Guyana’s oil sector will need additional 5,828 workers by 2028- Report
A report funded by The Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI) has found that the demand for qualified workers in Guyana’s oil and gas sector is projected to increase dramatically in the coming years. The sector, which employed around 1,813 workers in 2021, will need approximately 5,828 additional workers by 2028 to meet its operational demands. This surge in labor requirements underscores the critical shortage of skilled personnel that threatens to impede the industry’s growth.
One of the main issues highlighted in the report is that “the existing education and training infrastructure is insufficient to meet the sector’s needs.” This gap it said, must be addressed urgently. Specifically, the report states that existing technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions, alongside the University of Guyana, are unable to meet the quantitative and qualitative needs of the sector. This gap is exacerbated by the fact that the output from these institutions is expected to be significantly lower than the demand, leading to a shortfall that could stall the sector’s progress.
To bridge this gap, the GGI recommends a multifaceted approach, including the expansion of educational and training capacities, the introduction of more private sector training facilities, and the implementation of a robust immigration policy to attract skilled foreign workers. The report suggests that without these measures, the sector will struggle to achieve its potential, given the current limitations in the local workforce.
The report also highlighted the importance of developing specialized training programs that focus on the unique skills required in the sector, such as offshore safety training, advanced engineering, and technical skills specific to hydrocarbon exploration and production. This approach will not only help meet the immediate labor demand but also ensure a sustainable pipeline of skilled workers for the future.
In addition to expanding training capacities, the report calls for a more coordinated effort between the government, educational institutions, and industry stakeholders to develop a comprehensive labor market information system. This system would provide essential data on workforce trends, skill shortages, and future labor needs, enabling more informed decision-making and strategic planning.
The GGI also underscored the importance of an effective immigration policy to supplement the local workforce. With the current demand for skilled workers far outstripping supply, the sector will need to rely on foreign labor to fill critical gaps. The report recommends a streamlined immigration process that facilitates the entry of skilled professionals while ensuring that their skills are effectively transferred to the local workforce.
Furthermore, the report pinpointed the need for increased private sector involvement in workforce development. By fostering partnerships between the private sector and educational institutions, the industry can leverage resources and expertise to create more tailored training programs that meet specific industry needs. This approach will also help bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring that graduates have the skills and competencies required by the oil and gas sector.
