In anticipation of what has long been predicted as the country’s imminent major oil find, the authorities in Suriname are reportedly positioning a local secondary technical school to commence oil and gas training.
A week ago the authorities staged a ceremonial opening of the institution – Natin-MBO Natuurtechnisch Instituut – which is spearheading the oil and gas training programme. The opening included the admission of thirty students to the 18-month programme. Classes were expected to commence last Monday.
This development is reportedly the result of collaboration between the Surinamese state-owned oil company, Staatsolie, the Ministry of Education, Science and Culture in Paramaribo, the Surinamese business community, and the various international oil companies that are active in Suriname.
President Chandrikapersad Santokhi who launched the programme joined Staatsolie’s Chief Executive Officer, Annand Jagesar, in stressing the importance of training for the country and its citizens for maximizing the benefits of the development of the Surinamese offshore oil and gas industry.
On October 31, thirty students commenced classes. The group comprised NATIN graduates in the fields of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and process engineering, who were selected through a transparent procedure. The course focusses specifically on the development of knowledge and skills required to perform work in the oil and gas industry and related sectors.
The programme lasts a year and a half and is divided into three six-month phases. It will seek to be part of an incremental process that will educate participants to international standards.
