"No Excuses" for Learning Materials Access, says Education Minister Priya Manickchand 

Guyana’s Education Minister, Priya Manickchand, recently emphasized the availability of learning resources as a key driver for educational improvement. Speaking at Charity Secondary School on the Essequibo Coast, she announced a new Mathematics Intervention Programme aimed at boosting national math pass rates from 31% to 45-50% at the CSEC level. The initiative includes bi-weekly math lessons on the Guyana Learning Channel, diagnostic tests, and a math hotline. Manickchand underlined that success hinges on parents' active involvement, urging them to prioritize their children’s education by using these resources. The program, especially beneficial for rural areas lacking private tutoring options, is expected to improve educational outcomes and ensure equal access to quality education nationwide.

Silica City’s First 110 Homes Near Completion, Reflecting Guyana’s Ambitious Urban Growth 

Minister within the Ministry of Housing, Susan Rodrigues, announced that Phase One of Silica City’s housing project, featuring 110 homes, is 50% complete. Located along the Soesdyke/Linden Highway, the development has seen infrastructure elements like road networks and utility installations finalized. The new units offer a modern, spacious design to suit young professionals and families. Part of President Irfaan Ali’s vision, Silica City is set to be an eco-friendly urban hub by 2030, focusing on climate resilience, food security, and advanced digital infrastructure, supporting Guyana’s goal for sustainable urban expansion amidst climate challenges.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Small Enterprises (SMEs)

1. Educational Tutoring and Support Services

   • Opportunity: With the Education Ministry’s focus on raising math pass rates, small businesses can provide in-person or online tutoring services, especially targeting rural areas that lack resources.

   • Notes: Offering specialized tutoring for subjects like mathematics can meet a rising demand, with additional revenue opportunities by partnering directly with schools or parents.

2. Meal and Catering Services for Oko West Workforce

   • Opportunity: With the Oko West project employing 1,500 people, there’s a need for accessible food options near the site.

   • Notes: Local catering services can offer meal plans and delivery options, focusing on convenience and quality to appeal to the workforce.

3. Specialty Food and Beverage Stands at Local Events

   • Opportunity: Events like the ENET Caribbean Clash of Champions create demand for on-site food and beverage vendors.

   • Notes: Offering unique or local flavors at popular events could attract a steady flow of customers, allowing small businesses to build brand visibility.

Medium Enterprises (MEs)

1. Workforce Training and Skill Development for Mining Sector

   • Opportunity: With a major mining workforce expansion, there’s a clear need for vocational training and upskilling services, especially in Region Seven.

   • Notes: Partnering with G Mining Ventures and local government to provide safety, equipment handling, and first aid training can secure repeat business.

2. Logistics and Transportation for Oko West

   • Opportunity: Medium enterprises can provide transportation solutions, moving employees and materials efficiently to and from the project site.

   • Notes: Focusing on reliable service for daily commutes could develop into long-term contracts, particularly with growing mining operations.

3. Event Management for Sports and Community Events

   • Opportunity: With an uptick in large-scale events, medium enterprises could handle logistics, coordination, and hospitality setups.

   • Notes: Developing VIP zones, merchandise booths, and hospitality services for events could establish a consistent revenue stream in the entertainment sector.

Large Enterprises (LEs)

1. Infrastructure Development for Mining and Energy Projects

   • Opportunity: As the Oko West project scales, large construction firms have opportunities in building accommodations, offices, and transport infrastructure.

   • Notes: Winning long-term construction contracts could create stable revenue, with additional demand for maintenance services.

2. Renewable Energy Solutions for Large-Scale Mining

   • Opportunity: Large enterprises can provide green energy solutions, such as solar or hybrid systems, supporting eco-friendly operations in mining and oil.

   • Notes: Offering renewable energy installations can attract environmentally conscious corporations, with potential for high-value, ongoing service contracts.

3. Comprehensive Logistics and Supply Chain Management

   • Opportunity: With the need for equipment and supply movement, large logistics firms can manage warehousing, transport, and supply chains for mining and energy sectors.

   • Notes: Providing end-to-end logistics solutions could make the business a preferred partner in a rapidly growing market, leveraging operational expertise to secure long-term contracts.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Digital Marketplace for Educational Materials and Tutoring Services

• Opportunity: With the Education Ministry focusing on math and other subject pass rates, there’s a high demand for educational resources. A digital marketplace could allow teachers, tutors, and even talented students to offer lesson plans, notes, video tutorials, and one-on-one tutoring sessions.

• How It Works: Users can upload or offer services such as digital worksheets, recorded video lessons, or live tutoring. Small subscription fees or one-time charges could make this profitable and accessible to families and students across Guyana.

• Value: This venture can be managed online, making it a flexible side hustle that builds on Guyana’s need for accessible education, especially in rural areas.

2. Event Pop-Up Vendor for Sports and Community Events

• Opportunity: Guyana’s sports and community event scene is growing, as seen with major gatherings like the ENET Caribbean Clash of Champions. A pop-up stand or mobile cart offering locally-made snacks, drinks, or unique items like artisanal crafts could tap into these large crowds.

• How It Works: Start small with a setup that can travel to various events. Key items could include coconut water, freshly made snacks, or tropical cocktails/mocktails using local ingredients. Custom-branded merchandise like T-shirts or hats also have potential.

• Value: This side hustle requires minimal initial investment, is easy to scale, and benefits from the excitement around events. With strategic branding, it could become a recognizable part of the local events circuit.

3. Digital Content Creation and Marketing for Small Businesses

• Opportunity: With many small businesses needing an online presence in a rapidly digitizing market, there’s a demand for part-time digital marketers and content creators. This role could involve creating social media posts, running ad campaigns, or offering basic photography and video services.

• How It Works: For those with skills in social media, graphic design, or simple video editing, offering these services on weekends or in the evenings could bring in additional income. Small businesses often prefer contracting individuals over agencies, so this can be done flexibly.

• Value: With minimal overhead, this is a high-value, skills-based hustle that leverages the digital shift happening across sectors in Guyana. Content creation for local businesses could also open doors to further opportunities as digital marketing continues to grow in the region.