THE University of Guyana (UG) and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China recently strengthened their longstanding partnership with the launch of a China Book Corner at the university’s Turkeyen Campus, followed by a vibrant celebration of the 2026 Chinese Dragon Boat Festival that showcased the depth of cultural and educational ties between the two countries.
The twin events, led by University of Guyana’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin and China’s Ambassador to Guyana, Her Excellency Yang Yang, brought together students, faculty, diplomats and invited guests in a demonstration of the growing collaboration between Guyana and China in the areas of education, culture and international exchange.
The activities commenced at the University of Guyana Library with the official unveiling of the China Book Corner, a dedicated section established through a donation of books from the Chinese Embassy. The collection features publications on Chinese governance, poverty alleviation, modernisation, democracy, the rule of law, environmental protection and the country’s vision for global development.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Professor Mohamed Martin underscored the importance of education and cultural exchange in fostering international understanding and co-operation.
“The understanding of ourselves as a global community is the cornerstone of any progress towards peace and stability in our world,” she said. “Today, we celebrate not only our friendship with China but also our acknowledgement of its achievements and the importance of ensuring that our students and our country develop a deeper understanding of one of the world’s oldest civilisations.”
The Vice-Chancellor noted that relations between Guyana and China continue to expand through shared experiences in education, culture, literature, travel and people-to-people connections. She also expressed appreciation for China’s ongoing support to the university, including previous contributions to campus development.
Professor Mohamed Martin said the establishment of the China Book Corner would enrich the university’s academic resources and provide students with greater opportunities to explore Chinese history, culture and development.
Ambassador Yang described the initiative as another milestone in the strengthening partnership between the embassy and the University of Guyana.
“Through these books, I hope you can better understand the real China, not only its achievements but also its challenges,” the Ambassador said.
She noted that despite differences in size and population, Guyana and China share common aspirations, including improving the quality of life for their citizens, advancing development, promoting innovation and respecting cultural diversity.
University Librarian, Dr Simone Bernard, welcomed the donation, describing it as a valuable addition to the institution’s resources.
“The book donation will enable us to expand the horizons of our users, giving them access to new ideas, cultures and opportunities,” Dr Bernard said.
Following the launch of the China Book Corner, students, staff and guests gathered at the Education Lecture Theatre for the Chinese Dragon Boat Festival Food and Culture Celebration, hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China and the University of Guyana through the Confucius Institute.
The event attracted a large audience and featured traditional Chinese performances, cuisine and cultural presentations aimed at deepening appreciation for Chinese heritage and customs.
Director of the Confucius Institute, Al Creighton, provided an overview of the Dragon Boat Festival, also known as the Duanwu Festival, explaining its historical and cultural significance. He noted that the festival commemorates the life and legacy of Chinese poet Qu Yuan and is traditionally observed through dragon boat races and the sharing of symbolic foods.
Addressing attendees, Professor Mohamed Martin welcomed the opportunity to expose the university community to the richness of Chinese culture and cuisine and thanked Ambassador Yang and the Chinese Embassy for facilitating the event.
Ambassador Yang highlighted the role of food as a bridge between cultures, noting that the dishes showcased during the celebration represented various regions of China, including Cantonese dim sum and wontons, as well as northern Chinese baozi and soy milk.
She also pointed to similarities between Guyanese and Chinese culinary traditions, emphasising the importance of food in fostering social connections and strengthening communities.
The celebration concluded with cultural performances by the Confucius Institute and opportunities for attendees to sample a variety of traditional Chinese foods and beverages while participating in interactive cultural activities, further reinforcing the enduring friendship and co-operation between Guyana and China.