Human Services and Social Ministry to become fully digitised

The Human Services and Social Ministry has developed an advanced new software platform called the Beneficiary Registry and Document Management System (BRDMS) as part of its efforts to become a fully digitalised agency.

According to a release, the software was developed through a partnership with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and Synergy International Systems Inc. Once operational, it will streamline application processes, shorten response times, and ensure the security of applicants’ information.

To facilitate familiarisation with the software and ensure a smooth implementation phase later this year, the ministry conducted an intensive two-week training session for its staff. This training was carried out in phases, with Programme One focused on policy development and administration, Programme Two covering the delivery of essential social services—including old-age pensions, public assistance, domestic violence support, anti-trafficking initiatives, and the management of various care facilities under the ministry’s jurisdiction—and Programme Three dedicated to the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA).

Subject Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud highlighted the transformative potential of the BRDMS in enhancing the ministry’s ability to serve the public. She stated that the BRDMS should be utilised meaningfully and purposefully, as it is transitioning the ministry from a paper-based system to an entirely digital one. She emphasised that this was a significant step and should not be taken lightly, as it integrates the ministry’s services into the social security networks of society.

The minister further noted that the BRDMS serves as an anti-poverty mapping tool, identifying individuals across the country and providing services to them in a way that ensures service delivery is neither an exercise in futility nor a source of frustration.

Regarding data protection, the ministry has assured the public that, with the recently passed Data Protection Act, all data entered into the system will be safeguarded, fostering trust and transparency in its operations.

IDB Country Representative Lorena Salazar emphasised the significance of this initiative, explaining that it is not just about implementing a new system but about laying the foundation for a more responsive and effective way of delivering services for the people of Guyana.

Meanwhile, Hayk Vardanyan, a representative from Synergy International Systems, explained the technical aspects of the BRDMS, detailing the ongoing process of migrating the ministry’s vast data onto the new system. He noted that, once fully operational, the BRDMS would support over 50 social services provided by the ministry.

Notably, the new system will shift the focus from an individual-based model of service delivery to a household-centric approach, ensuring a more comprehensive and efficient allocation of resources.

Minister Persaud and other officials with facilitators and participants at the training