The University of Guyana delivers an output of approximately 2000 graduands annually and there is always the hue and cry of insufficient job opportunities for these persons.
President David Granger
In fact, it has been said that the programmes being offered at the country’s premier tertiary education facility does not match the skills demanded by the country’s economy.
To this end, President David Granger is calling on the institution to be more considerate of Guyana’s needs and to design their programmes accordingly.
“The University (of Guyana) itself must understand the needs of the country. Yes we need lawyers, yes we need people in the (social sector) but they must take a holistic view at Guyana’s needs over the next 10-20 years. (The University of Guyana) must take a strategic look at Guyana’s educational needs and direct their resources there,” he stated during The Public Interest programme, which was aired on Friday.
According to the Head of State, he does not want a weak Science or Engineering faculty, but needs strength there. The President noted that the University should undertake a study on the needs of the country and advise government accordingly so that steps can be taken to ensure that the local populace is equipped to fulfil the demands of the country.
“It is an issue and young people, in their choice of subjects, must articulate their career objectives or desires so that we can have a university which is more responsive to their needs as persons, as well as to the national needs in terms of development,” he noted.
In this regard, Granger noted that the matter needs to be worked out by the University of Guyana’s Council and the Education Ministry, along with staff and students of the university.
“I don’t believe it’s a settled matter and we need to decide as a country what type of a university we are going to have,” he stated.
On the other hand, the President outlined that his administration is going to do its part with much emphasis on the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). He noted that even at the level of the National Grade Six Assessment, it can be seen that such an approach has proven beneficial.
“We will be directing more funds and more resources to those subjects. Those are subjects which Guyana needs – it’s to developing our hinterland, it’s not develop mining, it’s to develop our natural resources and there needs to be a shift of focus,” he posited.
Moreover, the President explained that options remain available for students to choose their career paths, which is most likely in the humanity and social sciences or natural sciences. However, he recognises that these fields more often do not offer employment in the job market. (Vahnu Manickchand)
