Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) of the People’s Republic of China, through the Chinese Embassy and coordinated by Ministry of Employment and Labour of Sierra Leone (MELSS)
Reception at the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone for Solar Energy Seminar Participants
On Friday October 4, 2024, the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone hosted a farewell reception to honour 25 participants from the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security. These individuals are set to embark on an important seminar focused on the installation and use of solar energy in China. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance renewable energy knowledge and practices within Sierra Leone, aligning with global trends towards sustainable energy solutions.
The seminar aims to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge regarding solar energy technologies. As countries worldwide increasingly turn to renewable energy sources, understanding solar power’s installation and maintenance becomes crucial. The training will cover various aspects, including China’s national conditions, Chinese path to modernization, Green Electric Power Development in China, Planning and Design of Solar PV Power Generation and Equipment Selection, Installation and operation of photovoltaic modules, Photovoltaic inverter and system application, Photovoltaic module cell efficiency improvement. By participating in this seminar, attendees will gain insights that can be applied back home to improve local energy infrastructure and promote sustainable development.
The farewell reception commenced with welcoming remarks from Dr. Xia Yiayin, who chaired the event. Dr. Xia congratulated the participants for their dedication and emphasized the transformative potential of renewable energy for Sierra Leone’s development
Mr. Zhang Dianbin, Minister Counselor of the Chinese Embassy, delivered a keynote address during the event. He highlighted the importance of solar energy in meeting the country’s energy needs and addressing climate change emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development. The Minister Counselor highlighted China’s commitment to sharing its technological advancements with developing nations like Sierra Leone. He expressed hope that the knowledge gained from this seminar would lead to significant improvements in Sierra Leone’s energy sector. Minister Zhang also reiterated China’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone in its journey towards energy independence and sustainable development. He also praised the collaboration between the Chinese Embassy and MELSS, noting that this partnership represents a significant milestone in fostering technical knowledge and cooperation between the two nations.
The Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security Hon. Mohamed Rado Swarray also spoke about the potential benefits of solar energy for Sierra Leone’s economy. He noted that investing in renewable energy does not only helps combat climate change but also creates job opportunities within the country. ‘His Excellency the President is very much desirous in building the human capital of our country and my ministry is very much appreciative to providing this platform for Sierra Leoneans to partake in the seminar on solar panel installation as a dedication to promoting sustainable energy solutions that aligns perfectly in a greener future the Minister said’ He urge the participants to make good use of this opportunity to benefit if not the country as a whole but rather the various communities they are coming from. ‘As you go as ambassadors of Sierra Leone make sure you represent the country well’, he said
To the Chinese embassy, Hon Minister thanked the Chinese embassy for such a timely opportunity to our youth. He said he always cherish such opportunities and look forward for more collaboration in fulfilling the agenda of the His Excellency the President Rtg. Breg. Julius Maada Bio on the big five game changer
Two representatives from the participants gave vote of thanks on behalf of colleague participants, they extended heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the Embassy of the Peoples Republic China to Sierra Leone for their unwavering support and commitment to fostering educational exchanges between the two nations, they both maintained that the farewell reception served as a platform for cultural exchange between Chinese diplomats and Sierra Leonean officials.
The Farewell reception was climaxed with a Chinese song title ‘Friends’ by the coordinator and Focal Person from MELSS Mr. Foday Nangai together with Mr. Leo from the Chinese Embassy which Mr. Nangai interprets as meaning a friend in need is a friend in deed as the bond of friendship between Sierra Leone and China is strengthen by the strong bond between the two countries. China has been and continues to be the best friend of Sierra Leone good and bad times .
This reception marks a significant step towards enhancing Sierra Leone’s capacity in renewable energy through international collaboration. The participants’ upcoming seminar in China is expected to yield valuable insights that can contribute to sustainable development goals within their home country.
Credit: Kadija Kabba, Sierra Leone news Agency
