SCIENCE, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education will play a crucial role in determining Guyana’s economic trajectory and future growth. A comparison of Guyana’s economy from just five years ago to today reveals marked progress, driven significantly by the emergence of the oil-and-gas sector. With increasing investment, job creation, and infrastructure development, the country’s growth potential is unprecedented.

This is why accelerating STEM education, particularly among young people, is more important than ever. Since the start of oil production in Guyana, the job and business landscape has evolved rapidly. While traditional employment sectors remain relevant, there is a growing demand for technologically skilled professionals and businesses that can support this dynamic, high-tech industry.

The University of Guyana, with the support of ExxonMobil Guyana, has enhanced its Mechanical Laboratory at the Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FET) to deliver world-class engineering education. The support saw the university procuring equipment that replaced several older machines. The investment ensures that students are better equipped for Guyana’s rapidly evolving economy.

Additionally, Exxon also supported the Advanced Scholars Programme, which allowed 31 academic members to obtain PhDs and EdDs at Arizona State University.  The initiative promoted action research throughout Guyana, tackling critical challenges in agriculture, forestry, energy, education, indigenous communities, water, pollution, biodiversity, and technology. The scholars have since returned to Guyana and are contributing to teaching, research, and administrative functions at the university, passing down knowledge.

Also contributing to STEM education is the Greater Guyana Initiative, a US$100 million, non-cost recoverable 10-year investment made by the Stabroek Block co-venturers – ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, Hess Guyana Exploration Limited, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited.

Through a five-year collaboration with the University of Guyana, the GGI has since invested in the construction of a state-of-the-art Science and Technology Building, which will be completed soon. They have also retrofitted the Skills and Anatomy Lab, a pivotal component in training healthcare professionals, providing invaluable insights into functional anatomy, and creating a skills-based learning environment to enhance the practical aspects of undergraduate training. This is coupled with the support of a cutting-edge Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing Data Lab. The lab is poised to revolutionise data analysis capabilities and enhance the utilisation of GIS technology, enabling individuals worldwide to access critical data resources seamlessly by bridging geographical barriers and facilitating information sharing across different regions.

The ultimate goal of the investments is to extend the disciplines offered in STEM so that thousands of students who wish to develop careers can access those opportunities locally. Oil-and-gas companies operating in Guyana have recognised this shift and are actively contributing to building the nation’s STEM capacity. Their support is not only enhancing education and skills-training but also creating pathways for Guyanese to meaningfully participate in, and benefit from, the country’s energy transformation.

The Regional Accelerated Specialised STEM Readiness (RASSR) project, also supported by the GGI, targets the younger population aged 10-12 from across the country. The initiative fosters critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a passion for innovation, equipping the young minds to be the future leaders and innovators of Guyana.

The Government of Guyana has also been playing a pivotal role in advancing STEM education through national policies and strategic partnerships. The Ministry of Education has introduced curriculum updates and teacher training initiatives focused on science and technology, while institutions like the University of Guyana continue to expand STEM-related programmes. The government’s Local Content Policy further supports STEM by encouraging companies to hire and train Guyanese talent in technical fields.

When we examine Guyana’s growing array of capacity-building programmes, it’s clear the country is taking bold steps to prepare its people for a future grounded in innovation and technology. These efforts will help reduce reliance on foreign expertise and ensure more Guyanese can fill critical STEM-related roles. Equally important are the entrepreneurial opportunities since local innovators can now create businesses that offer vital support services to oil and gas companies operating in the country.

As Guyana’s energy sector expands, so too must its investment in people. STEM education is the foundation for a self-sufficient, prosperous, and future-ready Guyana. With continued collaboration between the private sector, government, and academic institutions, the country is not just drilling for oil; it’s tapping into its greatest resource – its people.

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.