–operators, guides benefitting from CPR, safety and tour guide training
THE Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, through the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), is intensifying efforts to build a more skilled and professional tourism workforce through targeted training programmes across the country.
Recent initiatives have seen tour operators, guides and young professionals benefitting from training in areas such as tour guiding, CPR, first aid and lifeguard skills, as part of a broader push to strengthen human capacity in one of Guyana’s fastest-growing sectors.
Among those benefitting is Geeta Singh of GS Transportation, who recently completed tour guide and CPR training. Speaking in a video released by the GTA, Singh described the experience as both enjoyable and highly educational.
“I took for granted our history and culture and through this training I was informed and educated by it,” she said.
She also highlighted the importance of the CPR component. “I have never done CPR before and these past two days were very informative, educational, and I learned life-saving skills that can help someone,” Singh added.
Licensed tour guide Eon Vanderhyden, who operates in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), also praised the initiative, noting that it has strengthened his ability to deliver high-quality service.
“I would like to extend sincere gratitude to the Government of Guyana, the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, and the Guyana Tourism Authority for providing a platform to enhance my skills as a tour guide,” he said.
He added that training in first aid and lifeguard skills has improved his capacity to ensure visitor safety.
Similarly, Colette Ault, founder of Scenic Scapes Adventures, described the training as a valuable opportunity for both personal and business development.
“I want to say how grateful I am… for providing what I might say is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Ault said.
She noted that the programme has enhanced her company’s ability to prioritise client safety.
“As a tour operating company, we want to ensure safety for our clients and those skills are being given to us so that we are able to provide that to our clients,” she said.
For young tourism professional, Marlon Andrews, of Baganara Island Resort, the training has been both impactful and inspiring.
“I appreciate how they are providing classes for young people to improve skills like first aid training and lifeguard training,” Andrews said.
“I benefitted a lot from it… and with my skills I can also help my colleagues.”
The Ministry of Tourism and the GTA have been expanding training opportunities to ensure that both new entrants and experienced professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to support the sector’s growth.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve service standards, enhance visitor safety and create new opportunities within the tourism industry.
By investing in human capital, the government aims to strengthen Guyana’s competitiveness as a tourism destination while ensuring that the sector continues to generate sustainable economic opportunities.
