Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan), through its Skills to Access the Green Economy (SAGE) program—a Government of Canada funded initiative—has teamed up with the Ministry of Human Services and Social Protection, the Guyana Women Miners Association, Conservation International Guyana, and the Guyana Mining School to launch a groundbreaking program aimed at empowering women in the mining industry.
The initiative, which will provide 15 women with National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ) in mining, is set to commence on September 2nd at the Guyana Mining School facility in Bartica. This partnership marks a significant step toward gender equality in a traditionally male-dominated sector. By equipping women with the necessary skills and knowledge, the program aims to create new opportunities for them in the mining industry while also promoting sustainable and responsible mining practices.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with these organizations to empower women in Guyana’s mining sector,” said Mr. Morrison, SAGE Country Support Coordinator Apprenticeship. “This program aligns perfectly with SAGE’s commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable education and training opportunities for vulnerable groups, including women.”
The NVQ course will cover a range of topics, including mining safety, environmental regulations, sustainability in mining, and practical mining techniques. Upon completion, participants will be equipped with the skills and qualifications needed to pursue careers in various roles within the mining industry.
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Protection has expressed strong support for the program, emphasizing its importance in addressing gender-based discrimination and promoting women’s economic empowerment. “This initiative is a testament to our government’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society,” said [Name], [Title] at the Ministry of Social Protection. “By providing women with the opportunity to participate in the mining industry, we are opening up new doors for their economic advancement.”
Conservation International Guyana, a leading global environmental organization, will also play a crucial role in the program by integrating aspects of environmental sustainability into the curriculum. The organization will provide training on responsible mining practices and the importance of protecting biodiversity.
The Guyana Mining School, a renowned institution in the country, will provide the necessary facilities and expertise to deliver the NVQ course. The school’s experienced instructors will guide participants through the practical and theoretical aspects of mining.
This pre-apprenticeship pilot is one of eight pre-apprenticeship/apprenticeship pilots supported by SAGE in the Caribbean and funded by the Government of Canada. Reports will be shared among the SAGE countries to highlight what an apprenticeship program should, and could, involve in the future. A detailed report with recommendations will be provided upon the completion of the SAGE program. “We are pleased that the program will be launched in Guyana and we are grateful for the partnership that has been developed. Apprenticeship is a partnership with industry as the main partner. We look forward to the pilot and the information that we gather that will assist Guyana in apprenticeship in the future,” said Pat Bidart, SAGE Senior Technical Advisor.
This partnership between the SAGE Program, the Ministry of Social Protection, the Women Miners Association, Conservation International, and the Guyana Mining School represents a promising step toward empowering women in the mining industry and promoting sustainable development in Guyana.
