The University of Guyana’s (UG) Faculty of Engineering and Technology today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Halliburton, one of ExxonMobil’s Prime Contractors, which will see the University benefiting from US$2.2 Million for laboratory equipment, staff development and software support among other things.
The signing of the MoU was done on the sidelines of the Guyana International Petroleum Exhibition and Summit (GIPEX).
According to the MoU, the two parties agree to collaborate on projects in accordance with the scope of work in the areas of staff development, program and teaching support, expert engagements and the provision of specific software support.
The funds will be used to procure the necessary lab equipment which includes mud balance viscometers, retorts, and fume hoods as well as lab glassware, lab coats, stationery supplies, racking, plastic bottles and other various lab-specific consumables.
Speaking at the signing was UG’s Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin who explained that the project commenced in May, during a meeting that was brokered by Guyana’s Department of Energy in Houston, Texas.
Meanwhile, Director of the Department of Energy (DE), Dr. Mark Bynoe explained that despite minor setbacks, the Department, “sought to ensure that the collaboration was established between the University of Guyana and Halliburton.”
“This is a tangible demonstration of what needs to be done as we seek to build out our capacity to address the oil and gas sector,” he stated, later adding, “We are grateful for this investment in our human capital.” Dr. Bynoe stressed, “It is not just about moneys that are earned but also knowledge that is transferred and technology that are shared.”
Halliburton has been operating in Guyana for the past several years. In addressing the small gathering, Halliburton’s Area Manager for the Caribbean, Mr. Franco Delano expressed the company’s commitment to developing Guyana’s locals. He emphasized, “We are very proud to be part of this business with you. In addition to the monetary award, our intention is now to transfer the knowledge, transfer the technology and we are fully committed to this country and to the community.” According to the Halliburton official, “We want the students in this country to be the future leaders of Halliburton here in this country.”
