-by Kimberly Giddings
Guyana’s growing private sector continues to benefit from increased investment in youth entrepreneurship, as 79 graduates of the Youth Entrepreneurial Skills Training Programme prepare to enter the business environment with marketable skills and entrepreneurial knowledge.
The programme, implemented by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, is designed to move young people beyond skills acquisition by providing them with the foundation to develop sustainable businesses, create employment and contribute to economic activity.
The training is also helping to diversify participation in traditionally male-dominated trades.
More young women are pursuing skills in areas such as carpentry, masonry and welding, opening new avenues for them to participate in the skilled labour market and establish their own enterprises.
For the latest graduates, the programme represents an opportunity to turn technical skills into income-generating ventures and several said the training has strengthened their confidence, business outlook and readiness to pursue self-employment.
Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Steven Jacobs, speaking at the graduation said approximately 38,000 new businesses have been established in Guyana over the past several years, reflecting the growing entrepreneurial activity in the country.
Jacobs is encouraging young people to capitalize on this expanding business environment and make use of the Government’s financing initiatives, which are designed to provide entrepreneurs and small business owners.
“One of the main things always spoken about is access to finance, how can we access finance to take our business to the next level? I’m happy and proud to say the government has answered that call with the Guyana Developing Bank and that possess an opportunity for each and every single one of you here,” the minister said.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr. also urged the graduates to move beyond seeking employment and work towards becoming employers while emphasizing the importance of mastering their craft, learning from experienced professionals and continuously improving their skills to increase their value in the marketplace.
