By Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News|
PORT MOURANT, BERBICE — Guyana officially cemented its position as a burgeoning hub for technical excellence on Monday with the formal commissioning of the Guyana Technical Training College Inc. (GTTCI) in Port Mourant. The landmark project, valued at US$120 million, was inaugurated by President Dr. Irfaan Ali, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s quest to localize high-level technical skills.
The facility is the result of a strategic partnership between the Government of Guyana and the Stabroek Block co-venturers—ExxonMobil, Hess, and CNOOC—and is designed to serve as the premier training ground for the offshore and onshore energy workforce.
State-of-the-Art Simulation & Global Standing
The GTTCI is not a traditional vocational school; it belongs to an elite group of institutions worldwide featuring advanced simulation technology. This allows students to train in high-fidelity, virtual environments that mirror real-world offshore platforms and refinery operations.
- Simulation Excellence: The college features specialized simulators for process operations, mechanical maintenance, and electrical instrumentation.
- International Standards: Training at GTTCI is designed to meet rigorous international certification standards, ensuring that Guyanese graduates are globally employable from day one.
Gender Inclusivity and Social Shift
During his keynote address, President Ali highlighted a “monumental” shift in the demographics of technical education.
- Women in Technical Roles: The President noted a record number of young women enrolled in GTTCI’s inaugural programs, traditionally male-dominated fields like mechanical engineering and welding.
- National Blueprint: He credited the project’s success to strategic dialogues initiated in 2020, emphasizing that GTTCI is a core pillar of the government’s 2030 vision for a diversified and skilled citizenry.
Institutional Leadership & Partnerships
Professor Clement Sankat, Director of GTTCI and former Principal of UWI St. Augustine, described the college as a “critical engine” for Guyana’s economic expansion.
Key Collaborations:
- University of Guyana (UG): GTTCI will host specialized engineering courses from UG, bridging the gap between academic theory and technical application.
- ExxonMobil & Partners: Beyond the US$120M initial investment, industry partners are providing the curriculum and technical expertise to ensure the training matches live operational requirements.
- Regional Integration: While based in Port Mourant, the college is intended to be a national asset, drawing students from all ten administrative regions via a comprehensive scholarship program.
What This Means for Berbice
The establishment of the GTTCI is expected to trigger an economic boom in Region 6 (East Berbice-Corentyne). Beyond education, the facility is acting as a catalyst for:
- Infrastructure Growth: New housing and commercial services to support staff and students.
- Secondary Industry: The rise of specialized service providers catering to the college and its international partners.
