The Social Insurance Bank (SVB) has expanded its community outreach by launching a service kiosk/portal at MFA Paradera. The initiative is specifically tailored for pensioners, future retirees, and senior citizens seeking information or assistance regarding SVB services.
The official opening was attended by Prime Minister Mike Eman, Minister of Public Health, Social Affairs, Senior Care, and Addiction Policy Mervin Wyatt-Ras, and SVB Director Edwin Jacobs.
The Paradera facility builds upon the successful implementation at MFA Noord, where a similar service was recently introduced. This initiative aligns with the institution’s strategic vision to decentralize SVB services, seamlessly integrating digital channels with personalized in-person support.
During the event, Prime Minister Eman noted that while digital transformation offers significant opportunities and progress, it is vital to account for citizens who may be less familiar with digital environments, particularly senior citizens.
According to the Prime Minister, the solution lies in bringing public services directly into local neighborhoods, maintaining opportunities for citizens to engage directly with staff who can guide and assist them. The launch of the Paradera kiosk represents a key step forward in this initiative.
Minister Mervin Wyatt-Ras emphasized the critical importance of accessible services for the elderly population. He highlighted that pensioners can obtain information and support at MFA Paradera, while individuals approaching retirement age can proactively seek guidance regarding their rights, pension status, and the necessary steps for retirement planning.
Establishing this service within the MFA framework also serves a vital social purpose: integrating public administration into a familiar, local venue where residents can resolve administrative matters while maintaining social connections within their community.
SVB Director Edwin Jacobs emphasized the significance of the Paradera launch, noting the institution’s commitment to bringing pension-related matters closer to the public. Community engagement was high: approximately 65 individuals registered within a short timeframe, out of an expected turnout of nearly 250 current and future pensioners during the event.
Jacobs underscored that while digital services are central to modernizing the SVB, direct personal interaction remains indispensable for preserving an inclusive and accessible social security system for all citizens.
In addition to the digital portal, an SVB representative will be stationed at MFA Paradera once a week to assist the public, provide information, and guide citizens in navigating the digital tools.
Following the launches at MFA Noord and Paradera, the model is scheduled for roll-out in additional districts. According to Jacobs, Santa Cruz is next on the schedule, followed by Savaneta, and eventually MFA San Nicolas, progressively widening SVB’s presence across the island.
Through the opening at MFA Paradera, the Government and SVB continue to advance their commitment to bringing public services closer to the community, balancing digital innovation with dedicated personal care for those who need it most.
