GUYANA has the potential to become the richest and most prosperous country in the Caribbean community. This is because of the following factors: (i) Its land mass (ii) Its abundance of natural resources (iii) Its diversity of cultures, which comes with a multiracial society that allows us to learn from situations through different vantage points; and (iv) Its commitment to co-exist for the betterment of country. With these factors, there is no limit to our potential.  With approximately 65 percent of the population being 40 years old and younger, people need something to look forward to. This is where mentorship and leadership are important. Leadership here does not mean that from a positional standpoint, but that from wisdom and understanding. For where knowledge is a library of information, wisdom is an ongoing responsibility of leaders.

It requires just a few leaders with wisdom to inspire and motivate the current generation, not just on what they know, but what they are willing to do. The leadership by example approach is important, given that people, by nature, will follow anyone with a sense of purpose, good or bad.

This focus for development starts with rethinking education. This should factor in how education is being used to bring out the best in people, their ambition and desire, which would entail a level of responsibility for others and the nation. Education is also hinged on accountability and responsibility to make sure that the next generation can surpass the accomplishments of the present generation. For instance, this can be achieved with the focus being on specialised knowledge, not just general knowledge, which can lead to confusion and stall ambition.

Specialised knowledge creates excitement in a specific field of interest, and should be led by those who mastered that area of expertise. This does not necessarily have to come from a work or study environment, but one that will also factor in using the expertise from those who, through employment and economic opportunities, created avenues for others.

Where Guyana has the potential to be self-sufficient and producing what is needed for the rest of the Caribbean, with an awareness and responsibility for the environment and ecological system, income and economic opportunities can abound. Government can create the enabling environment through research and development, tax incentives, supports service such as education, technical assistance and improved infrastructure.

A land that has multiple sources to organically produce fruits, vegetables and livestock aids limiting illnesses and diseases associated with food that are grown with artificial aid and ingredients. Locally produced commodities also bring national pride.

There is also need in thinking big to ensure protection of landmass. The majority of the population lives on the coastland, which is below sea level. With climate change, maintenance and forward planning are important to protect the land as we know it, and the people and their properties. Our waterways/irrigation system and sea defences were designed by the Dutch, who have for centuries distinguished themselves as the best in the field of water management. The efforts by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure in tackling this issue, in conjunction with Dutch expertise, are noted and welcomed.

Reliable, efficient and reasonably priced electricity, where this nation can source alternative through water, wind and sun, is needed to make sure location is not a hindrance to development, connectivity to other parts of the country/world, and access to information.

It may be necessary to think about Guyana once again having its own airline. Apart from pride, it shows the country is developing. Transportation is needed to bridge all communities for trade and tourism. People move when there is trade. Trade creates travel, new communities and local institutions, generating additional economic potential.

Guyana has a tri-sector economy-government, business and cooperative, and all should be allowed the scope to succeed. Government should make full use of the role as the conscience of the people by making sure things are done correctly, freely and consistent with the laws. The cooperative sector should be given needed technical support and be left alone to flourish in the areas of choice. And the private sector should take its rightful place in entrepreneurship consistent with the associated risk, responsibility and benefits.