There are several ways to become involved in aquaculture in Guyana. By contacting NAAG for support, you can become an investor, farmer, or simply a member. If you are a student who wants to support the development of aquaculture in Guyana by working directly with farms, supporting the development of aquaculture in Guyana the Guyana School of Agriculture offers a Certificate in Fisheries Studies. Read below for information.

Guyana School of Agriculture: Certificate in Fisheries Studies

Background
Mission Statement
Objectives of Course
Course Content
Entry Requirements
Faculty
Fees
Training Methods, Facilities & Resources
Additional Resources
Further Details

BACKGROUND

GSA was established in 1963, essentially to produce middle level technicians and skilled practitioners in the area of general agriculture. Over the years specialist training in the areas of Forestry and Animal Health and Veterinary Public Health have also been offered. Recent interest by local fishing industry stakeholders, in training persons in various aspects of marine and inland capture fishing, as well as aquaculture, has prompted GSA to offer a one year certificate course in Fisheries Studies. Given the high level of dependence on on-the-job training by the Department of Fisheries, for its entry level personnel, and the fact that the industry needs data collectors, processing plant and vessel quality control personnel etc., such a move is justified. Additionally, Guyana, with its extensive coastline and inland waters, has the potential to enhance its reputation as a supplier of quality marine products, at both the domestic and export level, if it were to encourage the formal training of persons actively involved in Fisheries and Aquaculture. >> top

MISSION STATEMENT

We believe that “Education is the best Investment” and that our mission is to promote and support the development of sustainable Agriculture and Forestry through technological advancement and the theoretical and practical training of individuals pursuing careers in Agriculture and Forestry. >> top

OBJECTIVES OF COURSE

To support the development of the local & regional fishing industries by producing a cadre of trained technicians.

To provide the type of training that stimulates varied and diverse entrepreneurial fisheries activities among graduating students.

To produce individuals with excellent life skills and high moral and ethical values.

To provide a foundation for, and stimulate interest in, further fisheries studies.>> top

COURSE CONTENT

English Language
Mathematics
Computer Studies
Physical Science
Physical Education
Fisheries Biology
General Management
Practicals
Marine & Inland Water Biodiversity
Global Fisheries
Water & Marine Species Exploitation
Issues In Fisheries
Fishing Gear & Technology
Guyana’s Fishing Industry
Fisheries Assessment & Management
Marketing Marine Products
Introduction to Aquaculture
Aquaculture II
Special Project in Aquaculture/Fisheries
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ENTRY REQUREMENTS

Either one of the the following:

  1. CXC or GCE 0’ Level in THREE Subjects, Grade I, II & III. Preference will be given to persons with English, Mathematics, Agriculture Science or Integrated Science.
  2. Mature students with a sound Secondary Education.>> top

FACULTY

The institution is headed by a Principal and the Fisheries Studies program is coordinated by a trained professional who is assisted by part-time lecturers and staff drawn mainly from the Department of Fisheries of the Ministry of Agriculture. Additionally, many of the foundation courses are delivered by full-time staff and specialist part-time lecturers.>> top

FEES

Fees cover mainly accommodation, three meals/day, laboratory and field trips, recreational, student activities and medical insurance. Fees are payable in full at the start of each school term or at the start of the programme. >> top

TRAINING METHOD, FACILITIES & RESOURCES

Training is conducted mainly through formal lectures, laboratory work, field visits and practical sessions, using tried and tested instructional methodologies and strategies, supported of course, by modern teaching and instructional aids. Extensive use will be made of the school’s library; computer and other labs and infrastructure; The Mon Repos Aquaculture Station; the varied resources of the private sector, especially processing facilities; and the vessels, gear and equipment of fisherman’s co-operatives and aquaculture farmers.>> top

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Application & Selection:
Applications for entry are received throughout the year. Students must be at least 17 years of age and submit applications in their own hand writing, usually on prescribed forms. Short listed applicants will be invited to an interview and those selected will be notified by August. Selected students must be certified medically fit, by a qualified Medical Doctor.

Enrolment:
Students must register as directed by the School’s administration, at the start of each term, as full time residential students.

Sponsorship:
Several governmental and non-governmental agencies and organization sponsor students from time to time. These include The Public Service Ministry, The Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, The Hinterland Department, Rotary Club Etc. The onus is on the student to find sponsorship.

Social Life:
Indoor and outdoor activities are organized on an Inter-house basis, to provide competition among students. Additionally, competition between students and staff members in the field of cricket and football is not uncommon.

The school also allows for external competition (e.g.) Intervarsity games. There is an ANNUAL CROSS COUNTRY RACE open to students and staff members. This activity is a tradition at the school and is eagerly anticipated by everyone.

Students are encouraged to organize various cultural and extra curricular activities through their elected representatives, i.e. the Student Council.

Matriculation:
The Certificate in Fisheries Studies matriculates to the Diploma in Agriculture offered by GSA. The institution is its-self accredited to the University of Guyana and other regional institutions of higher learning. >> top

FURTHER DETAILS

Applications for entry should be addressed to:

The Principal
Guyana School of Agriculture
Mon Repos
East Coast Demerara
Guyana
South America

Additional information can be obtained by calling:

Telephone #: 220-8958
220-8953
220-2808
220-8955
OR
Fax: 220-2297

Email: gsa.campus@gmail.com

Website: www.agrinetguyana.org.gy
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With Support From
USAID - Guyana
2007 All Rights Reserved NAAG