TVET Opportunities Will be Expanded Across Guyana By the Government
TVET Opportunities Will be Expanded Across Guyana By the Government. In a transformative move aimed at uplifting the youth and strengthening the national workforce, the Government of Guyana has committed to significantly expanding Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) across the country. The Ministry of Education, under the leadership of Minister Priya Manickchand, recently unveiled the National TVET Policy 2025–2035, a visionary blueprint for equipping Guyana’s citizens with industry-relevant skills to meet the demands of a rapidly growing economy, especially amid the burgeoning oil and gas sector.
TVET Policy: A Strategic Investment in Guyana’s Future
The newly launched National Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) Policy 2025–2035 aims to create a cohesive, regulated, and forward-thinking TVET ecosystem that reaches every corner of Guyana. The policy outlines structured expansion of training facilities, teacher development programmes, curriculum modernization, and the integration of TVET from an early stage in the education system.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Early TVET Integration | TVET subjects introduced from the first form in secondary schools |
| Facility Expansion | State-of-the-art TVET centres across nine out of ten regions |
| Curriculum Reform | Modern, industry-focused training aligned with economic needs |
| Centralised Oversight | A national institution to oversee regulation, coordination, and planning |
| Public-Private Partnerships | Collaboration with industry leaders to enhance practical training |
Regional Development Through State-of-the-Art Facilities
As part of its phased expansion strategy, the Government of Guyana has already launched several Practical Instruction Centres (PICs) across the country. Minister Manickchand recently commissioned new centres in Mabaruma, Hope Town, Beterverwagting (BV), and Fellowship in Region 3, with upcoming inaugurations in St. Ignatius and Bartica. These centres are equipped with modern tools and workshops designed to deliver hands-on training in technical skills that match the needs of local industries.
“Today, because of conscious investments and strategic partnerships, we have state-of-the-art TVET facilities in nine of the ten regions in Guyana,” said Minister Manickchand during her speech at the Ministry’s TVET fair and exposition.
Addressing Labour Shortages with TVET Training
One of the driving forces behind this investment in TVET is the country’s urgent need for a skilled workforce. Guyana’s fast-paced development, especially fueled by the oil and gas sector, has resulted in a shortage of labour across various industries. Minister Manickchand pointed out that while Guyana continues to build its internal capacity, there may be a temporary need to import skilled labour to meet the demand. However, the long-term focus remains on building a self-sufficient, highly trained domestic workforce.
“We want our children to be competent in what they are going to pursue. We want them to competitively engage in the various new arising sectors… and that is why the emphasis is on TVET from first form,” the Minister explained.
Government to Invest $18.5 Billion in TVET Modernisation by 2027
The Government of Guyana has allocated a staggering $18.5 billion to be spent over the next three years on TVET infrastructure and capacity building. This funding will go toward:
- Expanding and upgrading existing training centres
- Establishing new regional institutions
- Updating TVET equipment and materials
- Training instructors
- Developing digital and blended learning platforms for remote access
| Year | Planned Allocation (GYD) | Key Focus |
| 2024 | 5.5 Billion | Establishment of regional centres, equipment procurement |
| 2025 | 6.0 Billion | Curriculum overhaul, instructor training, digital tools |
| 2026 | 7.0 Billion | Centralised TVET authority, sector coordination, maintenance and monitoring |
A National TVET Authority for Unified Oversight
In order to streamline efforts and ensure standardisation, the Government plans to set up a single national institution that will be responsible for the planning, regulation, and coordination of all TVET-related activities across Guyana. This will help avoid duplication, enable quality control, and foster stronger linkages with industries and international partners.
This move will also promote efficiency and accountability in the sector, ensuring that investments yield measurable outcomes and that students graduate with employable skills.
Emphasis on Youth Empowerment and Economic Inclusion
By embedding TVET training early in the education system, the government is targeting youth empowerment and economic inclusion, especially for those who may not follow traditional academic routes. The approach also ensures that girls and young women, who have historically been underrepresented in technical fields, are encouraged to take up training in non-traditional trades like welding, construction, and ICT.
| Sector | TVET Relevance |
| Oil & Gas | Engineering, rig operation, safety protocols |
| Construction | Plumbing, carpentry, electrical installation |
| Agriculture | Agri-processing, drone use in farming, irrigation techniques |
| ICT | Software development, networking, cybersecurity |
| Hospitality | Culinary arts, tourism management, housekeeping |
National Impact of the TVET Policy
With the implementation of this comprehensive TVET policy, Guyana is set to:
- Reduce unemployment, especially among the youth
- Increase income levels and job readiness
- Strengthen the nation’s competitiveness on the global stage
- Foster innovation and entrepreneurship among skilled individuals
The expansion of TVET is not just an educational reform—it is a national development strategy. By aligning skill training with market demand, Guyana positions itself to capitalise on its economic potential while ensuring social upliftment.
FAQs About TVET Opportunities Will be Expanded
What is the National TVET Policy 2025–2035 in Guyana?
Ans: It is a strategic plan introduced by the Government of Guyana to modernize and expand technical and vocational education across the country, aiming to equip the workforce with essential skills aligned with national economic goals.
Why is the government investing GYD $18.5 billion in TVET?
Ans: The investment aims to develop modern facilities, train instructors, enhance curriculum, and establish a central regulatory body to ensure a skilled workforce for sectors like oil & gas, construction, ICT, and agriculture.
Who will benefit from the TVET expansion?
Ans: Primarily, students and young adults across all ten regions of Guyana, especially those who prefer skill-based education over traditional academics. Industries will also benefit from a more competent local workforce.
Conclusion
The Government of Guyana’s dedication to expanding TVET through the National TVET Policy 2025–2035 marks a pivotal step toward inclusive economic growth and skills empowerment. With strategic funding, modern facilities, and early TVET integration in schools, the nation is on a firm path to creating a self-reliant, industry-ready workforce that will shape Guyana’s future for decades to come.
