MACORP, Govt partner to widen online technician training

Machinery Corporation of Guyana Limited (MACORP) on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Public Telecommunications Ministry to improve linkages of the company’s Technicians for the Caribbean training course to youths across the country.

The training was launched in May through partnership with the Caterpillar brand, enabling persons to acquire a technician certificate that is internationally recognised. It is free of cost and can be accessed through any internet-connected device.
Chief Executive Officer of MACORP, Guillermo Escarraga explained that they would have sought to include other stakeholders in the programme to which the Ministry indicated interest. This was after recognising its potential to create a skilled workforce.
“The objective of the programme is to provide vocational opportunities to the youths and basically anyone who is eager to start a technical career. The programme is available online and is free of cost, becoming a great opportunity for development.
Meanwhile, Public Telecommunications Minister, Cathy Hughes explained that persons can access this training via the Information Communication Technology (ICT) hubs that were established in various villages across the country. She also noted the importance of possessing a skill.
“We’re encouraging individuals, especially young people who might be unemployed, to be able to use the facility and we have been pushing how important it is education is. We have made an important match between online learning, using technology to enhance educational opportunities and in turn, the value of an individual and their skills,” Hughes highlighted.
Hughes acknowledged the possible job opportunities which exist after completing the course. This includes a chance to work for MACORP, an internationally-recognised industrial company.
“After a period of a year of being on this programme, you also have an opportunity to be brought on to the internship and the work-study programme that MACORP offers. It has the possibility for you to join an exciting team.”
Escarraga had pointed out during the launching that the organisation has physically trained some 400 technicians over the years. It has been some 25 years since MACORP established operations in Guyana, offering employment to scores of persons. With this online certification, one can obtain a job in any region of the world.
“At the end of this programme, every single student will receive a certification of completion. This certification is valid throughout the world. If you have one of this certification, you can go anywhere in the world. Hopefully, those that complete this programme will stay in the region and in Guyana,” said Escarraga.
He added, “Now is the time. We have been talking about Guyana developing and opportunity and potential but we have not materialised. This is the time. MACORP has played an integral role in the development of a skilled workforce.”
The online training was the first of its kind in the world and can be completed in just a few months. There are different levels which can be pursued for further advancements in the technical field.