$1.3B injected to advance culture, arts in 2022

─ over $841 M to further push youth activities

Guyana will soon see a significant boost in its culture and arts sector, as the PPP/C Government has budgeted some $1.3 billion to further advance a harmonious and productive society.

His Excellency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has stated that the development of culture requires a bottom-up approach of community engagement. 

The Head of State said too, that government is committed to building a more inclusive society, in which diversity is celebrated and citizens coexist in harmony.

In 2021, over 200 artistes benefited from 16 virtual events including the One Guyana Concert as well as the Guyana Talent Search, which were aimed at developing and showcasing Guyanese creative prowess.

To this end, a total of $157.7 million is allocated for the hosting of these events with Guyana Cultural Festival being added this year.

Another $7.5 million was budgeted for the observance of the National Trust’s 50th anniversary.

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for finance, Dr. Ashni Singh said to improve and showcase the nation’s arts and entertainment, government is examining options to expand the reach of young and emerging artistes.    

“The expansion and strengthening of the arts programmes in schools and integrating an expanded community model is expected to benefit our young people across the school system.

“In 2022…we have budgeted $1.3 billion to directly support culture and arts in Guyana including $100 million to establish a fund to promote culture and the arts,” Minister Singh said during Budget 2022 presentation in the National Assembly last Wednesday.

Meanwhile, an allocation of $841.3 million is set aside to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport’s Youth Department to empower Guyana’s youths in 2022.

“Government is committed to this important segment of our population, our youth, our future, through targeted education including practical and life skills training, community engagements and representation in national and international events,” Minister Singh underscored.

Approximately 3,390 young people were trained in areas including robotics, civic education, and job readiness, with over $100 million being expended in 2021.

The PPP/C Administration also operationalised the Youth Entrepreneur and Mentorship Programme, formerly known as the Youth Innovation Programme of Guyana and will expand the programme to accommodate 85 grants at a total value of $85 million.