In a groundbreaking initiative, the Government of Guyana has launched a two-year apprenticeship program aimed at training twenty women in electrical installation and basic solar photovoltaic (PV) technology. This program is part of the World Bank’s Caribbean Efficient and Green-Energy Buildings Project, designed to transform Guyana’s energy sector through sustainable solutions.
Programme Details
The apprenticeship program, which commenced on March 3, 2025, is a collaborative effort between the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), the Ministry of Labour’s Board of Industrial Training (BIT), and the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security. Participants will receive comprehensive training in electrical installations, solar PV system design and maintenance, safety protocols, and environmental best practices. Additionally, they will gain entrepreneurial skills to enhance their career advancement opportunities.
Training sessions are being held at the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) office in Kingston, Georgetown, with a structured format of three-month training cycles followed by one-month breaks. Upon completion, graduates will be awarded a National Apprenticeship Vocational Certificate, enabling them to pursue careers in the energy sector and advance their technical qualifications.
Funding and Partnerships
The program is financed by a grant from the Canada Clean Energy and Forest Climate Facility (CCEFCF), with additional support from the World Bank’s Energy Sector Management Assistance Program (ESMAP). The broader initiative includes funding from the International Development Association (IDA), which aids small-state economies like Guyana.
Closing the Gender Gap
This initiative represents a significant step toward gender inclusivity in the energy sector, traditionally dominated by men. By empowering women with technical skills, the government aims to foster a diverse and capable workforce that will drive innovation and economic progress in Guyana’s burgeoning energy sector.
Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, emphasized the program’s potential to inspire other women to pursue careers in energy and technical fields. “This is something that is going to take you to a good vantage point, inspiring others to follow in your footsteps and contribute to the growth of the country,” she stated.
Community Impact
Participants from various regions of Guyana have expressed their enthusiasm for the program, highlighting its potential to benefit their communities. By acquiring skills in electrical installation and solar PV technology, these women will be able to address local needs more effectively, reducing reliance on external services and contributing to sustainable development.
In summary, the apprenticeship program for women in electrical installation and solar technology reflects Guyana’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and gender equality. By equipping women with technical skills, the government is fostering a more inclusive and capable workforce that will drive innovation and economic growth in the energy sector.
