PARAMARIBO, Suriname, CMC – The Suriname Business Forum (SBF) urges the authorities to adopt a uniform local content policy and broader awareness of regional entrepreneurship.
“These companies and organizations must be adequately equipped to respond to pressing issues associated with offshore oil and gas developments,” the SBF said, adding that the issues were raised at the recently concluded fourth Suriname Energy, Oil & Gas Summit (SEOGS).
It said that the ideal scenario would be for this event to provide the opportunity for local entrepreneurship to gain insight into the preparations needed to respond optimally to offshore developments.
The SBF said one of the pillars of this policy should be the focus on employee education, training, and competency development. It noted that local companies/organizations need well-trained and skilled employees who have the necessary skills and can work under conditions that meet the standards of ‘decent work.’
It said this means setting up programs aimed at providing quality vocational education and training tailored to the local market’s needs.
The SBF emphasizes the need to prepare employees to work sustainably in local companies under conditions of ‘decent work,’ ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The SBF said that the policy’s adoption is urgent and called on the government to work with the private sector and educational institutions to develop a coherent and effective policy.
“The collaboration should create a supportive environment where local businesses can flourish. This includes financial and technical support and policy measures aimed at removing bureaucratic obstacles and encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship.
“In addition, it is essential that key actors in society, including employer organizations, trade unions, and civil society organizations, are involved in formulating and implementing these policy measures,” the SBF said, noting that ‘only through a joint effort can we ensure that our employees are well prepared for the challenges of the modern labor market and that our local companies can compete on both a national and international level.”
Local companies should be seen as essential partners in the offshore industry and actively promoted for their participation.
“Suriname’s future depends on our ability to develop robust and resilient local entrepreneurship,” the SBF said, adding, “We stand ready to work with the government and other stakeholders towards a prosperous future for our country.
“We urgently call on the government and relevant stakeholders to take action. A transparent and inclusive policy needs to be clarified to develop local entrepreneurship. A robust local content policy is necessary for economic growth and the social and sustainable development of Suriname.”
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