A new session of the National Assembly commenced in Guyana on Thursday, during which President Dr. Irfaan Ali unveiled an array of measures and policies designed to lay the foundation for the “Vision 2030” initiative being championed by the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government, ahead of the upcoming general elections next year.
In a comprehensive presentation to the Assembly, President Ali outlined ambitious plans for fostering a digital economy, emphasizing that this initiative represents a shift toward a modern economy distinct from those of previous generations. He articulated a vision for a “smart and agile economy,” which aims to deliver a wide range of services and enhance efficiency across various sectors.
The Vision 2030 framework envisions a “dynamic society” in which a significant number of citizens actively contribute to the socio-economic development of Guyana. Ali’s proposals reflect a commitment to innovation and modernization, positioning the country to capitalize on emerging opportunities and drive sustainable growth in the years to come.
Ali said that the first-ever Guyana Digital School will soon be established as part of national plans to create a fully functional digital economy,
“The digital school will be resourced like any brick and mortar facility, with the added benefit of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support learning,” Ali said, noting that the school will cover nursery education all the way to Grade 12 and that tutors will be part of the venture to support teaching Guyana’s curriculum.
But he said there will also be a focus on nursing, accounting, entrepreneurship and remedial education in the evenings as well as various extracurricular activities to be done via the online platform.
“In fulfilling our promise of ensuring that our propensity redounds to the prosperity of the region, this Guyana Digital School will also be available for CARICOM citizens,” he said.
Ali said the government hopes to vastly transform service delivery through this ongoing digital transformation, telling legislators, “We want to lead efforts in the delivery of effective, secure government services across every sector and to mitigate the risks of being left behind.”
Ali said he was looking forward to a new Guyana that would require all persons coming together “requiring a new thinking…hard work and faith in the government and people we serve”.
Ali, who addressed the National Assembly for the second time since assuming office in 2020, told legislators, who had been on recess since August, that every household across Guyana will receive a one- off GUY$200,000 (One Guyana dollar=US$0.004 cents) cash grant this year and that distribution is expected to commence instantly.
He said that the grant is part of the government’s determination at reducing disparities in the country and guaranteeing that the people of Guyana have more disposable income.
He told legislators that altogether, it is expected that about GUY$60 billion will be infused into the economy through this cash grant.
