MORE than 20 young women, aged 16 to 38, are on a transformative journey to becoming certified in Information Technology (IT) in the rural community of Yakusari in Black Bush Polder, Berbice.

The training, which is being facilitated by the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), holds the potential to greatly improve the job prospects of the young women in Guyana’s growing IT sector.

For many of the participants, this opportunity is a rare one, as rural areas like Yakusari have often been overlooked for educational and training programmes, unlike the more developed coastal regions/areas.

Since the PPP/C Administration took office in August 2020, there has been a concerted effort to bring resources and opportunities to underrepresented communities. Yakusari, a farming village, has long been resilient in the face of challenges such as the high rates of school dropouts, teenage pregnancy, and suicide.

Under the leadership of President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s administration, many of these issues have seen significant improvements.

According to the ministry, the IT certification programme is another significant step towards empowering the community, and creating a brighter future for its residents.

During a recent visit to the training programme, Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton expressed his great admiration for the young women’s commitment.

Minister Hamilton urged the young women to complete the course, emphasising the importance of seizing this government-provided opportunity as a stepping stone towards personal empowerment and financial independence.

The minister also encouraged the trainees to inspire others in the village to join similar programmes and benefit from the training provided by BIT.
In addition to the IT certification, programmes such as Welding and Fabrication, Agro-Processing, Motor Mechanics, Cosmetology, A/C Repairs and Refrigeration, and Electrical Installation are also being conducted in the region.

These initiatives are part of the government’s commitment to enhance the lives of its citizens by improving access to essential services and economic opportunities.