poised to meet national demands

THE University of Guyana’s School of Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation (SEBI) is set to mark a significant milestone this November, as its first cohort of Master of Science in Supply Chain Management students prepares to graduate.
This achievement is not just a testament to the hard work of the students, but a reflection of the growing importance of supply chain management in Guyana’s rapidly expanding industries, particularly in the oil and gas sector.
Professor Leyland Lucas, Dean of SEBI, underscored the significance of this programme in the broader context of national development.

“Like all the other programmes we offer, this one was created in response to the national development needs of the country,” Professor Lucas explained. “We launched this programme as a natural progression from our undergraduate courses in logistics and supply chain management, recognising the increasing demand for advanced skills in these fields.”

The graduate programme was introduced in 2021 at a time when the global landscape was changing dramatically due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The crisis exposed the vulnerabilities of supply chains worldwide, highlighting the need for highly skilled professionals capable of managing complex logistics systems.

“We lived through the crisis of the pandemic and saw just how important supply chain management is,” Professor Lucas noted. “Supply chains ensure the efficient delivery of products and services, and in today’s world, that’s a non-negotiable requirement.”
This first cohort of students, which began their studies during the 2021/2022 academic year, has navigated both academic and personal challenges. Out of the initial eight students, five have successfully completed the rigorous programme, including a capstone project addressing real-world issues. One

standout project examined the logistics system within the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), reflecting the practical application of their studies.
The graduates, many of whom were already employed in the logistics sector, are now equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise that will enhance their roles. According to Professor Lucas, “These students are not just equipped to contribute locally but also globally. We see them as professionals who can compete on the world stage.”

The success of this first batch has set a strong foundation for the programme’s future. SEBI has already welcomed a new cohort of 23 students for the 2024/2025 academic year, demonstrating the growing demand for advanced supply chain management skills in Guyana. “Our programmes will continue to grow, and we will keep making meaningful contributions to the country’s development,” Professor Lucas affirmed.

As Guyana’s economy, particularly the oil and gas sector, continues to expand, the need for efficient supply chain management is more critical than ever. Professor Lucas emphasised that the challenges of logistics, timeliness, and sustainability are now at the forefront of business operations. “In a competitive environment like the one we are in, understanding supply chains and the role of technology is key to remaining competitive,” he explained.

Looking to the future, SEBI remains committed to equipping its students with the skills necessary to navigate the evolving demands of global and local markets. Reflecting on the accomplishments of the first cohort, Professor Lucas shared his pride: “I am extremely proud of our first batch. They’ve had their challenges, but they stayed the course, and their success is a testament to their perseverance. We are confident that these graduates will continue to make significant contributions to Guyana’s supply chain management sector.”

As the University of Guyana (UG) celebrates this landmark achievement, it is clear that these graduates are not only prepared to contribute to the national economy but are also ready to make an impact on the global stage, further strengthening Guyana’s competitive edge in an increasingly interconnected world.