Ministry honours 15 businesses for supporting youth employment

– selected skills from Central Recruitment agency 

The Ministry of Labour’s Central Recruitment and Manpower Agency (CRMA) has recognised 15 local businesses for collaborating with the agency to employ youth. 

Minister of Labour, Hon. Joseph Hamilton says the event will be held annually to recognise the private sector’s partnership with the Government.

“Together, we show our appreciation by [bestowing] this prestigious award to you, the employers, who readily accepted those youths who were placed in jobs in your industries and entities. This token of appreciation which you receive today, is a gesture, designed to let you know how valuable the Ministry knows you are, by offering those youths opportunity to be gainfully employed.”

Meanwhile, President of the Private Sector Commission, Mr. Nicholas Boyer, highlighted that human capital is vital and can only be strengthened through the collaboration with the Labour Ministry. 

“With youth unemployment in Guyana relatively high, the private sector recognised the importance of ensuring measures are implemented that address the issue of youth unemployment, through a multi-faceted and diverse approach. As such, the business community has a vital role to play in developing and promoting the work done by CRMA, relative to youth employment,” he said. 

The private sector is also collaborating with the Office of the First Lady and the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security to employ persons with disabilities. 

Managing Director of Brans Security Service, Mr. Harold Branford said he was pleased to be associated with the CRMA as his company has supported youth employment for over 20 years. 

“I am making a contribution to the nation, and I feel very proud to be here today. I am urging other upcoming businesses to cooperate with the Ministry because they are doing a fine job with employment that will benefit their businesses through the employment of well-rounded individuals selected by CRMA,” Mr. Branford said. 

Similarly, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of GAFSONS, Mr. David Falconer said his company works with the Ministry to obtain staff. 

“GAFSON’s employed just a little under 1000 persons throughout our various locations, and we try to make sure our people are taken care of and, of course, this is the guidance by the Ministry,” he said. 

The Central Recruitment and Manpower Agency, formerly known as the Labour Exchange, provides jobs for the public by matching them with vacancies in both the public and private sectors.  The ceremony was held at the Sleepin Hotel.