The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) on Wednesday unveiled a number of plans and initiatives it is considering for its 2025 manifiesto. Many of these plans, taken from its first round of consultations, are aimed at unlocking revenue growth and economic opportunities for citizens.
A flyer was shared with stakeholders at the Ramada Princess Hotel about the plans under consideration, such as the establishment of a Development Bank geared towards financing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). In addition, the PPP wants to open up 100,000 acres of arable land for cultivation, and co-invest in agro-processing hubs and manufacturing ventures.
Some other highlights include:
• Constructing and upgrading farm-to-market roads
• Expanding D&l systems, including with the completion of the 3 new Hope-like systems
• Continuing direct support to farmers (planting material, breeding stock, fertilizer)
• Co-investing in agro-processing hubs, as well as ventures in the manufacturing and services sectors
Making more land available to small and medium-scale miners
• Maintaining a favourable fiscal regime, no increases in royalties, no tributors tax, and no VAT on heavy machinery
• Investing more in hinterland roads and airstrips to boost access for forestry and mining
• Working with investors to revitalise the bauxite industry and create jobs
• Reviewing the Local Content framework to create more opportunities for Guyanese businesses and nationals
• Introducing special financing window for women and persons with disabilities through the Development Bank
• Introducing dedicated support for persons with disabilities in health and education
• Creating job opportunities for persons with disabilities
• Expanding home-based healthcare services
• Creating opportunities for seniors in volunteerism, mentorship, and community projects
• Continuing salary increases for public sector employees
• Increasing Old Age and NIS pensions
• Increasing Public Assistance grants
• Providing additional cash grants to households and individuals
• Ensuring affordable electricity to all consumers
• Reducing the cost of cooking gas
• Continuing efforts to keep fuel prices low
• Expanding local farmers’ markets to reduce food prices
• Maintaining policies to keep interest rates low, especially for home ownership
Expanding Educational Opportunities
Beyond fueling jobs and improving livelihoods, the PPP plans to broaden educational opportunities to ensure greater empowerment of the people by equipping them with skills to increase their earning potential. The party has pledged “World-Class Education for All.”
Highlights in this regard include:
• Continuing free education at all levels
• Modernising school infrastructure and facilities
• Strengthening school management and accountability
• Rollout of Guyana Digital School initiative
• Using modern technology, including Artificial Intelligence, to personalise student assessment, content development, and teacher training
• Increasing the Because We Care cash grant
• Introducing new Transportation Support Grant for students
• Expanding the School Feeding Programme
• Expanding day and night care facilities and early childhood development services
• Modernising Technical and Vocational Education (TVET)
• Introducing civic education into the school system
