The Community Support Officers (CSOs) programme in Guyana has made significant strides, providing skills training to over 2,600 young Amerindians in the past three years.
In the previous year alone, the Amerindian Affairs Ministry recorded substantial participation in various training courses under the CSOs programme.
Minister Pauline Sukhai shared the achievements in a press briefing.
The training included 402 CSOs, comprising both males and females, in garment construction.
Additionally, 137 individuals received training in small engine repairs, 62 in tourism and hospitality, and 73 in tractor operation and maintenance.
This totaled to 402 trained individuals, with 181 males and 221 females benefiting.
Minister Sukhai provided further insights into the overall impact of the CSOs programme, stating that over the last three years, it has engaged 2,645 young Amerindians.
The beneficiaries encompass males, females, single parents, and individuals with specific needs, such as artists and those above the age of 35.
In the preceding year, the ministry allocated 1.4 billion dollars for the Youth Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Programme, contributing to the capacity building of CSOs.
The CSOs programme has emerged as a valuable initiative, empowering the youth in Amerindian communities by providing them with essential skills and training opportunities.