Chinese and Sierra Leonean officials at the official opening ceremony on Saturday 30th March 2019

The Confucius Institute at the University of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the Academic and Career Advisory and Counseling Services (ACACS), recently held its second International Company Exhibition, Job Fair and Career Exposition in Freetown, Sierra Leone’s Capital. The development-oriented event attracted lots of Chinese and other private sector companies, who showcased job opportunities to young job seekers and university graduates.

The aim of the job fair and international company exhibition is to provide a platform where students, graduates and the general public can interact with companies, organizations and institutions from diverse sectors, as potential employers. It gives the opportunity for face-to-face discussions and also provides a stage for companies to showcase their essence and connection with the development of Sierra Leone.

Professor He Mingqing, Director of the Confucius Institute, described his Institute as a bridge between eastern and western civilization. “We are making efforts in communication and mutual learning among civilizations, managing to act as a good role model for mutual understanding and bonds of friendship between China and Sierra Leone, and try our best to serve the local people, so we are very happy to organize this event in collaboration with (ACACS),” he said.

Job seekers talk with Chinese companies

Economic and Commercial Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone, Zhang Xueqian, described employment as a cornerstone of the wellbeing and wellspring of wealth. He explained that today, investment has become the key engine of job creation and the Chinese Embassy encourages Chinese investment in Sierra Leone.

“With increasing Chinese companies investing and implementing China-aid projects here, employment has been hugely expanded,” Mr. Zhang said, citing an example to the Masiaka Highway Project, which has created more than 800 jobs for the local people, and has indirectly promoted the development of economy and trade throughout the whole country. He further explained that vocational education plays a vital role in every individual’s career as well as Sierra Leone’s social and economic growth.

Commissioner of the National Youth Commission, Ngolo Tom Katta, underscored the importance of the job fair, which he advised young people to take advantage of in the building of their future careers.

Dr. Samuel Doe, the United Nations Development Programme’s Resident Coordinator, said there is lots of potential in the job market that remains untapped, and advised job seekers and graduates to make themselves as employable as possible.

Professor Lawrence Kamara, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Fourah Bay College, advised the graduates to make good decisions and suggestions on the kinds of job they should choose. He described the platform as a window of opportunities for job seekers and graduates.