World Bank-funded US$4.5M Medical Sciences building commissioned
Apr 03, 2025
Kaieteur News- President Irfaan Ali alongside other government, health and education officials on Tuesday officially commissioned the new US$4.5 million College of Medical Sciences building at the University of Guyana (UG).
The new US$6.9M College of Medical Sciences situated at the University of Guyana. (Photo courtesy, Ministry of Education)
The project, which was undertaken by the Ministry of Education, was funded by the World Bank and the Government of Guyana and executed by contractor Shandong Hi-Speed Dejian Group Co. Limited.
Set to accommodate some 200 students, the modern facility is equipped with a lecture theatre and several laboratories (biometric touchless labs) such as skills laboratory, an anatomy laboratory, biochemistry laboratory, histopathology laboratory, hematology laboratory, research laboratory, power plant, and a water treatment plant, among other amenities.
The project is part of the Ministry’s efforts to enhance the education sector, and will prepare more persons to be medically trained before entering the healthcare system.
President Ali said the conceptualisation of the project dates back to 2013. After several setbacks and engagements, he said his government is pleased to see it come to fruition.
The President said the government’s investment in such a state-of-the-art facility is to prepare and produce students to work at a world-class level in every field. Having invested some $13 billion in the University of Guyana this year, and making it a tuition-free institution, the President said Guyana and its people will be positioned as leaders in the global network.
“The medical college must be able to produce high-quality papers; must be able to be a part of an international network in which we can position ourselves as a leader. So, these investments are not just another piece of investment, we are investing in the best because there is a vision behind it, there is a strategy behind it,” he declared during his feature address.
The Head-of-State has continuously relayed his government’s vision of providing a world-class healthcare system for all. As such, the administration is investing in building human capacity and investing in the cutting-edge equipment, technology and modern facilities to provide these world-class services.
Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony, during his remarks, noted that the medical school, which started in 1985, was faced with a lot of constraints over the years; one being a space to properly accommodate students. With limited space available, it saw only a small number of persons entering the school.
He said the new building is important for the country and the continuation of medical education. “I am extremely happy that we have made such progress with the College of Medicine, and the students will no longer have to be nomadic, but they will have a place where they can call their own home.”
With six new hospitals expected to be commissioned this year and new technology and equipment being acquired, the Minister said more medical professionals will be needed to man these facilities.
Meanwhile, UG’s Vice Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohammed-Martin expressed gratitude for the completion of the modern building. She said the project is the culmination of decades of long-standing needs fulfilled, and it is a privilege to see it to fruition.
Dr. Mohamed-Martin said that with more modern classrooms and laboratories, the new edifice will allow the college to take in about 40 per cent more students.
“So, this single structure brings together in perfect synergy, all the hopes, dreams and aspirations of 1000s across time, space and disciplines. Our purpose is fueled by sacrifice and promise; our dreams were too powerful to be denied. The work of the school and the university is too impactful and critical to be unsupported. Those who enter these doors as hopefuls leave accomplished and burnished,” she expressed.
To those currently enrolled in the programme, the Vice Chancellor added, “Remember how fortunate you are, not only for these gifts, but also the state of our beautiful country which is now paying your fees. We hope that you’ll remember and pay it back for one well cared patient at a time.”
Further, to those who are coming to the school, she announced that the university will be opening the application process at midnight on April 2nd.
Speaking also was Director of Human Development for Latin America and the Caribbean of the World Bank, Dr. Jaime Saavedra, who said that the facility symbolises the government’s relentless commitment to advancing health and education. “We’re not merely integrating the state-of-the-art facility, we are integrating a vibrant hub of learning, discovery and innovation that is integral to building human capital in Guyana,” he mentioned.
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