World-class oil and gas institute to be built in Guyana

The Government of Guyana has begun discussions to build a world-class oil and gas institute to train persons for the expanding petroleum sector.

This was revealed by President Irfaan Ali, during his feature address at the 25^th annual awards ceremony of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) on Wednesday afternoon.

“I assure you that we have commenced discussion on having a world-class, world [rated] oil and gas institute and training centre right here in Guyana and we will achieve it, we must achieve it,” the President said.

He added: “This will not only provide training for Guyanese but for human resources in the oil and gas sector from across the region.”

The President noted that of utmost importance in the years ahead, will be the nation’s ability to service the needs of the new economy.

As such, he noted that the government is “realigning educational output with the economic requirement.”

Dr Ali spoke of several transformative projects which will come on stream over the next five years. He said, “we will all be happy at what will unfold.”

Guyana began oil production in December 2019 from the Liza Phase 1 project in the Stabroek Block, offshore Guyana.

While the University of Guyana has sought to improve its capacity, there is a lack of adequate specialised courses.

Currently, ExxonMobil –the major player in the local oil and gas industry –sends its workers overseas to undergo training.

Despite low oil prices fueled by the COVID-19 pandemic, works have not ceased on the Stabroek block which has an estimated eight billion barrels of oil recoverable resources. (Bibi Khatoon)