Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud on Friday launched the Certificate in Paraprofessional Social Services (CPSS) programme in Mahdia, Region Eight, describing it as an initiative aimed at expanding social service capacity in Guyana’s hinterland while creating employment opportunities for residents.
The programme, launched at Mahdia Primary School, is being offered free of cost through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security in partnership with the Guyana Association of Professional Social Workers (GAPSW) and is accredited by the University of Guyana.
Addressing the programme’s first cohort, Persaud said participants were pioneers of an initiative intended to help address the shortage of trained personnel supporting social services in hinterland communities.
“For too long, many of our hinterland regions have suffered because we do not have enough persons who are trained in social work,” the minister said. “Your presence here matters because you are the trailblazers and pioneers of this programme.“
The Certificate in Paraprofessional Social Services provides accredited foundational training in social services and prepares graduates to support the delivery of social work services. It is distinct from a professional social work qualification, which typically requires a university degree in social work and prepares graduates to practise as professional social workers.
According to the ministry, graduates of the certificate programme will be well-positioned for employment within the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, including the Childcare and Protection Agency, the Social Services Department and the Survivor Advocate Programme.
“This is more than free training. It is a launchpad into a career in Social Work. So, think about this as a lifelong path, where you will make a tangible impact on the future of the people of your community, your region, and your country,” Persaud told participants.
The minister said the programme forms part of the government’s efforts to strengthen social services, particularly in Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine, where there is a continuing need for specialised support.
Persaud highlighted the role social workers play in child protection, family welfare, mental health, gender-based violence and domestic violence, while stressing the importance of ethical conduct, proper documentation and adherence to standard operating procedures.
“Justice must always be served, and as a social worker, you become part of that wheel of justice. So when you get into this profession, integrity, transparency and accountability is what will drive you further,” she said.
She added that the initiative represents an investment in developing Guyana’s human capital alongside the country’s economic growth.
“This programme is an investment in the education of the people of Guyana. As our country develops, we must ensure our human capacity develops alongside it, so that every community has access to the support and professional services it deserves,” Persaud said.
