United Nations and University of Guyana Explore Sustainable Economic Pathways for Guyana

The United Nations and the University of Guyana jointly hosted a seminar on 15 October 2025 under the theme “The Guyanese Economy-Sustainable Economic Pathways.” The event highlighted the critical role of research, data and evidence in policymaking and in accelerating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The seminar brought together more than 120 participants from academia, the United Nations system, development partners and other stakeholders. Through research presentations and panel discussions, participants examined policy priorities and explored how evidence-based approaches can support inclusive and sustainable economic development in Guyana.

In opening remarks, University of Guyana Vice-Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin underscored the University’s responsibility to contribute to national policy through research and thought leadership. United Nations Resident Coordinator Ms. Jean Kamau highlighted Guyana’s rapid economic transformation and the opportunity to channel new resources toward sustainable and inclusive development. She emphasized the importance of research, data and academic partnerships in shaping effective policies and promoting intergenerational equity, in line with the UN’s Pact for the Future.

The morning session featured research presentations from University of Guyana faculty and graduate students, showcasing innovative approaches to using data and evidence for policy-relevant analysis. Ms. Debbie Hopkinson, Director of the Institute of Human Resiliency, Strategic Security and the Future, explored the role of athletics and leadership in national development and youth empowerment. Graduate student Ms. Annette Ferguson-Collins presented research on the effects of rapid population growth on housing demand and the expansion of informal settlements in Georgetown.

Dr. Norwell Hinds, Director of the Institute of Energy Diplomacy, shared research on energy vulnerability and the institutional dynamics of Guyana’s electricity system. Mr. Kelvin Bovell from the School of Executive Education examined how strengthened quality assurance frameworks could reduce attrition and dropout rates in higher education. Together, these presentations illustrated the breadth of research underway at the University of Guyana and its relevance for policymaking.

The afternoon session opened with a panel discussion on “Building a Resilient and Sustainable Economy – Key Structural and Policy Priorities.” Moderated by Mr. Andrew Hicks, Lecturer in the Department of Sociology, the panel featured Dr. Sydney Armstrong from the Department of Economics, Mr. Kadasi Ceres from the Department of Government and International Affairs, and Dr. Angelina Autar from the University of Guyana Berbice Campus. The discussion explored structural reforms and policy priorities needed to sustain long-term growth beyond oil and gas.

Panelists emphasized the importance of economic diversification, investment in human capital and strengthening financial systems while ensuring that economic gains are broadly shared to promote greater equality. They also highlighted the connection between Guyana’s economic trajectory and the global green transition, stressing the importance of participatory policy approaches that engage citizens, including those in hinterland and rural communities.

A second panel discussion focused on “Data and Research for Evidence-Based Policymaking – Gaps and Opportunities.” Moderated by Mr. Calvin Bernard, Director of the Institute for Marine and Riverine Ecologies and Economies, the panel included Professor Paulette Bynoe, Dean of the School of Graduate Studies and Research; Dr. Dianne Da Silva-Glasgow, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences; and Dr. Gyanpriya Maharaj, Director of the Centre for the Study of Biological Diversity.

Panelists examined how stronger data systems and institutional collaboration can enhance public policy effectiveness. They highlighted existing data gaps that limit monitoring of the SDGs and called for strengthened cooperation between government, academia and international partners to improve statistical capacity and access to reliable information. The discussion underscored the importance of fostering a culture of evidence-based policymaking to achieve sustainable development outcomes.

The seminar concluded with a shared recognition of the central role that research and data play in guiding policy choices and promoting equitable and sustainable development. Participants expressed strong interest in continued collaboration between the United Nations and the University of Guyana, noting that insights from the event will inform ongoing analytical work and contribute to shaping the next UN Multi Country Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework.

The discussions reaffirmed that effective policymaking, grounded in evidence and inclusive dialogue, is essential to ensuring that Guyana’s economic transformation translates into long-term prosperity for all.