President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has unveiled an ambitious development agenda for Region Two, announcing the establishment of a medical school and a faculty of engineering for the region.
These initiatives form part of his administration’s commitment to expanding education, improving livelihoods and building a resilient regional economy.
Speaking to a large gathering at the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) rally in Anna Regina, President Ali highlighted the visible transformation taking place across Essequibo.
“Look around Region Two—look around Essequibo. A new hospital, new roads—development is happening,” he told the crowd.
He said that over the past five years, Region Two has experienced a strong economic recovery, powered by significant government investment in infrastructure, education and agriculture.
“In just five years, the people of Essequibo have rebuilt their economy, stronger and better every day,” Ali said.
“Development is not a spur-of-the-moment decision. It takes vision, the right ideas, and leadership that delivers lasting results.”
At the heart of the development plan is education. Ali announced that the region will soon house a full-fledged medical school and an engineering faculty, bringing higher education opportunities closer to home and addressing critical skills gaps.
“Over 4,000 scholarships have been granted in Region Two over the last five years,” he said. “We are training teachers, nurses, and professionals right here in the region.”
He urged voters to consider these investments when heading to the polls.
“When you’re voting, you’re voting for a government that is investing in your children’s future—a government building institutions like the medical school,” Ali said.
The president also reaffirmed his administration’s strong support for the agriculture sector—particularly the rice industry, which remains the backbone of Region Two’s economy.
“Rice farmers were told rice is a private business and were neglected,” he said, referencing the previous administration. Under the current government, farmers are receiving GYD 4,000 per bag of paddy and, more recently, a crop insurance plan was launched.
Looking ahead, Ali announced a price stabilisation fund and a fertiliser support programme that will be co-funded with farmers.
“This fund will allow farmers to receive payment at the end of the crop. We will invest in equipment, new machinery, and open more lands for cultivation,” he said.
He cautioned Essequibians to protect the development momentum and not fall for empty gestures, pointing out that young people’s future should not be gambled.
Ali called on Essequibians to defend the progress made and make the right choice on election day.
“We are building a stronger Region Two. With the right leadership, the right investments, and the right vision, there is no limit to what we can achieve together. Come September 1, vote for the PPP/C—the party that’s building your future.”
