Over 40 Exhibitors Showcased at National TVET Expo: Education Ministry Unveils New Policy
By Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News
More than 40 public and private entities are participating in a two-day Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Fair and Exposition, currently being held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal. The exhibition spotlights a wide range of sectors, including energy, agriculture, health, and technical education, all aimed at preparing Guyana’s youth for an evolving workforce.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Marcia Paddy-Andrews, Assistant Chief Education Officer – Technical, emphasized the growing role of young people in shaping the country’s future:
“Our youth are not waiting for change—they are the driving force behind it. TVET provides them with the opportunity to lead that process.”
She highlighted that the exposition is a celebration of student creativity and innovation, showcasing how technical institutions are equipping learners with the skills required to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development, particularly in sectors like construction, renewable energy, digital technology, and smart agriculture.
Visitors to the expo will experience live demonstrations of green technology applications, digital solutions, and entrepreneurial initiatives developed by students from secondary schools and technical institutes across Guyana.
Delivering remarks at the opening, Minister of Education Priya Manickchand reaffirmed her government’s commitment to TVET, declaring that 74 secondary schools across the country now offer 24 TVET-related subjects:
“That, my friends, is what love and investment in education look like,” she stated. “We are ensuring that our children are fully prepared for the Guyana that is rapidly taking shape before our eyes.”
Minister Manickchand further explained that as Guyana’s economy diversifies, there is a growing need for a workforce that is skilled, adaptable, and innovative.
In support of this vision, the Ministry of Education has launched a new TVET policy for 2025–2035, focused on national development, enhancing education quality, and expanding employment opportunities.
The two-day expo, which began on Monday, concludes on Wednesday, and serves as a testament to Guyana’s growing emphasis on technical competency, youth empowerment, and education modernization.