9 Guyanese awarded scholarships to pursue studies in China

A total of nine Guyanese have been awarded the opportunity to pursue post-graduate and undergraduate studies in China at various universities in numerous disciplines including finance, veterinary medicine, international economy, trade, civil works and art.
During an award ceremony held on Friday, the Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Guo Haiyan, highlighted that since the bilateral culture agreement was signed between China and Guyana in 1984, the Chinese Government has provided some 222 scholarships to Guyanese students thus far and will continue to do so in the years to come.
Haiyan added that with Guyana’s economy growing quickly, the country would require a large, quality workforce. She added that by the end of this year, some 56 persons will be trained in China through various courses.

“Guyana has embarked on the fast development track and embraces great historical opportunities. It is in dire need of a large number of quality workforce. Education and training are always important elements of cooperation between our two countries. Since the signing of the bilateral culture agreement in 1984, the Chinese Government has provided about 220 scholarships to Guyanese students and also organises a variety of bilateral and multi-lateral training courses,” Haiyan said at the awards ceremony.
Additionally, Manager of the Scholarships Division at the Public Service Ministry, Deomattie Seeram encouraged the awardees to take advantage of the opportunities given and use it to foster relationships with peers and other individuals.
“This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to your hard work, dedication, and academic excellence. This scholarship serves as a recognition of your potential and talent and I’m confident that you can make the most of this opportunity. Remember that this scholarship is not just financial support but also a responsibility and a privilege. Use this opportunity to expand your knowledge, broaden your horizons and make valuable connections with peers from all over the world,” Seeram encouraged.
She added “Take full advantage of all the resources, support, and guidance that will be available to you in China. Remember to stay focused but also take time to explore and enjoy the new environment. Congratulations on this outstanding achievement. Make Guyana, your loved ones, and even yourself proud.”
Meanwhile, Acting Director of the Department of International Cooperation within the Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ministry, Candida Daniels added that the Government of China has been instrumental in the development and capacity-building efforts of our country through many scholarships and training programmes.
“I wish to take this opportunity to express sincere gratitude to the Government of the People’s Republic of China for awarding these scholarships to our well-deserving Guyanese students. Scholarships and other training programmes from our development partners such as the Government of China continue to be an invaluable contribution to the capacity-building efforts of our country. The Government of Guyana and China have embarked on a number of projects and signed numerous agreements and these projects have aided and continue to aid in Guyana’s development in various areas,” Daniels remarked.
Speaking on behalf of the awardees, one of the scholarship recipients, 25-year-old Chabeeraj Francis, who will be pursuing his studies in Clinical Medicine for the academic period of 2024-2029, noted that the scholarships are not just financial aid but is it the embodiment of the commitment of both countries to foster educational advancement and nurture young minds.
“The scholarship nomination we have received is not merely a financial aid but a beacon of hope and an affirmation of our potential to make a difference. In this journey of academic pursuit, we are reminded of the tireless efforts put forth by the Chinese Embassy and the Ministry of Public Service in fostering educational advancement. Your unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds through scholarships is an embodiment of the profound friendship between our nations,” Francis shared on behalf of others.
This year, six scholarships were provided by China’s Central Government through China Scholarship Council and three were provided by Jiangsu provincial government. The scholarships are for a variety of academic disciplines ranging from studies in medicine, civil engineering, trade, finance, and art.
Last year, a total of twelve Guyanese were awarded scholarships to study in China in areas such as international trade and economy, applied psychology, international politics, and medicine among others.