IN observance of International Men’s Day, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security hosted a National Symposium on Men’s Health and Wellness, on Wednesday, at Herdmanston Lodge, bringing together stakeholders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to address critical issues affecting men.

The symposium, held in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Stabroek, Brocode, and Woodlands Hospital, aimed to promote dialogue on men’s physical and mental health, wellness, and the urgent need to confront domestic violence.
Under the theme “Stronger Men, Stronger Families, Stronger Guyana,” the event sought to foster practical solutions, strengthen community support systems, and encourage informed policy development.
In her keynote address, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, highlighted the growing movement of men supporting one another and initiatives designed to create stronger families and communities.
She emphasised that many men avoid discussing personal issues, often neglecting their mental or sexual health, and stressed the importance of regular wellness checks.
“If men check their mental health as often as they check sports scores, we would have healthier men,” Dr. Persaud said. She recounted instances where men delayed seeking help, sometimes leading to violence or suicide, underscoring the need for mentorship and structured support.
The Ministry has developed programmes to address these challenges, including the Brave Programme and Brave Centre in Region Three, safe spaces, the 914 hotline, the I Matter app, and gender-focused initiatives.
A draft policy on partner assault, titled the Partner Assault Relationship Programme, was presented to symposium stakeholders to guide ongoing efforts.

Lieutenant Colonel Bageshwari Murli, representing Men on Mission (MoM), praised the symposium as a call for men to lead in their families and communities.
He outlined MoM’s work, which includes mentoring programmes for boys aged seven to 15, housing support for single parents, and empowerment initiatives impacting over 1,000 vulnerable individuals nationwide.
“Empowering men strengthens communities,” Murli said. “Our programmes are about dignity, healing, and hope for men who bear unseen burdens and guide the next generation.”
The day-long event brought together public officials, private-sector representatives, and civil society partners to discuss strategies for improving men’s wellness and fostering environments where men can access the support needed to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.