24 women among 100 persons to graduate from Scotiabank’s youth development initiative

A youth development initiative funded by Scotiabank Guyana and facilitated by Habitat for Humanity saw 100 persons graduating on Sunday last at the Queens College Auditorium. Among those graduating were 24 women.

The Construction Technology and Disaster Risk Reduction Training which began in February received applications from more than two hundred persons from across the country including young contractors, carpenters, business professionals and homeowners.

National Director for HHTT Jennifer Massiah expressed appreciation to Scotiabank Guyana for funding the course, and shared that was designed to meet international humanitarian standards and guidelines which included building codes, building practices, project management and health and safety. Lecturers were drawn from Trinidad and Tobago. She also encouraged local companies to support similar initiatives.

Dason Anthony, a first-time homeowner said he was dissatisfied with the quality of work delivered by some contractors. The training, he said, gave him a better understanding, and construction knowledge.

According to Anthony more people, including contractors, should participate in such courses as it can save homeowners money, and upskill contractors.

Shazeem Baljit a young contractor said he found the course ‘helpful, particularly the lectures and practical on roofing and plastering.’ He said despite ‘knowing some of the theory, the course taught him the right way of doing the work.’

The Construction Technology Training (CTT) was administered by Habitat for Humanity Trinidad and Tobago (HHTT). It introduced participants to theoretical and practical aspects of construction including understanding structural and architectural drawings, health and safety, and concrete technology.

Justin Thompson, Senior Manager in Scotiabank’s Country Management Office told the attendees that the initiative was funded through Scotia Rise programme at a cost of GY$3.875,000. He said his bank is happy to invest in the development of the young people of Guyana and that it’s committed to the promotion of economic resilience and increased access to opportunities to create a more inclusive world.