The Honourable Dr. Frank Anthony, Minister of Health, today underscored Guyana’s commitment to advancing medical research and innovation as he addressed participants at the 18th Guyana Medical Research Conference, held at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre in Kingston.
The annual event brings together local and international researchers, academics, and healthcare professionals to share findings, exchange ideas, and strengthen scientific collaboration across the health sector.
In his keynote remarks, Minister Anthony emphasised that the conference serves as a crucial platform for developing evidence-based solutions tailored to Guyana’s health challenges.
“These conferences allow us to study our local setting and develop practical solutions that can inform health policy and improve delivery, we have already seen how past research findings have been applied to strengthen the health system, and this must continue.”
Minister Anthony outlined plans to create a biobank in Guyana to support genetic and tissue-based research, while encouraging greater use of artificial intelligence and computational biology in medical studies. The Minister also highlighted the Government’s new clinical trials legislation, which will establish a governance framework for ethically conducted trials within the country.
“Guyana has the potential to become a hub for medical innovation in the region,” Dr. Anthony said. “We must build institutions that not only deliver clinical excellence but also produce world-class discovery science.”
The Minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to expanding health infrastructure, developing new hospitals, and building capacity through research training and scholarships. He also called for stronger academic linkages between Guyanese and European universities to enhance local expertise.
Honourable Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony giving remarks at the 18th Guyana Medical Research Conference
Participants at 18th Guyana Medical Research Conference