Griffith: Youth training, innovation to be central focus over next give years

Youth training and innovation will be at the centre of development agenda over the next five years as the government seeks to build a future-ready workforce, Labour and Manpower Planning Minister Keoma Griffith said.

Speaking after President Dr Irfaan Ali’s national address on December 17, Griffith said the President outlined “a bold and ambitious vision” that prioritises people, with young citizens playing a central role.

“Over the next five years, we will make sure young people in every region get full access to training, jobs, innovation and even affordable housing,” he said.

Griffith said several youth-focused initiatives are already under way, including ICT training in hinterland and remote communities and a flagship agriculture programme targeting young people involved in high-value crops.

“This is about getting the youth in the game, building skills, and creating paths to real jobs,” he said.
Innovation will be supported through expanded access to financing and technology, Griffith said.

“Through the new Guyana Development Bank, young entrepreneurs get zero interest loans for which no collateral is needed. Young people who access this facility will get mentorship,” he said.

He added that digital platforms are being used to connect employment opportunities directly to communities.

“There is no need to relocate. Through ICT networks, we are supporting micro-enterprises and turning rural areas into economic hubs,” he said.

Griffith also highlighted significant investments in skills training, noting that tuition fees will be abolished at all government technical institutes. He cited the Oil and Gas Institute at Port Mourant and the near completion of the Hospitality Institute in Region Six as part of efforts to modernise training to international standards.

On employment, Griffith said the labour market has undergone a major shift. “In the last five years, we have completely flipped the script by creating over 60,000 new positions,” he said, adding that some employers are now facing labour shortages.

“This is actually a good problem to have. Because our philosophy is clear. Growth without jobs is development that doesn’t deliver, and jobs without skills won’t last. We’re building a future proof workforce with revolutionary technical training, modernising education to international standards and using digital tools to bring jobs to people,” he said.