UG mechanical lab upgrades with new equipment through ExxonMobil’s $10M support

The University of Guyana (UG) has taken another stride in its mission to deliver world-class engineering education with the enhancement of its Mechanical Lab at the Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FET).
The upgrade was made possible through a $10 million (US$50,000) grant from ExxonMobil Guyana, and includes new industrial-grade equipment aimed at improving hands-on learning and technical innovation, the university noted.
The upgraded facility was officially launched during a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on June 9, 2025, at the Turkeyen Campus.
It forms part of UG’s long-term vision outlined in Blueprint 2040, which includes goals focused on advancing science, technology, engineering, and innovation and ensuring students are equipped for the rapidly evolving local and global economy.
The newly procured equipment includes two Smithy Granite XT 3-in-1 machines, a Miller Multimatic 215 Multi-process Welding Plant, and a Jet HVBS-712DV Horizontal/Vertical Bandsaw 7″ X 12″ Deluxe. These replace older machines that had been in use since 1979, when they were first donated by the British Council.
In her remarks, Vice-Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin explained that the upgrade is only the beginning.
“We’re not only speaking about becoming a world-class university; we have a plan, and we are working that plan to get us there,” Professor Mohamed Martin said.
“While we are delighted that students now have access to this equipment, we also urge them to take care of it, not just for themselves, but for the many others who will benefit in the years ahead,” the Vice-Chancellor advised.
Third- and fourth-year mechanical engineering students Joshua Joseph, Ezron Bishop, and Dwayne De Costa shared their collective gratitude. They said the upgrade significantly enhances the lab, as it will help to bridge the gap between theory and practice and provide the tools to develop real-world skills and open up new opportunities to work on meaningful projects and enter competitions.
Joshua Joseph stated that “These are not just tools or machines; they represent opportunities for hands-on learning and real-world experience. So, previously, with inadequate resources, we didn’t have much practical experience. However, with these new additions, we can now work within our own lab to complete projects. As you know, we can just do more than just read from a textbook. So, we can now design, build, test, and improve real mechanical components; develop research prototypes; participate in student competitions, which we are planning to do shortly; and projects like making go-karts, which we have done, and solar-powered devices; and also engage in small-scale manufacturing or repairs within the university.”
Meanwhile, Ezron Bishop thanked Exxon Mobil for the support, stating, “Your gifts have not only enabled us to complete hands-on projects, but they also allowed us to personally develop our technical skills. We promise to make use of the equipment to learn, to grow, and to carry forward the value of hands-on engineering experiences. Your investment in this faculty has played a significant role in enhancing the quality of engineering education that we receive. And it is not only shaping our individual futures but also the future of engineering within Guyana.”