The Ministry of Education, Guyana, through the Guyana Strengthening Human Capital through Education Project (GSHCEP) funded by the World Bank, conducted a National Skills Audit over six months, beginning September 2023. The Guyana National Skills Audit Consultancy was aimed at assessing the current workforce landscape, identifying skills gaps across various economic sectors, and providing policy recommendations to enhance labour market relevance. This initiative was crucial for ensuring that Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs align with industry demands, thereby improving employment outcomes and supporting national economic growth. 

Canadian-based firm, Dunn Pierre Barnett & Company Canada Ltd. (DPBA), was selected to lead the study, collecting and analyzing data on workforce capabilities, employer needs, and training gaps. The project identified sectoral demands, recommended strategies for skills development, and proposed labour market interventions to bridge the gap between education and industry. Key areas of focus included oil and gas, construction, ICT, agriculture, manufacturing, finance, and renewable energy. A highly skilled team of international experts from Dunn Pierre Barnett & Company Canada Ltd. (DPBA) led the project. They were Dr. Justine Pierre (Team Leader and Labour Market Specialist & Statistician), Dr. Paulette Dunn-Pierre (TVET Specialist), Dr. Philomen Harrison (Economist & Statistician) and Mr. Tiemonne Charles (Statistician & IT Specialist).  

The Guyana National Skills Audit is centered around the country’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive development. To enhance living standards and provide decent employment opportunities, it is essential to focus on inclusive economic growth, skills development, and the modernization of the workforce. This will equip Guyanese youth with the relevant skills needed for a successful future.  Recommendations geared towards improving the labour market in the context of a booming oil and gas sector include the creation of a centralized database that tracks workforce skills, employment trends, and industry needs. The Labour Market Information System (LMIS) would provide real-time labor market insights and help policymakers, employers, and educators align skills training with current and future workforce demands. Additionally, modernizing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs and ensuring they align with industry requirements.  

Connect with us: 

Website: www.dpbglobal.com 

Email: info@dpbglobal.com 

Instagram: dpbglobal 

Twitter: DunnCanada 

Facebook: Dunn Pierre Barnett and Company Canada Limited