From banking and finance to energy and mining, more than 40 companies converged on the University of Guyana’s Turkeyen Campus on Friday for Day 1 of the institution’s Open Day and Job Fair, offering hundreds of current and prospective students a window into the country’s growing employment landscape.
Republic Bank Managing Director Dr. Toussaint Boyce, himself a UG graduate who was first identified by the bank through a scholarship while studying there, encouraged students to approach the event with purpose and preparation.
“All you need is the courage to take the next step,” Dr. Boyce said, adding that Republic Bank has invested in youth-focused initiatives for over a decade based on the belief that young people, when given the right tools and options, make decisions that positively impact their futures. He said the bank stands ready to support entrepreneurial ambitions as well, noting that on-the-spot interviews were available for those who came prepared.
The energy sector was also well represented. ExxonMobil Guyana Community Relations Supervisor Ryan Hoppie highlighted that the sector currently employs more than 6,000 Guyanese, including 1,800 working offshore, in roles spanning engineering, environmental sciences, health and safety, logistics, finance, information technology and project support — many tied directly to UG programmes. He added that since 2015, hundreds of billions of Guyanese dollars have been spent with local suppliers, creating further opportunities for UG business, accounting and economics graduates.
Canadian mining firm G-Mining Ventures, which is developing a US$1.5 billion gold project in Region 7, also participated, with Talent Acquisition Lead Akedia Patterson saying the company — currently in its construction phase — is actively seeking carpenters, welders, pipe fitters and electricians, among others, with more opportunities expected once operations begin.
Beharry Group Limited’s HR Head Gillian Chevrotiere highlighted openings across the conglomerate’s wide portfolio, including in human resources, digital, finance, procurement, manufacturing and its restaurant operations, as well as new opportunities arising from a joint venture with technology company AMBER Technologies.
Other major participants included Halliburton, Demerara Distillers, MODEC and SBM Offshore, alongside public sector entities such as the Ministry of Education, Guyana Power and Light, the National Insurance Scheme, Guyana Water Incorporated and the Guyana Defence Force.
The Open Day and Job Fair concludes on Saturday.
