Berbice Youths educated on benefits of the oil and gas industry
DPI, Guyana, Saturday, July 27, 2019
The Ministry of the Presidency, Department of Energy (DE), took its interactive session to the Upper Corentyne area where several students from the Upper Corentyne Industrial Training Centre (UCITC) were educated on the oil and gas sector and the potential impact and transformation it will have on the economy.
Sharon Patterson, Office Manager, the Ministry of the Presidency – Department of Energy.
Office Manager at DE, Sharon Patterson, explained that through these interactive sessions the government aims to improve the level of awareness among Guyanese about the oil and gas sector and what it has to offer; sensitize citizens especially young persons about the opportunities in the sector; the necessary requirements for participation, and the benefits that can be derived from the sector.
Patterson also noted the forum provides an opportunity for participants to actively engage in the discussions and decision-making process to position themselves to benefit from the sector.
“We want to be able to provide information and sensitise persons regardless if it’s young people, the RDC or religious groups. We want to provide information on the sector and what it offers. Additionally, we want to make persons aware of the opportunities that exist within and beyond the sector, benefits that can be derived and our aim is to provide an opportunity for participants to directly be involved in the discussions of oil and gas, ask questions which we respond to so we can create a better awareness of the sector”.
She noted that at the end of 2018, more than 54% of persons directly employed in the oil and gas sector are Guyanese and the administration is currently working to increase the number to 75% by the end of 2020. Patterson pointed out that 25 persons were trained to work on the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel- the Liza Destiny.
Meanwhile, C-TVET Director Floyd Scott addressed the gathering on skill preparedness for Guyana’s development. He spoke of the immense job opportunities that will become available but underscored for persons to tap into those opportunities they must understand that standards are required, as such, training and certification is vital.
Dinesh Manick 18, who is currently pursuing studies in Welding and Fabrication at the UCITC, related that he had no prior knowledge of the industry but after listening to the various presentations feels motivated.
“I want to continue to work harder to reach the standards that are required. It lets me know what is going on in my country. I am proud to hear that young Guyanese are being employed and to learn of the many opportunities that lie ahead for my country. When I am finished with my studies, I plan to follow their footsteps and also hopefully be employed with one of the major companies.”
Asif Bacchus, 20, another student of UCITC, relayed that following the interactive session he feels, “…more empowered. I knew a little about the sector but after being informed I am leaving here feeling empowered and with plans to work in the industry in the future.”