President Jennifer Simons of Suriname has declared vocational education the fundamental driver for broadening the nation’s economic base. During an orientation visit to the Natural Technical Institute (Natin) on Thursday, accompanied by Education Minister Dirk Currie, Simons emphasized that technical training must reduce dependency on emerging oil and gas revenues and strengthen other productive sectors.
Simons observed student demonstrations at the institute while arguing that despite oil and gas opportunities, Suriname must avoid single-sector dependency. She advocated for enhanced development in agro-industry, tourism, and manufacturing to reduce import reliance. The President also stressed the necessity of discipline and strong work ethics, noting: ‘While oil and gas revenues flow in, relatively few work directly in that sector. We must produce enough skilled professionals to develop other industries.’
Education Minister Currie reinforced that Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) should not be considered a secondary option but rather a crucial national investment. He referenced the ‘Three Cs’ principle—Competence, Craftsmanship, and Character—asserting that character development is indispensable for thriving in a rapidly evolving global landscape. ‘The world demands individuals who can execute, construct, and innovate. Competence and craftsmanship take you far, but character carries you much further,’ Currie emphasized.
Natin Director Iwan Ganga disclosed that the institution currently enrolls over 2,700 students across 18 specialized programs. This year, Natin expanded to Moengotapoe to improve accessibility. Ganga cautioned against excessive focus on oil and gas, stating: ‘We must prevent creating a society with unidirectionally trained professionals. We aim to respond to significant demand from other sectors, including agriculture.’
The presidential visit concluded with a tour of newly upgraded facilities, including practical workshops partially equipped by oil companies and Staatsolie. The institute will host another high-profile delegation next week—the Dutch royal couple during their December 1-3 visit to Suriname.