Creating opportunities for trained artists to earn exposure and put their skills to work must accompany investment in creative arts education, Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Steven Jacobs said on Thursday evening.
He was addressing the Institute of Creative Arts’ (ICA) graduation ceremony at the National Cultural Centre, where its 10th cohort celebrated completing studies in dance, visual arts, music and theatre, including associate degree programmes.
“It’s not just only the government facilitating courses, facilitating the growth of a diploma or certificate. It’s making sure after that the opportunity is there for you to showcase your talents,” Jacobs told the gathering.
The Minister pointed to Live Art on Main Street as one initiative giving local artists public exposure. He also identified Guyana’s hosting of CARIFESTA in 2027 as another opportunity for Guyanese creatives to participate in cultural productions alongside their regional counterparts.
Jacobs said consultations with stakeholders are underway to help shape the country’s orange economy, which encompasses the creative and cultural industries.
For the graduates, the ceremony marked both personal achievements and new possibilities for pursuing careers in the arts.
Theatre arts and drama valedictorian Latifa Agard, who previously completed certificate programmes in dance and theatre with distinction, said the advanced training broadened her understanding of theatrical production.
“What began as a diploma pathway developed into an opportunity to achieve something historic, becoming the first to earn an associate degree in theatre arts and drama with distinction right here in Guyana,” Agard said.
She called for the creative arts to be treated as a profession deserving of investment, continued training and national support.
Meanwhile, Burrowes School of Art graduate Joanna Edwards reflected on balancing her studies with motherhood and full-time work as a secondary school teacher.
Crediting her family and instructors with helping her complete the programme, Edwards encouraged fellow graduates to produce bold, meaningful work as they move into the next stage of their careers.
