Guyana’s maritime sector is poised for exponential growth alongside its burgeoning oil and gas industry, with a new generation of marine professionals stepping up to the challenge. Addressing the latest Marine Cadet Programme graduates from the MATPAL Marine Institute on October 24, Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill highlighted the crucial role these new cadets will play.
“We’re expanding at an unprecedented pace. The discovery and development of oil and gas resources are placing Guyana on the world map. And with that comes the need for greater maritime infrastructure capacity and expertise,” Edghill said.
“Female-owned’ maritime institute prepping hundreds of Guyanese for deepwater operations
The ceremony, celebrating 15 graduates from the Marine Cadet Programme, highlighted the cadets’ potential impact on Guyana’s economic transformation. Edghill praised the new officers, noting their hard work and the importance of the rigorous training that has equipped them with both technical skills and a deep sense of responsibility.
“You are the guardians of our waters, the stewards of our maritime resources, and the builders of Guyana’s future,” he declared.
Edghill also revealed progress towards establishing a deepwater port—an ambitious infrastructure project intended to position Guyana as a key transshipment hub for the region. “We make no bones about it when we talk about the deepwater harbor that will eventually be built; this is something we’re pursuing,” he affirmed.
The proposed port, potentially located in New Amsterdam, Region 6, aims to enable Guyana to accommodate some of the largest vessels in the world, opening new pathways for trade, particularly with Brazil through the road link to Lethem in Region 9. Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali had previously endorsed this development as a strategic link to international markets, enhancing trade with Guyana’s southern neighbor.
Edghill explained that as international interest in Guyana’s energy potential intensifies, the nation’s infrastructure is adapting to meet the demands of an international energy economy. The deepwater port will serve as a vital hub, facilitating the efficient export of resources and offering logistical support for the offshore oil industry.
Guyana’s maritime evolution aligns with its soaring oil exports, with data from the Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO) showing exports at 598,000 barrels per day, a substantial 58% increase from last year. The minister reminded the cadets of their role beyond oil, highlighting the expanding maritime demands in agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism as Guyana’s economy diversifies.
“Our economy relies heavily on maritime transport. As Guyana becomes a more prominent player in global trade and energy, the efficiency of our ports, the safety of our vessels, and the competence of our seafarers will become increasingly important,” he said, alluding to the sector’s broader impact on national prosperity.
He explained that Matpal’s commitment to investing in the maritime industry aligns with the government’s broader economic goals, with maritime expertise positioned to support everything from crude oil transportation to agricultural exports. According to him, as the graduates embark on their new careers, they symbolize the country’s maritime aspirations, representing Guyana’s ambition to build a globally recognized maritime presence.
“Your success as marine officers is directly linked to Guyana’s ability to thrive in a globalized economy,” Edghill said, capturing the high stakes—and high hopes—riding on this new generation of marine professionals.
MATPAL Marine Institute Inc., established in October 1999 and Guyana’s first ISO 9001:2015 certified maritime institute, has played a pivotal role in shaping maritime education, training, and certification in the region. With a legacy of over six thousand trained professionals and a commitment to excellence, MATPAL continues to enrich Guyana’s maritime landscape and contribute to the broader regional industry.
