Chinese Ambassador, H.E. WU Peng, presents an award to one of the deserving students (Photo/Abu Bakarr Kargbo)

The Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Wu Peng, awarded scholarships to deserving students in the University of Sierra Leone at a ceremony held at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to Sierra Leone on Oct. 31, displaying his commitment to the government’s priority on education. 

The scholarships were awarded as recognition of the Ambassador in academics, the understanding of China and contribution of China-Sierra Leone friendship. These scholarships serve as the fruit of longstanding cooperation between the Chinese Embassy and the University of Sierra Leone in supporting education in the West African country.

During the scholarship interviews, the Embassy learned that many of the students are troubled by economic constraints, meaning they cannot easily afford tuition fees. Some of the students work part-time to support themselves, while others help their parents.

“In your efforts, we see the spirit of perseverance and self-reliance, of which we highly appreciate and respect,” says Ambassador Wu, adding that as a friend that attaches great importance in building human capacity, the Chinese Embassy always stands ready to help poverty-stricken Sierra Leonean students fulfill their studies and realize their dreams.

Beneficiaries with dignitaries at the ceremony held in Freetown (Photo/Abu Bakarr Kargbo)

Under Sierra Leone’s New Direction Agenda, President Julius Maada Bio has prioritized quality education, deeming it as a strong pillar for the country’s development and the moral regeneration and revival of its people.

The Chinese have been in full support of the New Direction Agenda and have pledged to continue to contribute to its success.

Earlier this year, 111 Sierra Leonean students embarked on a study trip to China with funding from the Chinese Government. Furthermore, hundreds of Sierra Leoneans have also benefited from short-term training programs and courses provided by the Chinese Government.

“The key to sound relations between states lies in the affinity between their peoples. As the Chinese Ambassador in Sierra Leone, I am dedicated to promoting people to people and cultural exchanges between the two countries,” Ambassador Wu assured. He encouraged the beneficiaries to learn more about Chinese culture at the Confucius Institute at the University of Sierra Leone.

Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Dr. Turad Senesie, commended the Chinese Ambassador for his unflinching support towards the ideals of education. “We believe we can move Sierra Leone forward with quality education and China has provided opportunities such as training and other educational support over the years,” he remarked. The Deputy Minister stated that China is moving at a faster pace because it has built its human capacity over time, and this is what the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone is bringing to the West African country.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sierra Leone, Prof. Sahr Foday, said he appreciates China's assistance in helping deserving students achieve their dreams. With overwhelming Chinese support, he said many Sierra Leoneans have studied and are currently studying in China, adding that this has led to more university students studying the Chinese language at the Confucius Institute. Prof. Foday urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the opportunity given to them by the Chinese Embassy, and assured them that university authorities would provide necessary guidance.