Five United States (US) universities are bringing international higher education opportunities closer to Guyanese students through an educational fair showcasing academic programmes and pathways for young people seeking to pursue tertiary education abroad.
The US Embassy hosted the 2026 EducationUSA University Fair on Friday, at the Atlantic Suites Hotel, Seawall Road, Kingston, Georgetown, giving Guyanese students an opportunity to meet representatives from US colleges and universities, explore academic programmes, and learn about the application and student visa processes.
The five universities that participated in the fair are Florida International University, Montclair State University, Monroe University, Savannah College of Art and Design, and the University of Wyoming.
Speaking at the event, US Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission John Crippen encouraged students to take advantage of the opportunity to broaden their understanding of the wide range of educational opportunities available in the US and the pathways they can pursue to access them.
Crippen highlighted the longstanding reputation of US universities for excellence and innovation, noting that the institutions participating in the fair were in Georgetown to engage with Guyanese students and expose them to the educational opportunities available in the United States.
He pointed to the country’s achievements over the past 250 years, including advancements in space exploration, technology, medicine and vaccine development, as evidence of its investment in research and innovation.
He further noted that US universities are consistently ranked among the best globally, offering students more than specialised academic training by equipping them with critical thinking, problem-solving, innovation and cross-cultural collaboration skills. He added that Guyanese students are already making valuable contributions to this tradition.
“A US education reaches far beyond the classroom. It changes individual lives, and it builds a network of capable, resilient leaders ready to work together on the world’s hardest problems, we want you to understand what a US education offers and exactly how to pursue one. So I encourage you to visit every booth, ask all the questions, collect information, and don’t be intimidated.”
Meanwhile, Crippen highlighted the opportunities emerging from Guyana’s expanding economy, particularly its booming energy sector, telling students that the growth of new industries has increased the demand for skilled professionals.
“Guyana is at a remarkable moment in its history. The energy sector is booming. New industries are emerging. The demand for skilled professionals in every field has never been higher. Guyana needs people who are trained at the highest levels, who have global networks, and who come home ready to lead. For decades, the United States has invested in the people of Guyana through exchange programmes, scholarships, and the lasting relationships that US universities build with students from around the world. We do that because we believe in what Guyanese students do when they come home to strengthen Guyana.”
Benefits of pursuing higher education
Meanwhile, Guyanese athlete Arinze Chance, who attended the University of South Carolina on an athletic scholarship, highlighted the benefits of pursuing higher education in the US. Drawing on his personal experience, Chance encouraged students to embrace opportunities at foreign universities while recognising the responsibilities and commitment required to succeed abroad.
“But there was something else that I learned while at university, and that dealt with consequences. Every action has a consequence. So as you learn today about the journey that it requires for you to first be accepted into a university and then travel, leaving your parents, one thing that I’m telling you you’re probably not prepared for is the responsibility that comes with no one telling you what time to go to sleep, no one waking you up, no one telling you when to go to class.”
He urged students to remain prepared for opportunities, emphasising the importance of making the most of interactions with university representatives and prioritising the information shared with them. He encouraged them to adopt the mindset of “stay ready so you don’t have to get ready,” noting that preparation would allow them to capitalise on opportunities as they arise.
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