THE Ministry of Education, on Wednesday, joined the global community in observing World Suicide Prevention Day, under the theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide – Start the Conversation.”

The day serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting mental health, building supportive environments, and fostering resilience, especially among young people.
As part of its continued efforts, the Ministry highlighted its focus on school-based counselling support. Currently, 130 trained counsellors are stationed across 97 of the country’s 117 secondary schools, ensuring that students have access to confidential guidance and psychosocial care.

In addition, trainee teachers at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) benefit from permanent in-house counselling, underscoring the Ministry’s recognition of mental health support at both the secondary and tertiary levels.

The Ministry noted that it continues to strengthen partnerships with parents, teachers, and community stakeholders to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage help-seeking behavior. Teachers and counselors also receive ongoing training to help identify and respond to early signs of distress in students.
“On this World Suicide Prevention Day, we encourage all Guyanese to remember that every conversation, every act of kindness, and every gesture of support can save a life,” the Ministry said in its statement.

Throughout the day, counsellors from the Student Support Unit, together with the 130 school-based counsellors, are leading awareness sessions in secondary schools nationwide. These activities focus on breaking stigma, building resilience, and reminding students that help is always available.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing not only academic excellence but also the holistic well-being of learners.
Students, parents, and teachers were also reminded of the support services available: Inter-Agency Suicide Prevention Help Line: 623-4444 or 600-7896, Guyana 24-Hour Crisis Help Line: 603-3666, Mental Health Unit: 226-1416 and Ministry of Education Guidance and Counselling Department: 225-9537.