Dear Editor,
Guyana’s economy is booming, yet one of its greatest resources remains under-used—its human resource, especially its women and young families. As the government grapples with labour short-ages severe enough to consider importing workers, it’s time to recognize that the country’s workforce challenge is not just about skills or migration. It is about care—child care. Every day, thousands of capable parents stay home or accept part-time, low-paying jobs simply because they have no affordable, reliable child care options. For them, participation in Guyana’s growing economy remains out of reach. Creating a universal child care programme is not merely a social policy; it is an economic imperative that can unlock a vast pool of talent and drive a new wave of inclusive growth.
This is not uncharted territory. Around the world, progressive economies have discovered that investing in universal child care produces lasting dividends. In New Mexico, USA, for instance, families now save the equivalent of roughly G$2.5 million a year through free access to licensed child care. The ripple effects are remarkable—more parents reenter the workforce, small businesses thrive with steadier staff, and children start life with stronger foundations as a result of earlier social integration in a structured environment. Guyana can replicate and even improve on this success. Instead of inculcating a welfare mentality with childcare grants, a phased approach could begin with regional pilot programmes, drawing on partnerships among the state, local government, and private employers. Companies could receive tax breaks or recognition for contributing facilities or funding, while the government guarantees standards, training, and equitable access.
Technical institutes could be engaged to train early childhood educators, creating new careers and boosting youth employment. In short, we would be creating jobs while enabling more people to work—a win-win for national development. This initiative would not only help families save money; it would also turn the child care sector into a dynamic part of the economy. More importantly, it would send a clear message that Guyana’s future prosperity depends on supporting its families, not sidelining them. Our leaders now face a choice: continue debating labour importation, or take a bold step toward empowering the workers already here. Universal child care is not charity—it’s smart economics. It is the backbone of a modern, equitable workforce strategy and the key to ensuring that Guyana’s prosperity lifts every home, every community, and every child.