiness. In response, the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery is creating a more resilient framework—one that invites innovation and private sector participation, especially from enterprising young professionals seeking to contribute meaningfully to national development.
Perhaps most visionary is the proposal for a zero-interest development bank aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises. Access to affordable capital has long been a barrier for youth-led startups. By removing this hurdle, the government is fostering a more inclusive economic environment. With sound ideas, a business plan, and dedication, young entrepreneurs can now participate meaningfully in the country’s economic ascent.
These are projections grounded in policy commitments, infrastructure rollouts, and market trends already in motion. The responsibility now lies with young people to align themselves with these national priorities. That requires a shift in mindset, from seeking immediate but limited roles to preparing for future-ready careers. It means trading in the comfort of the familiar for the challenge of the emerging.
Guyana’s development is not confined to oil and gas. The breadth of opportunity across sectors reveals a diversified growth model where youth participation is not only welcome but necessary. As the economy expands, the demand for dynamic, educated, and progressive individuals will grow exponentially. The country needs leaders, creators, and problem-solvers.
The choices made by today’s youth will define the character of tomorrow’s Guyana. The foundations are being laid, and the tools are becoming increasingly accessible. Now is the moment to act boldly, study deliberately, and innovate relentlessly.
