Youths from the Hinterland are optimistic that corporate Guyana and the Government will support their carpentry and joinery efforts, which is an initiative being undertaken in the ongoing Hinterland Employment and Youth Service HEYS Program.

A release from the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs noted that the Youth program, which is a one year initiative, is intended to create an environment where youth can become self-sufficient.

“While Indigenous peoples are known for their creative aptitude adding value to their product is critical, thus the drive from the young men and women to hone their carpentry and joinery skills,” the release noted.

It was noted that youth in regions seven and eight in particular are producing a variety of quality furniture including tables, chairs/rocking chairs, desks, cupboards, bed frames, stools among other items and it is their hope that organizations will be willing to purchase these items.

“The youth are optimistic that the Ministries of Education and Public Health and village councils can support them by purchasing these items to furnish school buildings, health centers and the respective village offices and guest houses.”

The release further noted, “The same can be said for youth involved in garment construction, cake decorating/catering, electrical installation, auto-mechanics and information technology. Their expertise can be equally utilized. The women are sewing clothing including pants, shirts, ladies tops, skirts, and also involved in embroidery and knitting.”

During last month’s Heritage activities in Region Nine Vice President and Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Sydney Allicock emphasized that “Guyana is on the move and quickly being recognized, while there are hiccups things are moving on, things are moving quicker than I thought personally and for you to be on that train we have to respect time.”

Approximately two thousand youth from across Guyana are assured of positively contributing to society when they successfully complete the HEYS Program.