Disability programme helps Guyanese build independent lives

Visually impaired Guyanese Neville Douglas is among more than 1,500 persons with disabilities who have benefited from training, counselling and economic empowerment opportunities under the Guyana Independent Living Skills Programme. The initiative entered a new phase on Wednesday with the launch of Phase Five, aimed at expanding support and opportunities for persons with disabilities across the country.

Douglas spoke at the launch and said the initiative helped transform his life.

“I’m computer literate. I could use the computer. I would like to also say thank you to this programme because through the Small Business Bureau I was given a loan that is collateral-free and interest-free, so that I can be self-sufficient at this time,” he said.

His story underscores the impact of this programme that has already empowered hundreds of with disabilities across Guyana through training, counselling and economic opportunities.

Implemented by the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD) with support from ExxonMobil Guyana, the initiative is now entering its fifth phase with plans to directly benefit approximately 450 additional persons with disabilities.

Delivering remarks on behalf of Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud, Samantha Craig said the programme’s success is best measured through stories like those shared by beneficiaries.

“The testimony reminds us of a simple truth…a programme succeeds not merely when activities are completed, but when lives are enlarged,” she said.

She said that independent living is not about living without support, but about having the skills, confidence and opportunities to make decisions, pursue ambitions and participate fully in society.

Over the years, the ministry has expanded access to skills training, assistive devices, financial assistance and entrepreneurship support for persons with disabilities.

Programme Manager for the GCOPD, Ganesh Singh said the programme initially focused on persons who are blind and visually impaired, providing training in computer literacy, screen-reader technology, mobility skills and career development. However, Phase Five will expand support to persons with physical, intellectual and psychosocial disabilities.

ExxonMobil Guyana’s Socioeconomic Manager, Lorna Carlson, said Exxon has supported the initiative since 2022 and views the programme as an investment in people and communities.

“Participants are being empowered to not only navigate their environments more effectively but also to actively contribute to their communities,” she said.