With Guyana on the brink of substantial economic transformation due to recent oil discoveries, the need for a well-educated and skilled workforce is more pressing than ever. The Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI), with a robust investment of US$100 million from Stabroek Block partners ExxonMobil, Hess, and CNOOC, is at the forefront of addressing this need through the Regional Accelerated Specialized STEM Readiness (RASSR) project.
The RASSR project is an ambitious programme designed to harness the potential of Guyana’s youth by immersing them in STEM education. Hosted at the University of Guyana’s Turkeyen campus, this initiative targets young students aged 10-12 from all 10 regions of the country, aiming to build a strong foundation in the essential disciplines that will drive the country’s future.
The programme’s curriculum is comprehensive and cutting-edge, covering key areas such as mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, integrated science, technology, and engineering. Importantly, the curriculum is not static; it is responsive to the evolving economic landscape of Guyana, particularly the burgeoning oil and gas sector, which is expected to demand a high level of technical expertise in the coming years.
Moreover, RASSR incorporates an innovative approach by integrating environmental stewardship and biodiversity into the STEM curriculum. This inclusion is crucial as it aligns with Guyana’s rich ecological diversity and the need to manage its resources sustainably. Through this holistic approach, the program not only prepares students for technical careers but also instills a sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation.
The impact of such an education extends beyond individual career prospects. By fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a passion for innovation, RASSR is equipping these young minds to be the future leaders and innovators of Guyana.
Alicia Bess-Anderson, an advisor for ExxonMobil Guyana and the lead for the Greater Guyana Initiative, emphasized the strategic importance of the RASSR project. In an interview on the Energy Perspectives podcast, a programme powered by the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, she noted, “It’s about more than just education; it’s about building a foundation for innovation and leadership in our country.”
Bess-Anderson’s story of rising to a leadership position within ExxonMobil Guyana, serves as a powerful example of what is possible when talent meets opportunity. Her career trajectory, facilitated by early exposure to STEM and bolstered by continuous learning and adaptation, illustrates the potential impact of the RASSR programme on the lives of its participants.
The focus on STEM education through initiatives like RASSR is crucial for ensuring that Guyana does not just benefit transiently from its natural resources but builds a sustainable and diversified economy. By investing in the education of its youth, Guyana is setting the stage for a future that is not only prosperous but also resilient and inclusive.
