The University of Guyana and local conglomerate, Banks DIH Limited, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will see the two entities collaborating to promote student development, academic partnerships, and knowledge transfer in the field of engineering.
The MOU was signed at Banks DIH Headquarters at Thirst Park, Georgetown last Thursday.
Singing on behalf of Banks DIH was the company’s Human Resources Director, Andrew Carto and Operations Director, Gavin Todd, while Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor Paloma Mohamed signed on behalf of the university.
In a joint statement, Banks DIH Limited and the University of Guyana, explained that under the agreement they will explore opportunities for student internships and the exchange of knowledge in areas of mutual interest.
The partnership will also facilitate the exchange of students and faculty members for research, training, and educational purposes, particularly as it relates to UG’s Faculty of Engineering and Technology.
Mr. Carto said Banks DIH is pleased to partner with the University of Guyana.
“We are eager to partner with the University of Guyana to leverage our strengths and expertise to address some of the most pressing challenges facing the industry and the emerging needs of both institutions. This partnership will provide us with access to talent while enabling us to contribute to the advancement of students, the institution, and education,” he said.
Weighing in on the new partnership, Banks DIH Operations Director, Gavid Todd, said he was pleased to see the process formalized, since it provides an opportunity for Banks DIH Limited to mould the country’s future engineers.
He said as a student, he benefitted tremendously from his attachment at Banks DIH Limited.
UG Vice Chancellor, Dr. Paloma Mohamed applauded Banks DIH Limited for collaborating with the university, and explained that “there is more complexity in the Guyana labour market now than there was five years ago. The challenges in the labour force in Guyana are growing, with the government and local private sector losing staff to the international private sector,” Professor Mohamed explained.
She added that companies should not wait until students graduate, but must begin thinking of more aggressive ways to engage students before they enter the university.
Professor Emanuel Cummings, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Engagement, said he believes the MOU will strengthen the training provided to engineering students.
Research and Development Officer & Coordinator, Associate for Arts General Studies Programme, Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Engagement, Suzette James; Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FET), Verlyn Klass; Banks DIH Human Resources Executive, Sharon Nelson; and Industrial Liason Officer (FET), Anil James were among other officials who witnessed the signing of the MoU.
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