UNICEF will continue to support MoHSSS’ work plan to protect the vulnerable

Impressed with the programmes and policies successfully implemented to target vulnerable groups including children, Nicolas Pron, UNICEF’s newly appointed Representative to Guyana and Suriname, underscored the agency’s commitment to continue “building on the Ministry’s work plan” to protect the defenceless.  

Mr. Pron made the pledge, this morning, when he and Irfan Akhtar, the agency’s Deputy Representative, paid a courtesy call on Hon Dr. Vindhya Persaud, Minister of Human Services and Social Security at her Lamaha Street office.

UNICEF, Minister Persaud noted, has over the years provided crucial and valuable support, financial or technical, to the Ministry to achieve many of its projects such as the formation of the Early Childhood Development programme and the establishment of Child Advocacy Centres countrywide.

She also divulged a number of initiatives that would be introduced over the next few months, one being a campaign to encourage parents to desist from using violent forms of discipline, including beating to punish their children.   

“I know we live in a culture where this is a norm, but as a direct response, we at the Ministry will be establishing parenting programmes to address this issue. There is a thin line between discipline and abuse,” the Minister explained to the UN representatives.

The need for child Psychologists, experts to handle child trauma and training for Childcare Protection Officers/Case Workers were also discussed.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Mr. Pron commended Hon Persaud on her innovative programmes and indicated that UNICEF stands ready to assist and work with the Ministry to launch some of the initiatives in 2021.