PPC’s Open Day in Mabaruma Engages Suppliers, Contractors, and Procuring Entities, Strengthening Procurement Understanding with 102 Attendees

Dec 12, 2024

PRESS RELEASE

PPC’s Open Day in Mabaruma Engages Suppliers, Contractors, and Procuring Entities, Strengthening Procurement Understanding with 102 Attendees

 

On December 3, 2024, the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) hosted a highly successful Open Day event at the National Agriculture Research Extension Center, Kumaka Waterfront, Mabaruma, Region 1. This initiative brought together 102 participants, comprising 32 suppliers, 19 contractors, 28 representatives from procuring entities, and 23 members of the general public, all eager to learn about and enhance their understanding of procurement processes.

The event was graced by Regional Executive Officer (REO) Mr. Sewchand and his staff, who actively engaged with the PPC team to discuss procurement priorities for the Barima-Waini region. Mr. Sewchand emphasized the importance of promoting a transparent procurement system, as the region undergoes significant transformation.

Designed to promote awareness of the PPC’s roles and responsibilities, the Open Day aimed to deepen understanding and ensure compliance with procurement processes, especially in remote areas. Attendees participated in interactive sessions, accessed educational materials, and engaged in meaningful discussions with PPC representatives including the PPC staff, including Mr. Michael Singh Chief Executive Officer, Attorney-at-Law, Training Officer, Civil Engineer, and Procurement Specialists. The event included interactive sessions, information booths, and Q&A discussions, offering participants valuable insights into essential topics such as:

  • The Public Procurement Commission: Who we are and what we do
  • The Public Procurement Process
  • Tendering Tips
  • Compliance
  • Debarment

The Public Open Day was more than an educational event—it was a platform for meaningful dialogue. Representatives from the public and private sectors, along with community members, and procuring entities engaged in discussions that highlighted unique challenges and opportunities in procurement within Region 1. The inclusion of information booths and Q&A sessions allowed attendees to seek clarification, fostering an environment of open communication and collaboration.

Participants lauded the interactive and insightful sessions, which offered clarity on bidding, evaluation criteria, and legal matters such as compliance and debarment. These sessions also tackled critical concepts, including bid and performance security, variation orders, and tendering tips, providing participants with tools to effectively navigate procurement processes while addressing regional developmental needs.

Participants expressed particular appreciation for the tailored sessions and materials, which demystified complex procurement topics. Suppliers and contractors noted that the event empowered them to participate more confidently in the public procurement process, while representatives from procuring entities acknowledged its role in promoting transparency and accountability.

This initiative is part of the PPC’s ongoing public awareness campaign to educate stakeholders about the rules, procedures, and special requirements of the public procurement system. By fostering transparency, fairness, and efficiency, the PPC is empowering stakeholders to navigate and benefit from the procurement process effectively.

The PPC remains committed to its constitutional mandate under Section 212AA (1)(b) of the Constitution of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, Cap. 1:01, to promote awareness of procurement practices among suppliers, contractors, and public entities.

For further information, please contact the PPC via telephone at (592) 226-3729, (592) 231-7306, or (592) 226-2364, or email at operations@ppc.org.gy.

December 11, 2024

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