GOVERNMENT has continuously demonstrated that the geographical location of hinterland communities does not prevent their involvement in the country’s national development programme.
The Amerindian Affairs Ministry makes frequent outreaches to these communities across the country.
The most recent was to Apoteri, Crashwater and Rewa in the North Rupununi, Region 9, where Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai and Permanent Secretary Collin Croal, along with the Region 9 Vice-Chair, Claire Singh, and other officers met with residents to listen to their concerns and address them.
At the Apoteri meeting, Minister Sukhai acknowledged the transformation and progress in that community, especially with the construction of new schools and other facilities provided by Government.
She alluded to some of the benefits that residents are receiving in the same way as other hinterland communities are benefiting.
She urged the youth to take advantage of the educational opportunities that Government has made available to them right in their communities, which are further supplemented by others such as the uniform assistance and school-feeding programmes.
These, she said, are aimed at ensuring that every child across Guyana has access to education and the school-feeding programme, in particular, is aimed at boosting children’s daily nutrition.
Minister Sukhai stated that because of the educational advantages that are available to young people today, they are able to make more informed decisions that would enhance their living standards. She urged them to utilise their land and environmental resources which are critical elements to ensuring sustained livelihoods.
Residents were also advised about their Community Development Plans (CDPs) which are supposed to impact positively on the village’s economy.
Toshaos were also encouraged to make use of the opportunities presented during the National Toshaos Council’s Conference to help government make informed decisions with regard to their villages’ development.
Residents raised issues of concern to them with the minister, among which were the need for a more reliable water supply at the schools and more teachers and furniture for the primary and nursery schools in their communities.
A request was also made for the community’s health post to be rehabilitated and upgraded.
Minister Sukhai assured residents that their concerns will be forwarded to the relevant ministries for necessary action to be taken. (GINA)