20 students awarded USD$1,000 in Guyana-China youth competition

The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, in partnership with the Education Ministry’s Allied Arts Unit (AAU), has awarded a cash prize of US$1,000 each to two exemplary students from each of the 10 educational districts who placed first and second in the Guyana-China Friendship Youth Leadership Development Competition 2024.
The 2024 competition, which was the fourth carried out thus far, focused on the importance of youth leadership in Guyana, and involved students from grades eight to ten.
Regional coordinators, alongside head teachers, coaches, and community members, played a key role in screening and ranking applicants.
To compete, students had to complete five key tasks: Community-Based Projects – Conduct a survey, analyse data, and execute a project based on the findings. Essay and Project Report – Write a short essay and report on their project. Critique of a Guyanese Work of Art – Analyse a poem, song, dance, or visual art piece. Artistic Production – Create their own work of art (e.g., a dance, painting, or performance). Physical Fitness Challenge – Participate in a structured fitness assessment.

At the end of the competition, students were required to present their work in an overall presentation.
During the award ceremony on Friday at the Chinese Embassy, Head of the Ministry’s AAU, Nicholas Fraser, shared the vision behind the competition.
“We wanted to forge positive relationships among youths, their families, schools, and communities. We also aimed to strengthen academic, soft, and technical skills while offering young people opportunities to execute meaningful community projects that create real impact.”

Fraser emphasised that the competition treats youth participants as equal partners, encouraging them to engage with their communities, schools, peer groups, and families in constructive and productive ways.
“The youth leaders here today exemplify moral values, intelligence, sports excellence, artistic talent, and community service. This award ceremony recognises their achievements in the 2024 Guyana-China Friendship Youth Leadership Development Competition.”
In fact, it was revealed that very soon, he will receive confirmation from the Chinese Embassy that they are ready to launch the 2025 edition of the competition.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Education Officer (DCEO), Marti De Souza, speaking on behalf of Education Minister Priya Manickchand, highlighted the competition’s impact on youth development.
“This competition provides a powerful platform for our young people to foster collaboration, creativity, and leadership while strengthening the bond between Guyana and the People’s Republic of China. It reflects a shared commitment to education, youth empowerment, and global cooperation,” he stated.

He also emphasised how international partnerships in education benefit Guyana, noting: “This initiative symbolises a deepening of our ties on many levels—political, cultural, and educational. By empowering our young leaders, we are building from strength to strength.”
De Souza also encouraged continued efforts in youth development and international collaboration.
“As we look to the future, let us build on the momentum created by this competition. Let us continue to encourage our young people to think critically, act with compassion, and lead with integrity. Together, we can ensure a brighter future not only for Guyana but for our global community,” he told persons at the event.
Meanwhile while giving closing remarks, China’s Charge d’Affaires, Huang Rui, addressed the youths, saying, “Young people dare to do what you love, try your best to complete your journeys from dream to reality, and regardless of our circumstances we must strive for the greatness, putting no limitation in our aspirations. Think big and you will reach far!”
The success of this programme relies on collaboration with various stakeholders, including schools, Parent-Teacher Associations, departments within the Ministry of Education, Government and non-Governmental organisations, the private sector, and the wider community.