– childcare programmes, grants creating new opportunities through government’s care economy initiative

GOVERNMENT investments in childcare training and support programmes are helping women transform skills into sustainable businesses while creating safe and nurturing spaces for children.
Among those benefitting is Kerriann Hicks, owner of Kerri’s Daycare, who recently completed the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s Childcare Course through the Childcare and Protection Agency’s (CPA) Early Childhood Development Unit.
According to the ministry, Hicks now operates her own daycare facility, providing parents with peace of mind while offering children a safe environment to learn, grow and thrive.
Her success story reflects the broader objectives of the government’s expanding Care Economy initiative, which aims to create employment opportunities while strengthening childcare services across the country.
Speaking in a recent ministry video, Hicks said the training programme had a significant impact on her personal and professional development.
“I learned a lot about children, even a bit more. It taught me a lot of patience and kindness and how to deal with children a little bit more better. So, thank you,” she added.
Another beneficiary, Winette Cornelius, owner of Future Foundation Daycare and Playschool in Bartica, received a $200,000 grant last year to help upgrade her facility through the CPA’s Enhancement of Childcare and Early Learning Facilities and Development Services Grant.
According to the ministry, the investment has helped transform the daycare into a more enriching and welcoming environment for both teachers and children.
The initiative forms part of a wider government strategy aimed at ensuring Guyanese, particularly women, can access training, develop new skills and become financially independent.
Programmes such as the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN), the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) and the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) continue to provide opportunities for women to pursue technical, entrepreneurial and academic development.
A key component of this effort is the government’s recently announced Care Economy: Co-Invest Initiative, which is designed to expand affordable childcare and eldercare services while creating employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.
The childcare facility enhancement grant programme also seeks to empower owners of early learning centres to improve their facilities, creating safer and more comfortable spaces for children.
Earlier this year, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investing in women, children and vulnerable groups.
“Guyana’s children are the custodians of our future, and our women nurture and shape our destiny,” Dr. Singh said during the presentation of Budget 2026.
He noted that protecting, empowering and improving the wellbeing of women, children and senior citizens remains among the government’s highest priorities.
As part of its 2026 agenda, the government has committed $300 million towards expanding childcare services, including the construction of additional day and night care centres beyond Regions Three and Four.
Plans also include continued investment in child-friendly recreational spaces, expanded childcare training programmes and additional support for women through entrepreneurship initiatives, technical training and scholarships.
Through these programmes, the government hopes to strengthen the care economy while creating new opportunities for women to build businesses, support their families and contribute to national development.