By Nakasia Logan
Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sports, Charles Ramson, is spearheading transformative initiatives aimed at empowering Guyana’s youth and enriching its cultural landscape.
One significant milestone in this endeavor is the impending accreditation of the Institute of Creative Arts (ICA), which marks a major step forward in Guyana’s art and education sector.
The ICA, comprising schools of music, dance, visual arts, and drama, serves as a beacon of innovation and excellence.
Minister Ramson highlights the importance of this accreditation, ensuring that graduates leave the institute with authentic certificates, thereby enhancing their credibility and employability.
Another cornerstone initiative is the Youth Empowerment and Skills Training (YEST) program, which has undergone remarkable transformation under Minister Ramson’s leadership.
The program now offers vocational training in essential trades such as welding, plumbing, electrical work, insulation, carpentry, and masonry.
What sets the YEST program apart is its unique structure, condensing a one-year program into four months and providing comprehensive support to participants.
Participants not only receive rigorous training but also benefit from stipends, daily meals, and provision of necessary tools for their trades.
Additionally, the ministry facilitates apprenticeships, job placements, and weekend work opportunities, ensuring seamless transition of graduates into the workforce.
Minister Ramson’s initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to investing in its youth, providing them with the skills, resources, and opportunities needed to succeed in various fields and contribute to Guyana’s development.