Four hundred (400) of Guyana’s youths gathered, on Saturday, January 12th, 2019 for the Volunteer Youth Corps’ Incorporated 6th Annual Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) conference.

Held at the Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel, the event sponsored by ExxonMobil catered for students from approximately 14 schools across the country.

In brief remarks, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), VYC, Goldie Scott, explained that since 2012, VYC has been hosting its After-School Interactive Math and Science Program, now STEM. Through support from ExxonMobil and approval from the Ministry of Education it has made a few adjustments.

The programme is aimed at boosting the youth’s capabilities, Goldie Scott said. It aims to help in the development of the nation’s future leaders by equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge for the modern working environment.

“Today’s event will be no different in showcasing creativity, we want to challenge your mind to be innovative and creative and to think outside the box and do so using the approach of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. We believe, that in partnership with ExxonMobil, this is the vehicle to propel you to achieve that potential,” Scott explained.

She noted that the agency will remain committed to be an avenue through which young people can be equipped with the necessary skills and techniques to achieve their full potential.

ExxonMobil, Geo-science Manager, Doug Mc Gehee thanked the students for their participation. He also noted the increased interest in the programme as one which not only the agency, but the country will appreciate.

“It has to do with the oil and gas business it is a very high-tech business and when we look at our future we will be in Guyana for a very long time and so when we look at our own employees for the future…. We hire people that have technical education, that has an understanding in science technology, mathematics, but more importantly the way that we work, the way ExxonMobil works as a team, innovation and problem- solving is important,” Mc Gehee explained. He further said that this initiative will also create ambassadors who will make others understand what the company is doing in the country.

Assistant to the Minister of State, Dr. Astell Collins said that while the country is considered wealthy, it is impoverished mentally hence he applauded all for undertaking such an initiative which creates and cultivates an environment that speaks to the value of youths.

“You are the treasure chest to the country’s development,” he said.

By Neola Damon