The Iwokrama International Centre will soon re-launch its Science Programme with support from ExxonMobil by way of a US$300,000 (G$62M) charitable contribution.
The initial contribution from ExxonMobil will support the establishment of the Iwokrama Science Committee and commission initial research, based on the advice of the Committee, to inform a more comprehensive program on biodiversity. Funding will also enhance local capacity, including staffing and limited facility improvements, Iwokrama said in a press statement Tuesday.
“I am encouraged by the positive support from ExxonMobil,” said Dane Gobin, CEO of Iwokrama. “Together, we will work to foster an international science hub that supports biodiversity research, education, and sustainable development for the country, region, and global community,” Gobin added.
With this partnership between the two organisations to re-establish the internationally prestigious Science Programme, the intention will be to action key scientific research, within the 371,000 hectares Iwokrama rainforest.
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Commenting on the landmark initiative, ExxonMobil Country Manager in Guyana, Rod Henson, said, “We’re committed to the communities where we live and work, and we’re proud to partner with an organization as community-minded as the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development.”
Henson said the company is excited to see the Science Programme revitalized and the sustainable impacts the research will have across the region and globe.
Iwokrama will officially re-launch the Science Programme on Wednesday at an event to mark World Science Day to be held at the Pegasus Hotel, Georgetown, Guyana.
