Cohesion training welcomed in Region Three
DPI, GUYANA, Friday, June 15, 2018
Residents of Belle West, Essequibo Islands-West Demerara welcomed the opportunity to participate in a workshop hosted by the Ministry of Social Cohesion.
As the ministry continues to take its sensitisation workshops countrywide, the Region Three were exposed to two days of programmes that focused on creating linkages at the community level to better understand social cohesion as an approach to community and national development
Juliet Beete, a nurse at the Belle West Health Centre told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that initially, she was unclear about the objective of the workshop. However, having participated in the two-day exercise she is more informed about the negative effects of bias and prejudice.
Resident, Ansel Charles said: “the training was extremely helpful, as it made each of us take a deeper look at ourselves and. The way in which we relate to others who are of different belief systems, of a different race, colour, or class. We were taught how to collaborate to make a better community despite our differences.”
Ramesh Singh, Assistant Superintendent, Leonora Police Station said that the training programme was an eye opener, particularly in his profession.
The exercise made an impact on resident and educator Beverly Roberts. “After learning the various steps, I can work to better myself and with this knowledge teach children to recognize their own value. By helping others, I can become role model to the youths in the community.”
According to the Programme Coordinator attached to the ministry, Sharon Patterson, “The training is not intended to be an end but really a means to an end. So, with the knowledge and information gained, the participants are expected to demonstrate that they truly understand what it takes to bring people together for the benefit of their community.”
Patterson noted that the suggestions presented by the participants target both youths and adults. She assured that the ministry will assist the various groups to achieve their goals.
The diversity and inclusion training programme is the 64th thus far and the fourth undertaken in the Region Three.
By: Neola Damon.