Seize ‘era of opportunity’ as skills shortages drive premium earnings -Min. Singh’s message to young people
Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh has said that today’s young Guyanese are the most fortunate generation the country has ever produced, as rapid economic growth creates unprecedented opportunities across every sector, but only for those prepared to invest in skills, adapt, and excel.
Speaking on the issue, the minister stressed that personal liberty remains a core principle of the government, noting that how individuals choose to spend their disposable income is ultimately their own decision. However, he argued that Guyana is now firmly in an “era of opportunity” that will continue as the economy expands, making it critical for young people to think carefully about how they position themselves.
He said the current generation of young Guyanese is uniquely advantaged, urging them to identify what they enjoy doing, what they are good at, and what they can realistically commit to long-term. Preparation, he noted, may involve acquiring new skills, taking interim jobs, and saving income to invest in future goals.
A key theme of his remarks was adaptability. He cautioned that careers will not always unfold as planned, and young people must be willing to change course without viewing early setbacks as failure. In a fast-evolving economy, flexibility and agility are essential traits for long-term success.
The minister also pointed to Guyana’s growing presence on the global stage, where visibility is higher than ever and standards matter. He emphasised that building a strong reputation through consistent excellence is increasingly important, regardless of profession.
According to him, it now “almost doesn’t matter” what field a person chooses, once the work is done well. From hospitality workers and artisans to engineers, drivers, and creative professionals, those who excel and build a reputation for quality will find themselves in demand.
He noted that Guyana is already struggling to find enough skilled workers, particularly plumbers, electricians, and other tradespeople, due to surging demand driven by development activity. This shortage, he said, is creating premium earnings for those with recognised skills and a solid work ethic.
The message to young people, he concluded, is simple: excel at whatever you choose to do, build a reputation for doing it well, and the opportunities- and financial rewards- will follow.
