Minister Hamilton Highlights the Importance of Local Talent Development
Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton underscored the significance of local initiatives in advancing the long-term development aspirations of Guyana. Recently, 11 young individuals from various regions were selected to participate in two pivotal programs organized by MODEC (Guyana) Inc., marking a substantial investment in local talent.
Recognizing the essential role of Guyanese expertise in the oil and gas sector’s future, MODEC launched its inaugural on-shore trainee and internship programs. These initiatives aim to create job opportunities and enhance the capabilities of the local workforce, ensuring that young professionals are well-prepared for the dynamic energy industry.
Recruitment for these programs commenced on August 7, 2024, attracting over 1,000 applications nationwide. After a comprehensive selection process, three Guyanese began an 18-month internship in December 2024, gaining experience in Supply Chain, Human Resources, and Compliance Departments. Additionally, eight graduates from the University of Guyana were chosen for a 20-month on-shore training program, which will take them to Brazil and Singapore, focusing on essential skills in various technical and operational fields.
During the commencement ceremony at the Centre for Local Business Development, Minister Hamilton emphasized the long-term benefits of such initiatives for Guyana’s development. He noted that while the current workforce is being trained, the country must prepare for future demands in technical areas to support ambitious housing projects and other developments.
Hamilton encouraged attendees to prioritize continuous learning and personal growth to seize emerging opportunities, stressing the importance of language skills in furthering their careers. He highlighted the transformative power of education in overcoming poverty.
University of Guyana Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr. Paloma Mohamed-Martin, also addressed the participants, praising the vast opportunities available to young people and the responsibility they hold to set a positive example for future generations.
Rafael Fumis, Country Manager of MODEC Guyana, urged participants to apply their training to foster innovation and efficiency in operations, contributing value to both MODEC and Guyana. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to investing over GY$350 million in local capacity development this year, reflecting a dedication to nurturing a skilled workforce in the burgeoning oil and gas sector.
This initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Government of Guyana, the University of Guyana, ExxonMobil Guyana, and the Local Content Secretariat. (Faith Greene)
