ExxonMobil has pledged US $100 Million Dollars to support a new initiative aligned with President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s ambitious agenda to transform the local education sector, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The announcement was made during an event at the State House, hosted by President Ali and First Lady Arya Ali.
“This is an outcome of one meaningful international visit in Houston—US$100 million coming back into our country for our children’s future,” President Ali stated. He praised the strong partnership with ExxonMobil and highlighted the company’s understanding of the critical need for investment in education.
The commitment comes as part of a broader initiative to modernize local education. The recently launched Guyana Digital School aims to provide accessible, high-quality online education, offering flexible learning opportunities that complement traditional schooling and foster academic excellence nationwide.
Additionally, the Guyana Technical Training College Inc. (GTTCI) Campus in Port Mourant, Region Six, has opened with state-of-the-art facilities. This institution is designed to develop a skilled Guyanese workforce for high-income careers in technical sectors, offering programs in Production Technician Training, Instrumentation, Electrical, Mechanical, and other specialized fields.
ExxonMobil’s investment will specifically support several key areas:
- Strengthening STEM Teaching: Starting in September, the ExxonMobil Foundation will collaborate with the Ministry of Education, the University of Guyana, and the University of Houston to deliver Teacher STEM Training.
- Expanding STEM Opportunities: Over the next decade, the initiative will enhance student programs inside and outside the classroom, providing access to world-class STEM resources, including Khan Academy. A network of STEM Centres and satellites will be established, with the first set to open in Georgetown in 2029, even reaching remote hinterland communities.
- Forging Pathways for College and Careers: These STEM Centres will offer practical experiences that directly connect learning to modern careers, alongside additional college and career readiness resources, such as pre-college math and science courses, mentoring, and tutoring.
ExxonMobil’s President in Guyana, Alistair Routledge, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “We look forward to seeing the vision laid out by your government unfold and to exploring innovative ways to collaborate even more.” Meanwhile, CEO Darren Woods emphasized the goal of inspiring the next generation of Guyanese engineers and scientists through collaboration with students and educators.
The Guyana Government continues to pursue various ventures aimed at transforming the local education sector, striving for a brighter future for its youth.
