The Natural Technical Institute (NATIN) inaugurated a fully renovated building on its school complex on Thursday, October 3, 2024. The renovation was made possible by a donation from Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V. and partners TotalEnergies, Capricorn, Chevron, QatarEnergy, and Decker Petroleum.

The multi-story building of NATIN, located on Jagernath Lachmonstraat in Paramaribo, was fully renovated. The renovation included the removal of asbestos roof panels, the installation of a new roof, new doors and windows, and a thorough repainting. The project cost approximately US$ 240,000, funded by Staatsolie, TotalEnergies, Capricorn, Chevron, QatarEnergy, and Decker Petroleum. With this donation, the companies aim to contribute to the technical education of young people, who in turn can contribute to their own development and that of Suriname. The building houses nine classrooms, a chemical, medical, and electrical lab, a library, and a computer room. Starting this school year, students will attend regular practical and computer lessons in a stimulating environment.

The building's renovation is part of the NATIN Upgrade project, which was initiated by Staatsolie in 2021 with a focus on local content development. The goal of this project is to deliver qualified graduates who can meet the emerging demand in Suriname's oil and gas industry and its spin-offs. Since the project’s inception, US$ 2 million has been invested, of which US$ 550,000 came from Staatsolie. This project focuses on all aspects necessary to guarantee quality education, such as good infrastructure, sufficient equipment and materials for practical education, up-to-date curriculum and teaching materials, and well-trained teachers.

Since the project began, new practical classrooms have been delivered, new equipment has been purchased, and classrooms have been built and fully equipped with essential apparatus. The project has the full support of NATIN, the Ministry of Education, Science and Culture, international oil companies active in Suriname, local companies, and international experts. As part of the NATIN Upgrade project, the Oil and Gas program also launched at NATIN in 2022. The first graduates will receive their certificates later this month.

"We hope that more companies will get involved."