The University of Guyana (UG), through its International Centre for Migration and Diaspora Studies (MiDiAS), has officially launched a Financial Inclusion Project in collaboration with Mobile Money Guyana (MMG) and One Communications, aimed at expanding access to essential financial services for migrants and low-income Guyanese citizens. The project was launched at the Education Lecture Theatre (ELT) at UG’s Turkeyen Campus.
The initiative was created in response to growing challenges faced by underbanked populations, particularly migrants, who often lack access to traditional banking services due to limited identification, financial literacy, and systemic barriers. By using mobile money platforms and community outreach, the project will enable users to securely conduct transactions, receive payments, pay bills, and manage expenses without needing a conventional bank account. The initial rollout will focus on underserved communities in Georgetown and Linden, with planned expansions to other regions.
At the launch event held at UG’s Turkeyen Campus, during Money Week 2025, Vice-Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin described the initiative as “a pathbreaking programme” that aligns with UG’s mission of inclusive development. “It supports not only UG’s work as a university of service and solution, but it directly benefits those among us, migrants and the underbanked, who are often left behind. This is going to change the lives of many,” she said. The Vice-Chancellor also commended the longstanding collaboration with UG and One Communications.
Representing MiDiAS, Fellow Ms. Gillian Williams shared that the project will target unbanked populations starting in Georgetown and Linden in the first phase. “Many migrants and informal workers are locked out of the system. We’re going into communities to share practical, secure tools to help them access the financial system,” she said.
CEO of MMG, Mr. Mark Singh, stressed the importance of mobile money platforms in closing gaps in financial access. “MMG enables users, especially those without access to traditional banking, to manage transactions with ease, build credit history, and participate in the economy securely,” he explained.
Deputy CEO of One Communications Guyana, Mr. Richard Stanton, said the initiative is about more than just technology. “This project is about creating knowledge, building opportunity, and improving quality of life. We are honoured to work with UG and MMG to help transform lives across Guyana.”
Mr. Richard Das, Director of Distribution at MMG, highlighted the platform’s reach, with over 4,000 agents across Guyana, including hinterland and rural areas. “From salary payments to everyday transactions, our services are mobile, flexible, and increasingly inclusive—even without a traditional bank account,” he noted.
The project will roll out in phases and will include language-accessible features, community-based outreach, and digital literacy support. It is designed to strengthen economic resilience and promote greater equity in access to financial services.
The University of Guyana, through MiDiAS, remains committed to impactful, research-driven solutions that uplift vulnerable populations and support national development.
Please see the link to the launch: https://youtu.be/UQzIlKOqD1I
