The University of Guyana (UG) and Massy (Guyana) Ltd. have formalized a partnership to enhance career development opportunities for UG students with the signing of a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The pact was signed on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 between Vice-Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohammed Martin and Massy (Guyana) Ltd. Chairman, Mr. Navindra Thakur at UG’s Turkeyen Campus. The agreement aims to foster collaboration between the two organizations, offering students scholarships, internships, and access to the Massy Management Trainee Programme.
Notably, the MoU is designed to provide UG students with real-world experience and training while supporting the development of a talent pipeline for the workforce. The partnership will also feature professional development programs, guest lectures from Massy executives, and community engagement initiatives, enhancing ties between the university, Massy, and local communities.
Professor Paloma Mohammed Martin expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, urging Massy to consider investing in younger students, even at the secondary school level. “The labour market is increasingly competitive, and businesses need to think ahead. Engaging high-performing CXC students and sponsoring their university education can help address staffing needs while supporting the next generation of leaders. We must lift people up by providing opportunities where they are often overlooked,” she said.
Mr. Navindra Thakur, Chairman of Massy (Guyana) Ltd., emphasized the mutual benefits of the MoU, stating, “This partnership is a natural extension of our commitment to talent development. Many graduates of our Management Trainee Programme are UG alumni, so it makes sense to strengthen this relationship. We look forward to continued collaboration with UG to ensure that the skills we need continue to flow into Massy.”
Dr. Melissa Ifill, UG’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Institutional Advancement, praised the agreement, noting the importance of partnering with a key player in Guyana’s market. Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Engagement, Prof. Emanuel F. Cummings, also voiced his satisfaction, highlighting that past Massy trainees who completed the program can now mentor new students.
Dean of the School of Entrepreneurship & Business Innovation (SEBI), Professor Leyland Lucas, expressed excitement for the practical knowledge students will gain through the programme, which they can bring back to the classroom to further enhance their academic journey.
