Guyana launches 1st 3D digital design lab at GTI

Guyana has taken a significant step in modernising technical education with the official commissioning of the Karpowership-GTI AutoCAD Technology Lab at the Government Technical Institute (GTI). The new facility replaces traditional manual drafting tools with 26 high-performance workstations equipped with specialised Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software, enabling students to move from 2D sketches to complex 3D models.

The lab, a product of a strategic partnership between the Ministry of Education and Karpowership, aims to bridge the gap between classroom learning and industrial application. It is expected to equip a new generation of local engineers and architects with the practical skills needed for Guyana’s expanding infrastructure, energy, and industrial sectors. Speaking at the launch, Americas Regional Director of Commercial Operations at Karpowership, Beyza Özdemir, highlighted the company’s commitment to supporting education and skills development. “By providing essential technology, we aim to help students develop practical skills that can support their future careers,” she said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Education Officer (Technical), Dr Ritesh Tularam, described the lab as opening “doors to imagination, precision and professional opportunity,” noting that AutoCAD serves as “the backbone of modern engineering.” He emphasised the importance of maintaining the facility to ensure students could make meaningful contributions to their communities and the nation.
The commissioning ceremony included a ribbon-cutting and guided tour of the new workstations, marking the lab as a hub for innovation and technical excellence. Observers say the initiative positions Guyana’s technical education system to produce professionals capable of leading the country’s ambitious development projects. By integrating 3D digital design into the curriculum, the lab represents a landmark shift in vocational training, moving students beyond traditional methods and preparing them for the demands of modern industry. The facility is seen as a model for how public-private collaboration can align education with the needs of the 21st-century workforce.