Ministry hails indigenous peoples on 17th international day

The Ministry of Amerindian Affairs says despite the challenges it will continue to foster partnerships with local indigenous communities for their economic advancement, as indigenous peoples worldwide celebrate their 17th International Day.

In a press release the ministry said Guyana is home to about 70, 000 indigenous people –  about 10% of its total population – who contribute to its education, economic, social and cultural development. It noted that because indigenous communities have a unique way of life, government continues to formulate policies and programmes aimed at alleviating poverty and Amerindian integration into mainstream society without compromising their culture.

According to the ministry, Amerindians today have better access to education through the construction of schools in villages and the