Dear Editor,
Trying to register on the cash grant portal shows that Guyana is not fully digitally ready for an exercise of this magnitude on this platform. This has led to countless frustrations experienced by citizens. I spare a thought for those who are not digitally savvy, knowledgeable, or experienced in technology.
A number of issues are being encountered. The latest development in the list of frustrations I have heard relates to the matching or recognition of the National ID card photo and photos taken on the portal. Even though all questions have been checked off in this requirement, facial recognition is being rejected in some instances.
Now, the ID card was issued fifteen years ago. That photo and this portal photo must be different, as people’s features change with ageing and appearances evolve. The app, in some cases, is not recognising the ID card photo and portal photo as the same person. This has led to growing frustration among citizens.
It is unbelievable that the same ID photo was used and accepted at polling stations in the recent elections but cannot be accepted now. Furthermore, only last year, with the issuance of the cash grant, photographs were taken of citizens, either at the time of registering for the grant or receiving their check. Those photos must be in the system. Why can’t they be used for facial recognition and matching now? The Ministry has to do better.
It is noted how promptly central Government employees received their grant without going through the challenges and hassles other citizens are facing just to register in order to receive this benefit. Of course, calling the help desk numbers – well, that only adds to the frustration.