THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has concluded its 2026 Work-Study Attachment Programme, giving 198 students practical workplace experience while exposing them to career opportunities and professional roles across the military.
The programme was conducted in two six-week phases and included students from the University of Guyana, Carnegie School of Home Economics, Government Technical Institute, Guyana Industrial Training Centre and several secondary schools.
Participants were assigned to various GDF bases, departments and units, where they worked alongside military and civilian personnel and applied knowledge gained through their respective fields of study.
Beyond technical and professional exposure, the programme sought to instil discipline, responsibility, teamwork and a strong work ethic among the young participants.
Students were also introduced to the range of professions and specialised functions within the Force, giving them a broader understanding of career opportunities available within the GDF beyond traditional military roles.
At the closing ceremony, participants were commended for their conduct during the attachments and received certificates of participation and cash stipends.
The GDF said the programme was designed to bridge the gap between education and national development by equipping young Guyanese with practical skills and professional values while fostering an appreciation for service to country.
The initiative also provided students with an opportunity to make informed decisions about their future careers and understand how their respective areas of study can contribute to national development.
Through continued exposure to workplaces and institutions such as the GDF, the work-study programme seeks to prepare young people to enter the workforce with greater confidence, practical experience and a stronger sense of responsibility to society.