THE Volunteer Youth Corps’ (VYC) sixth Annual Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) conference which aims to encourage youths in the field, attracted a full house at the Ramada Georgetown Princes Hotel on Saturday.
The event, sponsored by ExxonMobil, catered for students from 14 schools across the country.
VYC Chief Executive Officer Goldie Scott said since 2012, the non-governmental organisation (NGO) has been hosting its After-School Interactive Math and Science Programme, now STEM. Through support from ExxonMobil and approval from the Ministry of Education, it has made a few adjustments.
The programme is aimed at boosting the youth’s capabilities, Goldie Scott said. It aims to help in the development of the nation’s future leaders, by equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge for the modern working environment.
“Today’s event will be no different in showcasing creativity. We want to challenge your mind to be innovative and creative and to think outside the box, and to do so using the approach of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. We believe, that in partnership with ExxonMobil, this is the vehicle to propel you to achieve that potential,” Scott explained.
She noted that the agency will remain committed to be an avenue, through which young people can be equipped with the necessary skills and techniques to achieve their full potential.
ExxonMobil Geoscience Manager, Doug Mc Gehee thanked the students for their participation. He also noted the increased interest in the programme as one which not only the agency, but the country will appreciate.
“It has to do with the oil and gas business, it is a very high-tech business and when we look at our future we will be in Guyana for a very long time, and so when we look at our own employees for the future…. We hire people that have technical education, that has an understanding in science technology, mathematics, but more importantly the way that we work, the way ExxonMobil works as a team, innovation and problem- solving is important,” Mc Gehee explained.
He further said that the initiative will also create ambassadors who will make others understand what the company is doing in the country.
Assistant to the Minister of State, Dr. Astell Collins said while the country is considered wealthy, it is impoverished mentally; hence, he applauded all for undertaking such an initiative which creates and cultivates an environment that speaks to the value of youths.
“You are the treasure chest to the country’s development,” he said. (DPI)
