Guyana continues to face a shortage of engineers even as the University of Guyana (UG) expands enrollment and infrastructure to meet growing demand from the oil and gas sector.
In an exclusive interview with OilNOW on March 31, outgoing Vice Chancellor Dr. Paloma Mohamed confirmed the gap remains. To address it, she said “UG has expanded its annual intake by 300% over the last few years. We have now extended to three regions under the President’s initiative.”
She added that infrastructure is being upgraded to support training. “We are, with GGI’s [Greater Guyana Initiative] help, expanding our physical space with extended labs and a new building for the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, gifted by GGI,” Mohamed said.
New programs are also being introduced. “The University has also just introduced its infrastructure and construction programme, which will create sub-specialties not yet offered,” she said, noting partnerships with other institutions to strengthen faculty and student development.
Mohamed outlined challenges graduates face entering the workforce. “Graduates sometimes struggle with limited exposure to advanced equipment, adapting to demanding work environments, and meeting technical certification requirements, emotional intelligence and self-management,” she said.
To address this, she said UG is increasing practical training. “The University is expanding internships and hoping to establish simulation labs, giving students more hands-on practice before they enter the workforce… We also offer workshops and clinics for our students, especially those entering the workforce for the first time.”
She noted that gaps remain in the university’s offers. “Yes. Many. We currently do not offer any postgraduate level course in Engineering and Technology yet,” Mohamed said, adding that “upgrading laboratories, hiring specialized faculty, and providing access to simulation tools and software are top priorities.”
Looking ahead, Mohamed said the institution is preparing for a more complex industry. “The University of Guyana is committed to modernizing its curriculum, fostering stronger industry partnerships, and investing in specialties,” she said, adding that it will focus on “expanding research linked to entrepreneurship and a capable population who can sustain themselves and help build our country.”
