As billions of dollars in public and private investments continue to reshape Region Three, business leaders say the next priority must be ensuring local entrepreneurs are equipped to seize the growing opportunities.
Following a business engagement at the Leonora Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Centre, Secretary of the Region Three Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Bibi Meligat, said opportunities are emerging across virtually every sector as development accelerates.
“Every sector has really expanded, there’s a wide amount of things from construction to tourism. There is room for everyone to get engaged,” she said.
While opportunities are increasing, Meligat said many small and medium-sized businesses still need the skills, knowledge and best practices required to compete for larger projects.
She explained that the Chamber is focused on connecting businesses with government agencies and development partners, but believes more regular training programmes should be offered within Region Three instead of requiring entrepreneurs to travel to Georgetown.
“How we get to bring our business there is really through training and getting our people more involved into the culture of adopting best practices,” she said.
According to Meligat, the government’s investments in infrastructure, including the new Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge, are opening the region to greater commercial activity, making it even more important for local businesses to be ready to expand alongside the economy.
She said bringing training directly to Region Three would remove barriers for entrepreneurs while encouraging greater participation.
“We would like to have training more regularly and get it in Region Three to facilitate that journey and make it more motivational for persons to come and be a part of this [development],” she said.
Executive member of the Chamber and owner of Smart Learning Guyana, Khaimwatie Seenarine during an interview with the News Room.
Executive member of the Chamber and owner of Smart Learning Guyana, Khaimwatie Seenarine, echoed those sentiments, encouraging more businesses to become involved with the Chamber and position themselves for future opportunities.
She said the Chamber has provided valuable guidance and access to information that has helped businesses navigate the changing economic landscape.
“I like to advocate for Region Three because I feel that the attention was way too long on Region Four. We cannot sit and wait. We have to be brave and get on board. The right time is now, the opportunity is there, you just have to be present… we will lend support in information, advice and guiding businesses,” she said.
Businesses interested in joining the Chamber can visit: https://share.google/qjYTDeddcclPOpafR
 

Source link