President Dr Irfaan Ali on Wednesday pledged to expand and enhance Guyana’s part-time employment programme if re-elected, aiming to transition thousands of current beneficiaries into full-time jobs and entrepreneurship.
Speaking at a community meeting in Rose Hall, Corentyne, Ali said the government has a “bigger plan” for the more than 15,000 individuals currently enrolled in the initiative, which includes many single mothers.
“We don’t want our part-time workers to remain at one level,” Ali said, adding: “We want to graduate them into owning businesses and securing full-time employment so they can better utilise their talents and improve their lives.”
The programme provides part-time employment for up to 10 days per month, with workers earning as much as $40,000. The government has reported that over $600 million has been disbursed through the initiative to date.
Ali also warned against “fanciful promises” from opposition parties ahead of national elections, urging workers to consider which government introduced the programme during a time of economic need.
“Ask yourself who stood by you when you had no opportunity to earn — whether you were a sugar worker, a teacher, a farmer, or a mother with no income,” he said, pointing out that “This programme gave thousands a chance.”
The government says the expanded version of the initiative will prioritise training, business development support, and pathways to permanent jobs.
