The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) Guyana, in partnership with Republic Bank Guyana Limited, recently launched a training programme which saw more than 25 Teachers and guidance counsellors from Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) strengthening their capacity to support the mental health and wellbeing of adolescents.
The Help Adolescents Thrive (HAT) training programme is implemented by UNICEF and funded by Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the Adolescent Health Unit.
Held from June 17-19, 2026, the three-day training provided participants with practical tools and evidence-based approaches to support social and emotional skills building, recognise signs of emotional distress, and connect students with appropriate services when needed.
The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen support systems for adolescents and create safe, nurturing school environments where young people can learn, grow, and thrive.
“Mental health is a critical component of adolescent wellbeing and development,” UNICEF Guyana’s Health Officer Joann Simpson stated
I am especially pleased that this training focuses on building the capacity of Teachers and guidance counsellors to support adolescents in developing social and emotional skills. This is essential for promoting mental wellbeing and preventing mental health conditions. Prevention deserves our focused attention, now more than ever,” she added.
Adolescence is a pivotal period of development, and supportive relationships within schools can play a significant role in promoting resilience, wellbeing, and positive outcomes. Through the HAT programme, educators gain practical knowledge to foster positive interactions with students and create environments where adolescents feel safe seeking help.
Branch Sales Manager, Anna Regina Branch, Republic Bank (Guyana) Ltd, Guitree Ramsamooj, highlighted the importance of investing in adolescent mental health in the region.
“Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited is proud to support this important initiative alongside UNICEF and our government partners. Region Two’s young people deserve environments where they feel supported, understood, and empowered to reach their full potential. By investing in the capacity of Teachers and guidance counsellors, we are helping to build stronger support systems that can positively impact the lives of adolescents for years to come.”
The HAT programme training is one component within the partnership and reflects the shared commitment of UNICEF and Republic Bank to promote positive mental health and wellbeing among adolescents and strengthen community-based support systems.
In April 2026, UNICEF and Republic Bank launched a partnership aimed at strengthening adolescent mental health and psychosocial support across Guyana. The partnership focuses on enhancing awareness, building the capacity of frontline professionals, and expanding access to supportive services for adolescents.
Through targeted investments in schools and communities, the collaboration seeks to ensure that young people have the knowledge, resources, and support needed to thrive. As Guyana continues to prioritise adolescent wellbeing, partnerships such as this demonstrate the power of collective action in creating healthier, safer, and more supportive environments for every young person.
Discover more from Guyana Times
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
