IGSS organizes educational event on social security for graduating students

The Guatemalan Social Security Institute (IGSS) recently held an event called “Cultura IGSS para Graduandos” for students who are about to graduate and are currently doing their professional internships. The event aimed to promote a culture of social security awareness among future professionals.

Silvia Arrué Gómez, administrative chief of the Department of Human Resource Management and Planning, opened the session by highlighting the importance of encouraging social security knowledge during academic training. More than 250 students participated, including interns from the Attorney General's Office (PGN), IGSS nursing assistants, and other interns working at Central Offices.

Participants engaged in a question-and-answer session with trainers to clarify their doubts about social security. The topics discussed included medical benefits, economic benefits, disease prevention, and labor rights. The program had a practical and educational focus designed to help students as they prepare to enter the workforce.

Oliver Josué Aroche Álvarez, Central Therapeutic Director, explained health protection and described IGSS’s various healthcare models such as hospital services, home care, dentistry, rehabilitation, and pharmacy services. He emphasized the importance of immunization throughout life stages and referenced maternity programs and kangaroo care methods. He stated that prevention is central to these efforts.

Hamilton Torres Arreaga from the Submanagement of Economic Benefits presented information about the Disability, Old Age, and Survivorship Program (IVS). He explained how pensions work under this program and outlined eligibility requirements.

Glendy Barrondo, inspector of Safety and Hygiene, discussed workplace risk prevention and encouraged safe work environments.

Gary Reyes, head of Training and Development Department, invited students to continue their education through the FÓRMATE platform. Carlos Franco Antonio, Deputy Manager of Planning and Development, concluded by emphasizing IGSS’s commitment to training new generations and strengthening citizens’ understanding of their rights and responsibilities related to social security.