ExxonMobil Guyana uses AI and trains 60 teachers in STEM
Guyana · ENERGY
Key Facts
- —What happened ExxonMobil Guyana used AI to identify four new exploration opportunities in the Stabroek Block.
- —How big Sixty pre-service secondary school educators will start math and science training in August 2026.
- —The catch The company has not confirmed if the four opportunities contain commercial hydrocarbons or disclosed locations.
- —Who pays The teacher training is part of the company’s US$100 million, 10-year STEM Initiative.
- —What comes next The two-year STELLAR program runs through the Cyril Potter College of Education, starting August 2026.
- —When The AI findings were reported August 13; the teacher launch was August 24, 2026.
Two separate initiatives from the oil major: AI-powered exploration and STEM teacher training.
ExxonMobil Guyana made two separate announcements in August 2026. One involves AI identifying new oil opportunities, the other trains 60 teachers in STEM.
AI finds new exploration opportunities
On August 13, 2026, World Oil reported that ExxonMobil Guyana used artificial intelligence to find four new exploration opportunities. The AI reviewed historical discoveries, drilling results, and subsurface data in the Stabroek Block.
The company applied deep learning, machine learning, and high-performance computing to improve exploration decisions. Advanced seismic imaging helped identify these four potential sites.
A related report from ExxonMobil’s Q2 2026 earnings call confirmed the models were trained on past discoveries. The work produced four new discovery opportunities, but details remain limited.
The operator has not confirmed whether these opportunities contain commercial hydrocarbons. The company also has not disclosed their exact locations or estimated volumes.
Teacher training program launched
On August 24, 2026, ExxonMobil Guyana announced the Guyana STEM Teacher Training program. The initiative is called Enhancing Learning, Leadership and Academic Rigour, or STELLAR.
Sixty pre-service secondary school educators from across Guyana will begin specialized math and science training. The program starts in August 2026 through the Cyril Potter College of Education.
STELLAR is a two-year initiative under the company’s larger STEM effort. It is part of the US$100 million, 10-year Guyana STEM Initiative.
The program aims to strengthen STEM teaching capacity nationwide. It also seeks to improve student outcomes in mathematics and science across Guyana.
AI technology explained simply
the company uses AI to analyze large amounts of geological data quickly. This helps the company decide where to drill for oil and gas.
The AI models learn from previous discoveries and drilling operations. They also study subsurface characterization to predict where oil might exist.
This approach speeds up exploration and reduces risks for the company. It also helps find opportunities that traditional methods might miss.
The four new opportunities are a result of this advanced technology. However, more work is needed to confirm their commercial value.
STEM training details for teachers
The 60 pre-service teachers will receive specialized training in mathematics and science. They will study at the Cyril Potter College of Education, starting in August 2026.
This training is designed for secondary school educators across Guyana. It aims to build strong teaching skills for the next generation of students.
The program is part of a long-term commitment by the company. The US$100 million, 10-year initiative supports STEM education nationwide.
By training 60 teachers, the program hopes to reach many more students. This effort aligns with Guyana’s growing need for skilled STEM graduates.
Separate announcements, same month
The AI exploration findings came first on August 13, 2026. The teacher training launch followed on August 24, 2026.
Both are the company initiatives but are not connected as one program. They address different needs in the country’s development.
The AI work focuses on offshore oil exploration in the Stabroek Block. The teacher training focuses on education and workforce development onshore.
These announcements show the company’s broad investments in the country. They cover both energy production and human capacity building.
What this means for Guyana
For Guyana, the AI exploration could lead to new oil discoveries. This would boost the country’s economy and energy exports.
The teacher training helps build a local workforce for future industries. It supports math and science education in secondary schools.
Both initiatives signal long-term confidence in Guyana by the company. The company made its first Stabroek Block discovery in 2015 and now has more than 30.
The country relies on oil revenues for economic growth. Education investment aims to prepare citizens for diverse opportunities.
The role of local institutions
The Cyril Potter College of Education will deliver the teacher training. This institution is key to Guyana’s teacher preparation system.
the company partners with the Cyril Potter College of Education to ensure training relevance. This collaboration helps meet the specific needs of Guyana’s classrooms.
For the AI work, the company uses its global technology expertise. The company brings advanced tools from its worldwide operations.
This ensures compliance with Guyana’s oil and gas laws.
Next steps for both initiatives
the company will continue evaluating the four AI-identified opportunities. The company needs to determine if they hold commercial reserves.
If promising, the company may drill test wells in the future. This process could take months or years to complete.
The STELLAR teacher training will run for two years until about 2028. The 60 teachers will graduate with enhanced STEM teaching skills.
the company may expand the program based on results. The company has committed to a 10-year STEM effort in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did ExxonMobil Guyana announce in August 2026?
ExxonMobil Guyana made two announcements: using AI to find four new exploration opportunities in the Stabroek Block, and launching the STELLAR program to train 60 pre-service teachers in STEM.
How does the AI exploration work?
The company uses deep learning, machine learning, and seismic imaging to analyze data from past discoveries. This identified four new exploration opportunities, but their commercial value is not yet confirmed.
What is the STELLAR teacher program?
STELLAR (Enhancing Learning, Leadership and Academic Rigour) is a two-year math and science training for 60 pre-service secondary teachers. It starts in August 2026 at the Cyril Potter College of Education.
How much does ExxonMobil Guyana invest in education?
The teacher training is part of a US$100 million, 10-year Guyana STEM Initiative. This broader program aims to strengthen STEM teaching and student outcomes across the country.
When will the results of the AI exploration be known?
The company has not published a timeline for confirming commercial hydrocarbons. The company has not disclosed locations or volumes for the four opportunities yet.
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Sources
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