THE government will expand its stakeholder engagement programme in the coming months to address several pressing social issues, including gambling, substance abuse and alcohol abuse.
Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, announced this at a stakeholder consultation on the impact of social media on children on Friday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.
According to the minister, while the current consultation focuses on the effects of social media on young people, similar engagements will soon be held to examine other issues that significantly impact families and society.
“In the coming months, you will see similar engagements on other social issues,” Minister Griffith stated.
He noted that the initiative forms part of a broader agenda outlined by President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali to tackle social challenges affecting communities across the country.
He explained that the consultations are intended to gather views and recommendations from stakeholders and members of the public to help guide government policies and interventions.
The minister referenced President Ali’s development roadmap presented on December 17, during which emphasis was placed on addressing the effects of social media, gambling, substance abuse and alcohol abuse as part of Guyana’s ongoing social-development efforts.
The labour minister said the government’s approach is rooted in consultation and dialogue, allowing citizens and stakeholders to contribute meaningfully to policy discussions and solutions.
He encouraged participants to view the engagements as opportunities to influence decisions that affect their families, communities and future generations. (DPI)