STUDENTS of the Port Kaituma Secondary School recently benefitted from an educational awareness session hosted by the Ministry of Labour, aimed at promoting greater understanding of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) and the harmful effects of child labour.

The interactive session, facilitated by Labour Officer, Mr. Clement Adams and Occupational Safety and Health Officer Mr. Chavez Daniels, formed part of the Ministry’s national observance of Child Labour Month 2025, held under the theme: “Progress is clear, but there is more to do: Let’s speed up efforts.

During the session, students were introduced to key concepts including the definition of workplace hazards, the root causes and worst forms of child labour, and the impact of unsafe work practices on the environment and human life. The facilitators also delved into the hierarchy of control in safety systems, emphasising the importance of education and awareness in preventing OSH-related injuries and fatalities.

In addition, the officers highlighted the role of young people in supporting the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to eliminate child labour and improve safety standards. Students were encouraged to be informed advocates, both in their communities and future workplaces.

The session forms part of a series of outreach activities by the Ministry of Labour to raise awareness in schools across Guyana. The initiative is designed to empower students with knowledge that promotes safe, ethical, and legal labour practices, especially in hinterland and vulnerable communities.