GUYANA, a small yet promising nation nestled on the northern coast of South America, is poised to become an economic powerhouse with the discovery of vast oil and gas reserves. As the country prepares to capitalise on this unprecedented opportunity, it is essential to recognise the pivotal role of investing in the youth of Guyana.

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government has taken significant strides towards empowering the nation’s youth through robust investments in education, particularly in technical training and scholarships, thus positioning young people to spearhead the nation’s development and harness the potential of burgeoning industries.

Education has long been heralded as the cornerstone of progress and development in any society. The PPP/C government has recognised this truth and made substantial commitments to bolster the education sector in Guyana.
Two notable initiatives are the $40,000 education cash grant and the Guyana Online Learning Academy (GOAL) scholarship programme.

While the grant provides financial support for parents to send their children to school (from nursery to secondary), the GOAL scholarship programme aims to provide scholarships to Guyanese students pursuing higher education in fields crucial to the nation’s development, including geosciences, information technology, and environmental studies, among other things.
By investing in the knowledge and skills of the youth, the government ensures a steady supply of well-trained professionals ready to contribute to the growing oil and gas sector and other budding industries.

Moreover, the PPP/C government understands the importance of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in preparing the youth for the job market and equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.
Recognising this need, the government has embarked on an ambitious plan to expand TVET programmes across the country. By establishing state-of-the-art vocational training centres and partnering with industry experts, the government is nurturing a workforce that can seize the opportunities emerging from the oil and gas sector and other burgeoning industries.

These TVET programmes provide specialised training in areas such as welding, construction, maritime skills, and renewable energy, among others. By offering pathways to high-quality technical education, Guyana is empowering its youth to take an active part in shaping the nation’s destiny.

In addition to investments in education, the PPP/C government has also prioritised the development of infrastructure and support systems necessary for the growth of industries in Guyana.
The government has worked diligently to create a favourable business environment, attract foreign investment, and foster innovation and entrepreneurship. By streamlining administrative processes and providing incentives for businesses to set up in Guyana, the government is opening doors for job creation and economic expansion.

This strategy not only benefits the youth by providing employment opportunities but also ensures that the nation’s wealth generated from the oil and gas sector is reinvested into education, healthcare, and other vital sectors.
Investing in Guyana’s youth is not merely an act of goodwill; it is a strategic imperative for the nation’s long-term prosperity. By equipping young people with the necessary knowledge, skills, and opportunities, the PPP/C government is laying the foundation for a vibrant and inclusive society.