Close to 1000 children, including over 300 migrant children, are benefitting from comprehensive early childhood development programs and family support services in the Mabaruma Sub District of Barima-Waini, Region One. This significant initiative was highlighted during a recent high-level visit to the region by UNICEF Guyana, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs in Canada, Maninder Sidhu, the High Commissioner of Canada to Guyana, His Excellency Mark Berman, and other esteemed dignitaries. The program, funded by a three-million-dollar grant from the Department of Foreign Affairs Trade and Development, Canada, aims to create a safe and nurturing environment for children under 4 years old and their parents, promoting access to quality early childhood development services.
One crucial component of the three-million-dollar project is the Early Childhood Development (ECD) program, which has been implemented in several communities within the Mabaruma Sub District. These communities, including Hosororo, Mabaruma Central, White Water, Khans Hill, Yarakita, and Kamwatta, have witnessed an influx of migrant families in recent times. During the visit to the ECD facility at Khans Hill Health Post, the team from Canada, UNICEF, and Regional Officers were given a tour by Community Health Worker (CHW) Theresa Singh, who highlighted the positive impact of the program in the community. Singh expressed that the program has not only enhanced children’s learning and school readiness but has also strengthened parent-child communication and engagement. She emphasized the program’s value in empowering community members to share their knowledge and experiences with other communities for the benefit of all.
Singh further explained that Khans Hill Health Post serves as an essential hub for many migrant families in the area. Although some families have relocated to different communities, the remaining migrants continue to utilize the facility, with numerous children now enrolled in nursery-level education. Despite potential language barriers, Singh noted that the majority of migrants in the area have a good understanding of English, facilitating effective communication and engagement within the program.
The Early Childhood Development program in the Mabaruma Sub District is making a significant difference in the lives of nearly 1000 children, including migrant children, by providing them with a solid foundation for their holistic development. Through comprehensive support services and a nurturing environment, this initiative is equipping children with the skills, confidence, and enthusiasm needed to thrive as they progress through their educational journey. The collaborative efforts between UNICEF, the Government of Guyana, and the support of Canada have played a pivotal role in ensuring the well-being and future success of these young individuals in the Mabaruma community and beyond.
