THE University of Guyana (UG) has taken a significant step in its journey toward delivering world-class engineering education with the launch of its newly upgraded Mechanical Lab at the Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FET).

The enhanced facility, made possible through a $10 million (US$50,000) grant from ExxonMobil Guyana, now features modern, industrial-grade equipment aimed at enriching students’ practical skills and fostering innovation.

The upgraded lab was officially commissioned on June 9, 2025, during a ribbon-cutting ceremony held at UG’s Turkeyen Campus. The initiative aligns with the university’s ambitious development roadmap, Blueprint 2040, which prioritises the advancement of science, technology, engineering, and innovation to better prepare students for the demands of an evolving global economy.

Among the new equipment are two Smithy Granite XT 3-in-1 Machines, a Miller Multimatic 215 Multiprocess Welding Plant, a Baldor-Reliance Industrial Grinder 1217W, and a Jet HVBS-712DV Horizontal/Vertical Bandsaw. These additions replace machinery dating back to 1979, originally donated by the British Council.

The revitalisation effort was initiated by FET Laboratory Technologist Mr. Bruce Nigel Haynes, whose advocacy for updated equipment was later supported and advanced by UG Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin.

Speaking at the launch, Prof. Mohamed Martin stated, “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. 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.”

She also expressed heartfelt thanks to ExxonMobil Guyana for its continued partnership, noting that the company’s sustained support has been invaluable to both the university and its students.
Dean of the Faculty, Dr. Kofi Dalrymple, highlighted the educational impact of the modern equipment: “These tools are more than machines; they are the instruments that will allow our students to build their skills, work with purpose, and prepare to meet the real-world demands of the engineering profession. This investment reflects a shared vision with ExxonMobil to develop a stronger, more innovative Guyana.”
Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Ms. Elena Trim, echoed the sentiments of appreciation. “Words cannot express how happy we are about this donation. Our students will now have the tools they need to create, test, and refine their final-year projects. We’ve already seen their excitement and drive—it’s uplifting.”

Third- and fourth-year mechanical engineering students Joshua Joseph, Ezron Bishop, and Dwayne De Costa also expressed gratitude, emphasising that the new equipment will help bridge the gap between theory and practice, and offer new opportunities to work on meaningful projects and compete in engineering challenges.

Representing ExxonMobil Guyana, Community Relations Advisor, Ms. Lasawhna Prescott, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to education and STEM development in Guyana. “For ExxonMobil Guyana, we see education as the cornerstone of development. STEM in particular is a focus for us—not only to prepare young Guyanese for the oil and gas industry but to build their capacity for a much broader outlook. Collaborating with the University of Guyana has given us many opportunities and many successes that empower future leaders.”

Looking ahead, UG plans to further expand the Mechanical Lab’s capabilities by acquiring additional equipment, integrating interdisciplinary research, and strengthening partnerships with international academic and industry leaders.

This latest investment signals not only an upgrade in UG’s physical infrastructure but also its unwavering commitment to producing globally competent graduates capable of addressing current and future engineering and technological challenges.