-$100,000 ‘Because We Care’ grant, $100,000 transportation grant for learners,
$40,000 monthly public assistance, $60,000 old-age pension among commitments made

AHEAD of today’s highly anticipated manifesto launch, President Dr Irfaan Ali announced a slew of social support measures aimed at significantly improving the lives of Guyanese families, students and pensioners.

The announcement came on Sunday during a massive rally held in Lethem, Region Nine, where thousands gathered to hear from the Head of State and other members of the governing People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).

Among the major measures revealed was a substantial increase in support for school-aged children. Each child will now benefit from a total of $200,000 grant annually, marking one of the most significant education-related investments by the government to date.

He explained that the ‘Because We Care cash grant will be increased from the current $50, 000 to $100,000 per child.

“We have a responsibility to this economy, to make promises and commitment that are viable, that are achievable, that are implementable, and that will keep our country safe, our people safe, not only now, but long into the future,” President Ali told the mammoth crowd.

The newly introduced transportation grant which aims to ease the cost of burden on families will provide each school child with $100,000. This grant will be used by parents to support transportation needs, especially for those in hinterland and remote communities.

“We are concerned about responsible policy making. You know that in your family, you don’t make decisions only for the immediate moment. You make decisions that will ensure your family is safe for the long term,” he added.

This policy will see a yearly injection of $40 billion being placed back into the pockets of Guyanese parents. This year, each eligible child received a total of GYD $55,000, which included the GYD $50,000 ‘Because We Care’ cash grant and a GYD $5,000 school uniform and supplies grant. This education programme benefits learners who attend private and public schools.

“We understand that the function of the economy, the performance of the economy, is closely correlated to the commitments we’re making. That is why I’m telling you at a minimum, because once our economy performs at a higher-than-expected rate, then you can expect more benefits and expanded benefits coming to you, your children and your families,” he emphasised.

Meanwhile, the President told the gathering that public assistance recipients will also see improved support, with payments rising to $40,000 monthly. This increase is expected to benefit thousands of vulnerable households across the country.

Senior citizens are set to receive enhanced financial backing as well. Monthly old-age pensions will be increased to $60,000, offering much-needed relief to elderly Guyanese. In addition, pensioners will receive a $50,000 transportation grant, further easing the cost of mobility and access to essential services.

Fulfilling its promise made in 2020, the PPP/C government doubled the old-age pension, moving it from $20,500 to $41,000.

He explained that $65 billion will be set aside for old-aged pensioners, $18 billion more than what it is today.

Meanwhile $4 billion will be set aside for the transportation grant.

The new measures form part of the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure that every citizen benefits directly from Guyana’s growing economy.

“And let me be very clear, all of these are our minimum position. You’ve seen our performance in the last five years; we have exceeded every single thing we promise. We don’t go back. We go forward.”