In a bold move to address the low participation of Guyanese in the maritime industry, the government has announced plans to establish a Maritime Academy aimed at boosting local employment and providing internationally recognized certification for aspiring seafarers. The initiative was unveiled during the Local Content Summit of 2025 held at the Marriott Hotel.

Dr. Martin Pertab, Head of the Local Content Secretariat, revealed that Guyanese currently occupy less than 30 percent of positions aboard offshore vessels operating in the country’s waters. With over 3,000 seafarers employed across 44 offshore vessels, this statistic underscores the urgent need for targeted training and capacity building within the sector.

“We’ve had extensive discussions with vessel owners to understand the challenges in onboarding Guyanese workers,” Dr. Pertab explained. “The Maritime Academy will provide local cadets with international-standard certificates, ensuring they are qualified to meet industry demands and secure employment opportunities both locally and globally.”

The academy is part of broader efforts to capitalize on Guyana’s expanding oil and gas sector, which has driven demand for skilled maritime professionals. Last month, 20 Guyanese students were awarded the prestigious Noble Cadet Scholarship, enabling them to pursue careers in the marine industry. This scholarship program highlights the growing interest among young Guyanese in maritime professions and complements the government’s push for localized workforce development.

The Maritime Academy follows the successful establishment of Guyana’s first oil and gas training facility at Port Mourant, Berbice, which has already produced graduates employed on vessels like the Liza Unity FPSO. By investing in specialized training institutions, the government aims to bridge skill gaps and ensure that Guyanese benefit directly from opportunities in key industries.

As Guyana continues its economic transformation fueled by oil and gas revenues, initiatives like the Maritime Academy represent critical steps toward creating a sustainable and inclusive workforce capable of meeting global standards. The academy is expected to open doors for thousands of citizens while strengthening Guyana’s position as a leader in maritime operations within the region.