GUYANA’S progress towards including persons with disabilities has gained significant momentum in recent years, thanks to laws, government programmes, and dedicated advocates. However, while we celebrate these achievements, we must recognise that true progress relies on sustainability and reaching every part of our society.
The accomplishments are clear. The Prevention of Discrimination Act and the Persons with Disabilities Act establish legal protections against discrimination, require rehabilitation services, and ensure access to free education and healthcare.
Job opportunities have grown significantly, with people with disabilities now working in all sectors. Educational routes are now more available through institutions like the Cyril Potter College of Education and the Board of Industrial Training.
The Remedial Education Programme has already produced its first group of students who have passed the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate exam. Housing access has improved with government support and the Men on a Mission initiative, helping people with disabilities secure loans and access land.
The Centre for Equity, Opportunity, and Innovation showcases Guyana’s integrated approach by employing individuals with disabilities while also offering technical and vocational training.
These efforts, along with the One Guyana Initiative providing resources for economic involvement, show a real commitment from institutions. Guyana is also gaining international recognition for this work, with neighbouring Caribbean countries looking to our example.
There must, however, be continued work to address physical accessibility, as essential facilities, like disability-friendly restrooms, wheelchair ramps, and accessible transport, are usually lacking in public spaces.
Digital accessibility also requires urgent focus, especially as Guyana moves towards digitisation.
The recently released 2025–2030 Disability Manifesto by the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities lays out ambitious goals: A five per cent public sector employment quota, interest-free loans for entrepreneurs with disabilities, and an updated Special Education Needs policy by 2027 with regional adjustments. These recommendations are crucial, but their success hinges on actual implementation.
What truly separates real inclusion from mere gestures is the difference between intention and action. Guyana has the legal framework and political will to promote disability rights, but the real test is turning policies into practice.
This means enforcing building codes, ensuring digital platforms are user-friendly, providing more job opportunities, and allowing educational inclusion in every area.
Guyana can take pride in its progress, but this pride must drive action, not complacency. The next step in disability inclusion involves moving from celebrating achievements to demanding strict adherence to promises made.
Our society should be measured not by the extent of our laws but by how consistently they are enforced and how thoroughly people with disabilities can engage in all aspects of life in Guyana.