Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, on Friday launched the Certificate in Paraprofessional Social Services (CPSS) course in Mahdia, Region Eight.
A release from her ministry said that she described the initiative as a transformative investment in people that will strengthen social services in Guyana’s hinterland while creating meaningful employment.
The government had been criticized for what was perceived as a lack of adequate counselling and other social services in Mahdia following the devastating dormitory fire in 2024 that claimed 20 lives.
Addressing the programme’s first cohort at the Mahdia Primary School, Persaud congratulated the participants for becoming the pioneers of an initiative designed to address the shortage of trained social workers in hinterland communities.
“For too long, many of our hinterland regions have suffered because we do not have enough persons who are trained in social work,” the Minister said. “Your presence here matters because you are the trailblazers and pioneers of this programme.”
The training, which is offered free of cost through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security in partnership with the Guyana Association of Professional Social Workers (GAPSW) and accredited by the University of Guyana, provides participants with accredited foundational training in social work.
Persaud said that graduates will be well-positioned for employment within the Ministry, including the Childcare and Protection Agency, the Social Services Department and the Survivor Advocate Programme.
She noted that the programme supports the Government’s commitment to expanding access to qualified social workers across Guyana, particularly in Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine, “where the need for specialised services remains significant”.
She also emphasised the importance of sound documentation, adherence to standard operating procedures, and ethical conduct.
She described the initiative as another example of the Government of Guyana’s investment in developing human capital alongside the country’s rapid economic growth.
“This programme is an investment in the education of the people of Guyana. As our country develops, we must ensure our human capacity develops alongside it, so that every community has access to the support and professional services it deserves,” the Minister said.
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