The Guyana Government, in partnership with the Ghana Chamber of Commerce Guyana, announced on Tuesday the rollout of a new training initiative for 12 Guyanese engineers or engineering students. The initiative will see technical training done at Ghana’s Sentuo Oil Refinery, the largest and most modern in West Africa.
This news agency understands that the refinery was commissioned on January 26, 2024, and was conceived from the Chinese government’s Belt and Road Development Strategy.
The refinery has a capacity of 200,000 barrels per day (bpd), which is more than enough to meet the domestic demand of 80,000 bpd and export the surplus to neighboring countries. The project cost US$4 billion and took four years to complete. It is expected to create over 10,000 direct and indirect jobs and generate US$1.2 billion in annual revenue for the government.
This latest training programme for Guyanese engineers was crystallized by President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s recent visit to the Sentuo Oil Refinery in Accra, Ghana.
During President Ali’s visit for the Africa Prosperity Dialogues 2024, held on January 26, 2024, a commitment was made to foster skill development among Guyanese professionals. Reflecting this commitment, management at the Sentuo Oil Refinery pledged to train 12 Guyanese engineers or engineering students annually for a six-month period. This training is not only a significant opportunity for knowledge exchange but also a chance for hands-on experience in what will soon be one of Africa’s leading oil refineries.
The trainees will receive comprehensive support, including accommodation, transportation, and a stipend, ensuring a focus on learning and professional development during their stay in Ghana.
Guyana Standard understands that the Ghana Chamber of Commerce Guyana will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth implementation of this program, working in tandem with the Government of Guyana.
The training at an oil refinery is indeed critical for Guyana, which is keen on having its own modular refinery soon.
During the presentation of the 2024 budget on January 15, Senior Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh announced that out of nine proposals received, five have been shortlisted for the construction of a refinery in the Berbice region.
These proposals are under evaluation, with the final selection expected in early 2024. “Following this, the top-ranked contender will undertake an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment at Crab Island for a facility designed to process at least 30,000 barrels per day (bpd),” Minister Singh stated.
The investment for this project is anticipated to surpass US$1 billion.
