MNR Launches 2025 Youth Apprenticeship Programme in Natural Resources

The Ministry of Natural Resources on Tuesday launched the 2025 edition of its Youth in Natural Resources (YNR) Apprenticeship Programme, offering young people aged 16 to 25 the chance to gain practical experience in Guyana’s fast-growing natural resource sectors.

The launch ceremony was held at the Guyana Forestry Commission and included remarks from Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat, who encouraged the participants to take full advantage of the opportunity. Bharrat, a former educator, stressed the role of youth in driving national development and shaping a sustainable future for Guyana.

This year’s programme is being led by Environmental Coordinator Arianna Seeraj, and will expose participants to various key agencies and departments. These include:

Ministry of Natural Resources

Guyana Geology and Mines Commission

Guyana Forestry Commission

Guyana Gold Board

Petroleum Division

Local Content Secretariat

Compliance Department

In addition to rotations through these government entities, the apprentices will engage with private sector companies in oil, gas, mining, and forestry. They will also be taken on a guided tour of the Gas-to-Energy Project site, one of Guyana’s flagship development projects.

The initiative, now in its latest cycle, continues to provide young Guyanese with hands-on exposure to technical and policy aspects of the natural resource industries—ranging from compliance and regulation to sustainable environmental practices.

The Ministry says the YNR programme remains a vital part of its mission to prepare the next generation for leadership roles in the country’s resource-driven economy, while instilling a sense of environmental responsibility and civic pride.