Digicel Guyana has committed $60 million under an agreement to support the Ministry of Health on its special needs vision over the next three years.
“The long-term vision is the creation of world-class development facilities for children with special needs across the ten regions of Guyana,” the company announced on Tuesday, while noting that it has been a long-standing partner of the government and other organisations for social development across communities in Guyana.
In a statement, it said the initial period starts with investing in special needs training for individuals and professionals within the disabilities sector in Guyana.
“This agreement will support the Ministry and will provide support to families living with disabilities in communities across Guyana,” it explained.
Across the region and in Guyana, the statement said, Digicel has been keen on developing sustainable programmes in areas like special needs, education and community development that impact key social and economic development markers.
“We have made a commitment to support the Ministry of Health as they strive to make a difference in the lives of the children and their care givers. This is a small step in a long term commitment, and it is envisioned that this project will continually enhance quality of life, and empower the people of the community and will provide a holistic approach to the well-being of families with special emphasis on health and education through various empowerment programmes,” Digicel Guyana Chief Executive Officer Gregory Dean said at the signing of the agreement on Tuesday.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health Malcolm Watkins, who signed the support agreement on behalf of the ministry, expressed gratitude to Digicel for this initiative, stating it is immeasurable. “We would like commit that this partnership will facilitate and foster long-term enhancements to the health sector. This partnership falls under the testament of the Ministry of Health’s comprehensive approach to health care and we intend to build and strengthen this partnership,” he said.
