VP Jagdeo, King’s Foundation discuss skills training, sustainable growth in Scotland

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo engaged with The King’s Foundation during an official visit to Scotland, where discussions focused on skills training, sustainable development and future collaboration with Guyana.
According to a press release on Monday, Jagdeo toured several of the Foundation’s programmes at Dumfries House. The initiatives are aimed at sustainable urban development, training and supporting individuals and communities, and creating employment opportunities.
The programmes cover areas including construction, sustainable agriculture, heritage and traditional crafts, STEM education, health and wellbeing, and skills development.

Talks also addressed the Foundation’s growing international work, including its collaboration with Guyana on sustainable urban development. The partnership supports the vision of President Irfaan Ali to ensure Guyana’s rapid urban growth is supported by effective planning, quality design and long-term resilience.
During the visit, Jagdeo also met international students participating in the Foundation’s programmes, including students from Antigua and Barbuda. The students are receiving training in areas such as sustainable construction and practical skills for climate-resilient economies.
Speaking after the visit, Jagdeo said Guyana has made significant progress in recent years through major investments in infrastructure, including roads, bridges, housing and drainage systems, while expanding access to services and economic opportunities. He added that as the country continues to grow, emphasis is now being placed on improving the quality, integration and sustainability of development to ensure citizens benefit from higher living standards.
Over the past week, VP Jagdeo travelled to the United Kingdom (UK), where he had a series of high-level engagements. On Tuesday, he met with King Charles III at Dumfries House in Scotland. Jagdeo also participated in engagements with The King’s Foundation, including the team supporting Guyana’s programme to advance sustainable urban development, as well as representatives from across the Commonwealth, focusing on advancing sustainable development, low-carbon growth, and practical solutions for vulnerable countries. VP also joined a Commonwealth roundtable on the Declaration on Sustainable Urbanisation, which was adopted in Kigali back in 2022.