IN a bold step toward expanding access to essential financial services, the University of Guyana (UG), through its International Centre for Migration and Diaspora Studies (MiDiAS), has launched a new Financial Inclusion Project in partnership with Mobile Money Guyana (MMG) and One Communications. The initiative, officially unveiled at the Education Lecture Theatre on UG’s Turkeyen Campus during Money Week 2025, aims to empower migrants and low-income Guyanese by providing easier, safer access to financial tools.
The project was created in response to the growing difficulties faced by underbanked and unbanked populations—particularly migrants—who are often excluded from traditional banking services due to challenges such as limited identification, poor financial literacy and structural barriers. By leveraging mobile money platforms and community engagement, the initiative will allow individuals to conduct transactions, receive payments, pay bills, and manage their finances without the need for a conventional bank account.
The first phase of the rollout will focus on underserved communities in Georgetown and Linden, with expansion to other regions planned.
Describing the project as “a path-breaking programme,” UG Vice-Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohamed-Martin said it aligns perfectly with the university’s mission of inclusive national development. “It supports not only UG’s work as a university of service and solution, but it directly benefits those among us, migrants and the underbanked, who are often left behind. This is going to change the lives of many,” she stated. Professor Mohamed-Martin also praised UG’s longstanding partnerships with One Communications and MMG.
MiDiAS Fellow, Ms Gillian Williams, emphasised that the project is designed to meet people where they are. “Many migrants and informal workers are locked out of the financial system. We’re going into communities to share practical, secure tools to help them access the system and thrive,” she said.
CEO of MMG, Mr Mark Singh, highlighted the vital role that mobile platforms play in bridging the financial divide. “MMG enables users, especially those without access to traditional banking, to manage transactions with ease, build credit history and participate in the economy securely,” he noted.
Deputy CEO of One Communications Guyana, Mr Richard Stanton, underscored the broader social purpose of the initiative. “This project is about creating knowledge, building opportunity, and improving quality of life. We are honoured to work with UG and MMG to help transform lives across Guyana.”
Mr Richard Das, Director of Distribution at MMG, pointed out the platform’s extensive reach, with more than 4,000 agents operating nationwide—including in hinterland and rural communities. “From salary payments to everyday purchases, our services are mobile, flexible, and increasingly inclusive—even for those without a bank account,” he said.
The project will unfold in multiple phases and will include language-accessible interfaces, community-based outreaches, and digital literacy training to ensure equitable access for all participants.
The University of Guyana, through MiDiAS, continues to champion research-driven, community-based solutions that address real-world challenges and contribute to the nation’s sustainable development.