The Ministry of Technical and Higher Education has bid farewell to 32 exceptional students set to pursue undergraduate and master’s degrees in Hungary, marking a significant step in their academic and professional journeys. The ceremony occurred on 10 September 2024 at the Ministry’s Sababu Building, New England Ville.
In her address, the Minister of Higher and Technical Education, Dr Ramatulai Wurie, expressed profound gratitude to the Government of Hungary for its continued support in advancing Sierra Leone’s education and contributing to its human development agenda. She highlighted that these scholarships are opportunities and investments in the nation’s future.
Dr Wurie proudly noted that 30% of the awardees are female, aligning with the government andment of Women of 2022. She congratulated the students for their dedication, hard work, and academic excellence, urging them to be ambassadors for Sierra Leone, carrying the nation’s hopes and aspirations. She emphasized that studying abroad is about academic achievement and embracing diverse cultures and ideas to develop a global perspective.
“Focus on your studies, explore new ideas, engage actively with fellow students, and most importantly, ensure you return home to contribute to nation-building,” Dr. Wurie advised the awardees.
The Acting Director for Europe at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Khadijatu E. Alpha, commended the Ministry for conducting a credible and transparent selection process, ensuring that the chosen students represent Sierra Leone with pride. She reaffirmed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ commitment to partnering with development partners to expand scholarship opportunities for Sierra Leoneans. She also appreciated the Government of Hungary for extending the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarships to Sierra Leone and thanked the Hungarian Consul for strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations.
In his remarks, the Chief Technical and Higher Education Officer, Dr. Josephus Brimah, encouraged the students to excel academically and return home equipped to contribute to the country’s development. He also reminded them to focus on their studies and avoid political matters in Hungary.
George Dambo, Acting Student Secretary at the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, highlighted the comprehensive nature of the scholarships, which cover tuition fees, monthly stipends, accommodation contributions, and medical insurance.
Among the awardees, Elizabeth Magdalene Kargbo, who will pursue a postgraduate degree in engineering, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity. “I am honored to receive this scholarship, and upon completion of my studies, I will contribute to the development of my country,” she said. Another awardee, Kemokai Kanneh, who will study for a B.Sc. in Medicine, described the scholarship as a dream come true. He expressed his commitment to transferring the knowledge he will gain back to Sierra Leone.
This farewell ceremony marks a new chapter for these 32 students, who will soon embark on a journey of academic and personal growth, carrying with them the hopes of a nation.
Correspondent Richard Williams
