October 28, 2024
The Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, has called for enhanced data collection and greater public awareness to address and properly define child labour within Guyana.
Speaking at the opening of a three-day workshop, organized in partnership with the Ministry of Labour, Dr. Persaud highlighted the need for better coordination among agencies and the media to ensure accurate and consistent reporting on the issue.
Dr. Persaud pointed out that current definitions and reporting methods often fail to capture the cultural context of Guyana, leading to misleading representations of the government’s efforts to combat child labour.
She emphasized the importance of distinguishing between child labour and normal household chores, citing international standards that describe child labour as work that harms a child’s development and deprives them of their potential.
The Minister proposed a strategic action plan to address child labour, suggesting the development of a comprehensive five-year or three-year plan with specific targets.
In addition to policy changes, Dr. Persaud stressed the need for education at both the community and youth levels, helping people understand what constitutes child labour and its impact on families.
The workshop, themed “Partnering to Keep Children Safe,” will run until Wednesday, October 30, and includes collaboration with the Ministry of Education, the Guyana Police Force, and Immigration Services.