A total of 84 persons living with disabilities have graduated from skills training programmes aimed at promoting independence, entrepreneurship and economic empowerment.
The initiative, organised by the Office of the First Lady in collaboration with the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), was supported by the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities.
The ceremony, held at the Empower Guyana Building in Palmyra, recognised participants trained in areas including arts and crafts, floral arrangement, pastry making, small electronic repairs, garment construction and commercial food preparation.
First Lady Arya Ali said the programme was designed to expand opportunity and restore dignity.
“This is a milestone that opens doors to independence… it creates pathways to personal and professional growth,” she said, noting that the training targeted Regions Five and Six.
She added that graduates could access support through the Small Business Bureau and a planned Small Business Development Bank, which is expected to provide interest-free loans to micro and small enterprises.
Ali said the broader national target is to integrate 5,000 persons living with disabilities into the workforce, urging graduates not to be limited by stereotypes.
Chairperson of the National Commission on Disabilities Ganesh Singh congratulated the participants, while BIT Chief Executive Officer Richard Maughn encouraged them to pursue opportunities with confidence.
The government has said the programme forms part of efforts to expand inclusive development and improve access to training and employment for persons with disabilities.
