Press release
Paramaribo, June 24, 2026
TotalEnergies EP Suriname B.V. (TEPSR), together with the Ministry of Education, Science and Culture, the Ministry of Oil, Gas and Environment, the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Labor, and Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V., has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen workforce development in Suriname.
The MoU is set for an initial duration of four years. The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration to align education and training with labor market demand, with a particular focus on the offshore oil and gas industry. It also supports the development of skills relevant to the broader economy, contributing to economic diversification and sustainable sectors.
Under the agreement, the parties will work together to review and adapt oil, gas and energy-related programs in line with international industry standards. The collaboration also includes the upgrade of laboratories and technical training facilities, as well as the delivery of training programs for teachers and instructors.
“This partnership supports our Local Content approach in Suriname. Through GranMorgu, our objective is to ensure that skills, jobs, local businesses and institutions grow together with the project, helping strengthen local capabilities that can deliver lasting benefits for Suriname,” said Artur Nunes da Silva, Country Chair and General Manager, TotalEnergies EP Suriname B.V.
TotalEnergies and Staatsolie will contribute to strengthening technical education and training by bringing technical expertise and industry experience. This includes supporting the review and adaptation of programs, as well as the upgrade of selected training infrastructure and facilities, in line with industry standards.
“Staatsolie implicit mission is the advancement of our society. To contribute to Suriname becoming a developed country where every citizen has a good standard of living and many opportunities to grow. To show the world that we can do anything we put our minds to, with confidence in our own abilities. Quality education is core to this mission, and certainly supporting the upcoming youth is heartening and deeply fulfilling for Staatsolie,” said Annand Jagesar, Managing Director, Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V”.
Government institutions will support the integration of updated curricula into the national education system and ensure alignment with education and labor policies, while also facilitating the development of vocational training programs aligned with national priorities.
“This MOU supports the policy of leaving no one behind and equal access to education. Furthermore, it also improves the quality of our vocational training for the needs of the oil and gas sector including other sectors. The MOU is in addition based on a sustainable improvement of our educators and the technical equipment needed for practical education,” said Minister Dirk Currie, Ministry of Education, Science and Culture
"We believe that a sustainable future begins with the choices we make today by investing in local capacity and creating lasting value for generations to come,” said Minister Patrick Brunings, Ministry of Oil, Gas and Environment.