Minister Vindhya Persaud holds virtual Town Hall meeting with persons with disabilities

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Hon. Dr. Vindhya Persaud, on Thursday, highlighted the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s programmes for persons living with disabilities during a virtual Town Hall meeting organised by the Guyana Council of Organisation for persons living with disabilities.

She noted the diverse technical vocational training programmes, including ICT, garment construction, mobility and guidance counseling targeting 600 persons in a hybrid model of delivery, among other programmes.

Dr. Persaud noted the first batch of graduates from the training programme who received electronic tablets as well as support aids. Graduates of the first batch said the programme was life changing as they were motivated to further their studies. Some said they were excited about their first-time experience with ICT.

With over 80 persons in attendance, the interactive and candid session, heard concerns about the access to public buildings and other businesses, the overall treatment of persons living with disabilities by the public, access to education and employment opportunities.

Minister Persaud committed to more engagements, noting that persons living with disabilities could continue to access support and assistive aids through the ministry and begin micro enterprising through a revolving fund managed by the ministry and the Small Business Bureau. She also shared plans about the center currently under construction in the Mahaica Hospital compound, which will cater for the training and other needs for persons living with disabilities.