Guyana is introducing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Respiratory Care at the University of Guyana, marking a significant expansion in the country’s academic offerings.
This new program, launched recently, is a collaborative effort involving the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), the Ministry of Health, UG, and several U.S. universities, including Texas State University.
Professor Sharon Armstead, a Guyanese-born professor at Texas State University, played a key role in developing the curriculum.
She highlighted that Guyana is now the only country in CARICOM and the wider Caribbean region offering this specialized program, which is expected to attract students from across the Caribbean.
Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony emphasized that the program addresses the challenges exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic and aims to enhance Guyana’s capacity in respiratory health.
He also stressed the importance of inclusive recruitment to ensure the program benefits all regions of the country.
The introduction of this program supports Guyana’s goal of developing a world-class healthcare system and is expected to contribute positively to the country’s mortality rates, particularly infant mortality.