Dear Editor,
I was glad to see the recent attention being given to young Guyanese pursuing maritime careers. It is the kind of story we need to see more often.
For too long, we have pushed children to believe that success means only a few professions. Everybody must become a doctor, lawyer, accountant, teacher or office worker. Those are all good careers, but they are not the only respectable ones.
Guyana needs people who can work with their hands and their minds. We need seafarers, mechanics, welders, electricians, vessel operators, safety officers, marine technicians and logistics workers. These are not fallback jobs. These are serious careers.
With all that is happening offshore, at ports, at shore bases and in logistics, maritime work is becoming more important. But I do not think enough young people understand what the field offers or how to get into it.
Career guidance in schools should do a better job of explaining these options. As parents, we also need to change how we speak about technical work. A child should not feel like he or she has failed because they choose a technical institute, maritime training or a skilled trade instead of university.
I was especially pleased to see young women being highlighted in this space. We have to stop acting as though certain careers are only for men. If a young woman has the discipline and interest to pursue maritime work, she should be encouraged.
Of course, training institutions and companies must also do their part. Young people need clear information, exposure, internships and mentorship. It is not enough to say opportunities exist. People need to know the steps. Guyana’s development will require all kinds of workers. The sooner we respect technical careers, the better prepared we will be.
Yours faithfully,
Greg Lynch
