By Delicia Janneire | November 5, 2024
The Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC), in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the United Nations, has launched a comprehensive one-year national sawmilling training program.
The initiative, unveiled at the Commission’s multi-complex in Kingston, is designed to improve sustainability within the forestry sector and expand the value-added chain of forest products.
The program will train over 200 sawmill operators, focusing on enhancing technical skills to meet industry standards and support the sector’s long-term sustainability.
As part of this initiative, vocational training courses will also be introduced at Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centers nationwide.
The training program aligns with the country’s development strategies, including the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, and addresses the need for efficient lumber production and resource recovery in the growing forestry and construction industries.
Key components of the initiative include the establishment of a model sawmill at Yarrowkabra, which will also house a consolidated log yard and a joinery workshop.
These facilities are expected to serve as training hubs, demonstrating the complete transformation process from raw logs to finished tertiary products such as plywood.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance Guyana’s forestry sector, positioning it to contribute more effectively to the country’s economic growth while ensuring environmental sustainability.
It is also anticipated to boost market access for locally produced value-added forestry goods, meeting increasing domestic and international demand.
This training program is one of several ongoing projects aimed at supporting the modernization of Guyana’s forestry operations and ensuring their alignment with global standards.