105 frontline health workers added to Region Two workforce

A section of the graduating class

Region Two has added 105 new frontline health workers following the graduation of Patient Care Assistants (PCAs) and Community Health Workers (CHWs) from the Suddie Healthcare Training Institute, officials said.

The graduation ceremony was held at the Anna Regina Secondary School auditorium and was attended by Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Madanlall Ramraj, and regional officials.

The graduates are expected to bolster healthcare delivery across the Pomeroon-Supenaam region.
Of the cohort, 46 graduated as Patient Care Assistants and 59 as Community Health Workers, trained to deliver essential healthcare services within their communities.

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony described the graduates as the region’s newest “health heroes” and said the Ministry of Health remains focused on decentralising training to allow participants to study closer to home.
He said the ministry is developing structured career pathways for health professionals by combining theory and practical training through hybrid programmes.

According to Dr Anthony, nearly 800 people are currently enrolled in registered nursing programmes nationwide, many benefiting from decentralised training.
“This graduation represents more than just certificates,” Dr Anthony said. “These individuals are now equipped to make a real difference in the health and well-being of families across the region.”

The graduation marked the first decentralised Community Health Worker programme in Region Two and the return of the Patient Care Assistant programme after a 25-year hiatus. Officials from the office of Dr Chandroutie Persaud described the development as a key step in addressing local healthcare workforce shortages.

Regional Health Officer Dr Ranjeev Singh underscored the responsibility placed on the graduates. “Every patient you encounter depends on you. Your dedication sets the foundation for stronger, healthier communities,” he said.
Regional Chairman Devin Mohan said the initiative aligns with broader community development goals by strengthening both healthcare services and local capacity.

Minister Madanlall Ramraj said all graduates have already been employed, contributing immediately to healthcare delivery and regional economic activity.
The Patient Care Assistant programme, led by Lucreia Inniss, ran for four months beginning May 2, 2025. Of the initial 56 students enrolled, 48 completed the programme, achieving a 100 per cent pass rate through theoretical and practical assessments.

The Community Health Worker programme, overseen by Leota Hubbard, ran for six months starting July 1, 2025, with all 59 participants graduating. The programme focuses on community-based healthcare delivery and also recorded a 100 per cent pass rate.
Officials said the newly trained health workers are expected to strengthen primary healthcare services across Region Two and support improved access to care at the community level.