At the final day of the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo made a powerful statement: “There is no restriction on the amount of money we will spend on educating our people.” This declaration resonates deeply, as it speaks to a crucial element of Guyana’s development —investing in education to upskill and empower the population.
In a candid exchange with students at the student forum on Friday, Dr Jagdeo addressed questions on a variety of topics, from educational initiatives to environmental concerns, further reinforcing the Government’s dual focus on human capital and sustainable growth. He offered a clear vision of a future wherein Guyanese are not only beneficiaries of the country’s growing energy sector, but are also active participants that are equipped with the knowledge and skills to thrive in it.
Dr Jagdeo’s emphasis on education is timely. As Guyana stands on the cusp of an economic boom, driven largely by its burgeoning oil and gas sector, the need for an educated and skilled workforce is paramount. The Vice President highlighted a number of Government-led initiatives aimed at ensuring that members of the workforce are not only adequately prepared, but are also continuously supported throughout their educational journey.
The Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) programme is one such initiative that stands as a beacon of opportunity. With over 20,000 scholarships on offer, GOAL has the potential to transform the lives of many young Guyanese, opening doors to higher education and specialised training. This programme is part of a broader push to make education accessible to all, breaking down barriers that once limited opportunities for young people across the nation.
In addition to GOAL, the Government has rolled out programmes such as the Get Ready for Opportunities to Work (GROW) and various training initiatives through the Board of Industrial Training (BIT). These are designed to directly address the demand for skilled workers in sectors critical to Guyana’s development, particularly in the energy industry. Whether it’s through technical training or university-level scholarship, these programmes are designed to equip students with the necessary skills to take advantage of the job opportunities emerging in the country.
It’s clear that Government views education as a strategic investment in the nation’s future. As Dr. Jagdeo pointed out, the amount of money allocated for education is limitless, signalling the Government’s recognition of the transformative power of knowledge. This bold approach to funding education is commendable, particularly as it seeks to ensure that the benefits of the country’s economic growth are felt by all Guyanese, not just those in urban centres or already in high-demand industries.
Equally important, however, is the government’s ongoing effort to improve the public education system. The Vice President informed students about the substantial investments being made to improve every public school in the country. This focus on infrastructure, alongside the Government’s commitment to upskilling the workforce, underscores the broader vision of building a society in which education is not just a pathway to employment, but a foundation for long-term, sustainable development.
Beyond the immediate realm of education and employment, Dr. Jagdeo also addressed the Government’s environmental policies, which are increasingly crucial as Guyana grows in economic power. With the expansion of the oil and gas sector, questions surrounding the environmental impact of this rapid growth are inevitable. Dr. Jagdeo’s remarks point to the Government’s dedication to good environmental management, acknowledging the need to balance economic development with ecological sustainability. This commitment to the environment is vital, not only for future generations, but also in ensuring that the growth of Guyana remains responsible and resilient.
Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo’s remarks at the student forum exemplify the advanced approach to nation-building. By continuing to allocate substantial resources towards education, Government is not just preparing the workforce of today, but is also ensuring that the next generation is equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow – human potential that should be celebrated and supported by all sectors of society.
