UG opens China Book Corner

The University of Guyana (UG) on Monday unveiled its China Book Corner, a donation from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Guyana aimed at strengthening cultural and educational exchanges between the two countries. Speaking at the ceremony, Vice Chancellor (VC) Professor Paloma Mohamed-Martin highlighted the longstanding partnership between Guyana and China, noting the significance of the relationship and the opportunities it presents for learning and collaboration. Mohamed-Martin also spoke about the value of embracing cultural and linguistic differences, describing them as opportunities for growth and understanding.

“The language barrier, and I will say ‘barrier’ in euphemism, in inverted commas – is an opportunity for us not only to learn a different language, which is rooted in very old traditions, but also to learn about a culture and a people that are truly remarkable,” she added. Mohamed noted that the launch acknowledges China’s achievements and the importance of fostering a deeper understanding of the country among Guyanese students and citizens. She said such understanding is cultivated through books, conversations, cultural exchanges, food, travel and the relationships formed between people. Mohamed expressed delight at the opportunities being created to strengthen these connections and emphasised that learning from China’s accomplishments is an important part of that process.

Shared values, similarities
Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Yang Yang, stated that the books reflect the shared values and similarities between the two nations. According to her, “From these books, we can see that although China and Guyana are far apart and differ greatly in size and population, we share much in common. Both of us put people first. We care about improving people’s lives and their happiness.” She noted a recent initiative announced by President Dr Irfaan Ali, proposing a weekly family day that would close Main Street in Georgetown to create space for family gatherings, describing it as “a perfect idea”.
“Both of us have suffered from invasion and colonialism. That is why we treasure hard-won development opportunities. How to find a new engine of growth? How to build innovation? How to balance economic development with environmental protection – these are questions confronting us,” she said. She added that the books serve as a space for reflection and learning and that the books help readers slow down, calm down and think more deeply. She noted that the books being introduced at this time are all in English, adding that in the future they may also be available in Chinese. She described the content as rich and varied, explaining that some books tell stories about how Chinese leaders govern the country and how a nation of over one billion people has pursued modernisation. Others, she said, highlight how China has lifted hundreds of millions of people out of poverty, village by village. She expressed hope that the books would help readers gain a fuller understanding of China – not only its achievements, but also its challenges.
She further added, “We all have diverse cultures. Guyana has six peoples. People from different backgrounds celebrate each other’s festivals. China has 56 ethnic groups. We often say ethnic groups should be as tightly united as pomegranate seeds. Inclusiveness and unity are key spirits in both Chinese and Guyanese cultures. These commonalities lay a solid foundation for mutual understanding and learning.”
The ambassador encouraged students to view the China Book Corner as a space for reflection and discovery. “I hope you will see the China Book Corner as a small garden of ideas. When you feel tired or curious, come and browse. When you open a book, it is like opening a door. Behind that door is a dear friend – China. China is waiting to shake your hand, give you a hug, and move forward with you.”