COHESION is realised when persons respect the views of others as they collaborate to develop the country. This view was posited by Programme Coordinator at the Ministry of Social Cohesion, Sharon Patterson, at a sensitisation outreach held by the Ministry in Karasabai, Region Nine, Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo.

The visiting team was led by Patterson, who was accompanied by Liaison Officer Shabbir Ali, by Toshao Elvis Edwards and District Development Officer Leroy Edwards. Patterson told the residents that it is important to recognise the undertakings of social cohesion. “It is not saying that you have to put away our political views, or you have to put away your religious views or your cultural views. Everybody still holds on to what they believe in but cohesion and harmony allows you to still respect the differences. So, you do not have to change your way, you do not have to give up what you believe in, but what it does is that it helps you to have a deeper appreciation for the other person’s difference, what the other person believes in; but you can still work together.”

The Programme Coordinator said the ministry’s goal is a unified Guyana and, as such, is willing to work along with communities to strengthen partnership and bridge gaps. The residents were also informed of some of the activities the Ministry will be undertaking to foster social cohesion. Reference was made to the hosting of the second Harmony village which is scheduled to be held this year on April 12. Patterson encouraged the Karasabai residents to come forward with similar ideas which will see the entire community benefiting.

Toshao of the village, Elvis Edwards, welcomed the initiative by the ministry. He noted that there is a need for citizens to work together to develop the country. Edwards told the gathering that as residents of Karasabai and citizens of Guyana, they have a responsibility to promote and practise social cohesion.

“I never knew the meaning of the word cohesion but I think the work cohesion means together. For example, I think when you are building a structure, cement, mud, rock, sand, everything comes together and, make concrete and make a proper foundation.”
District Development Officer (DDO) Leroy Edwards said that he is prepared to work with any ministry of the government for the advancement of the people. The DDO said that collaboration is the only way to ensure development within the region.
The outreach in the community is part of the Ministry’s work plan to promote social cohesion countrywide for a unified Guyana. It will be followed by a series of workshops aimed at providing residents with a clearer understanding of the methods to achieve social cohesion. (DPI)