During her presentation in the 2025 Budget Debate on Wednesday, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, took the opportunity to reflect on the government’s transformative work for vulnerable groups across Guyana.
She emphasised the stark contrast between the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration’s approach to vulnerable populations and that of the previous APNU+AFC government.
Dr. Persaud began by noting the chaotic state of the Ministry of Human Services when she assumed office, acknowledging the challenges she faced. However, she declared that the government has since turned the tide, providing “solid, tangible, impactful, consistent, and continuous support” to the nation’s most vulnerable.
Dr. Persaud spotlighted the government’s extensive investment in senior citizens, with the 2025 budget allocating a significant $58.5 billion for social assistance. Of this, $37 billion directly supports old-age pensioners, with additional benefits bringing the total assistance to seniors to over 80% of the allocated amount.
She emphasised that under the current administration, pensioners now benefit from an improved delivery system. Innovations such as direct bank deposits and mobile money services have made it easier for over 4,000 pensioners to access their benefits without the burden of long queues. Furthermore, over 3,500 pensioners now receive their pensions via the “shut-in” delivery system, a vital service that ensures homebound seniors are cared for.
The Minister proudly pointed out that pension payments have more than doubled since the PPP/C came into office, reaching $41,000 per month by 2025, compared to just $20,500 when the APNU+AFC government left office.
Dr. Persaud also underscored the government’s dedication to gender equality, citing several key initiatives that have empowered women across the country. Through the Women’s Innovation Network (WIN) programme, the government has trained over 13,000 women in business literacy, entrepreneurship, and other key skills, with more than 11,000 women set to benefit in 2025. This training has led to impressive employment and entrepreneurship outcomes, with nearly half of the women trained finding success in the workforce.
The government’s gender-focused efforts are not just about training but also about access. Dr. Persaud pointed to initiatives such as the provision of house lots, where 46% of recipients have been women, and the Gold programme, where women make up over 70% of beneficiaries. Additionally, women who are part of the WIN programme will soon benefit from a newly launched app to help promote their businesses and connect them to a wider market.
Addressing the needs of children and individuals with disabilities, Dr. Persaud emphasised the government’s commitment to inclusive care. The introduction of a disability register for children with special needs allows for more targeted interventions, and over 5,000 wheelchairs have been distributed to those in need. Furthermore, the government is providing critical support for persons with disabilities, offering free assistive devices such as hearing aids, white canes, and wheelchairs.
The Learning Lab, established at the Mahaica complex, provides free skills training for persons with disabilities, helping them gain meaningful employment or start their own businesses. The revolving fund, which offers interest-free loans for entrepreneurial ventures, has been a lifeline for over 45 individuals with disabilities, enabling them to pursue their business dreams.
Dr. Persaud also shared plans to continue expanding this network of support, with $35,000 cash grants currently being distributed to individuals with disabilities, alongside a $100,000 cash grant for children with special needs.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by the previous administration, Dr. Persaud was clear that the PPP/C government’s legacy is one of progress, especially for those who have traditionally been sidelined. From expanding services to senior citizens and people with disabilities to empowering women and children, the government’s initiatives are designed to create a more inclusive, equitable society.
With the 2025 budget, Dr. Persaud firmly believes that the government has set the stage for continued success, fostering a future where every citizen—regardless of age, gender, or ability—can thrive.