Bintumani Conference Centre, Aberdeen Freetown, 19th August 2025 (SLENA) – In a bid to strengthen human capital development through education, the Government of China, through its Embassy in Sierra Leone, held the 2025 Chinese Scholarship Program award ceremony and farewell event for Sierra Leonean students at the Bintumani International Conference Centre, Aberdeen, on 18th August 2025.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, H. E Wang Qing congratulated the awardees, noting that 121 full scholarships were granted to Sierra Leonean students this year to study in Chinese universities and colleges.
The breakdown, H. E Qing said includes 20 Chinese Government Scholarships, 2 Youth Excellence Scholarships, and 99 MOFCOM Scholarships—placing Sierra Leone among the top beneficiaries globally.
Ambassador Wang Qing emphasized that the students’ success reflects not only their individual qualities but also the support of their families and the enduring friendship between China and Sierra Leone.
He commended the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Confucius Institute at the University of Sierra Leone, and other partners for their roles in promoting educational exchange.
Since his arrival in Sierra Leone two years ago, the Ambassador said, he has been impressed by the government’s commitment to education, especially the Free Quality Education program launched in 2018, which has helped thousands of students.
He noted that independent assessments now show Sierra Leonean students performing at par with Africa’s best educational systems, a development that lays a solid foundation for the nation’s future.
China and Sierra Leone he reiterated, have enjoyed over 54 years of bilateral relations, with education as a cornerstone of cooperation.
In the last two decades, he said more than 1,500 Sierra Leonean students have studied in China under the scholarship program, while over 2,500 officials and professionals have benefited from short-term trainings in areas such as poverty alleviation, agriculture and fisheries, climate response, and governance.
Ambassador Wang also announced the creation of a new platform, the “Home for Participants of Sierra Leone–China Human Resource Cooperation Projects,” in partnership with the Sino-Sierra Leone Alumni Association (SISLAA). A plaque presentation is expected soon.
He urged the beneficiaries to be “practitioners of integrating knowledge and action”—studying diligently, developing strong skills, and returning to serve Sierra Leone.
The fields of study he stated include agricultural technology, engineering, medicine, the digital economy, and green development.
He also encouraged students to serve as cultural ambassadors—engaging with Chinese society while showcasing Sierra Leone’s heritage, abiding by laws, university regulations, and codes of conduct.
Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, Minister of Technical and Higher Education, advised the students to carry themselves with dignity, focus on their studies, network widely, learn the Chinese language, and share Sierra Leone’s culture.
She emphasized the importance of returning home with knowledge and innovations that can drive 21st-century national development.
Franklyn B. Fawundu, Director General of Operations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, expressed gratitude on behalf of the Government to the Government and People of the People’s Republic of China for the continued support in the country’s educational Sector.
He highlighted that the scholarships are investments in Sierra Leone’s future, reflecting a durable partnership that promotes mutual growth.
He urged the students to embrace the opportunity with diligence and perseverance, noting that they represent the nation’s values abroad.
An alumnus of the program shared his personal testimony, stressing that success is not only about awards but also about resilience and transformation.
“I left China not only with a degree but with a new mindset, stronger purpose, and a deeper commitment to serve my country. To the new scholars, remember that you are not merely students—you are ambassadors carrying your family’s hopes, your country’s interests, and the vision of a stronger China–Africa relationship.
One of the beneficiaries, Nabieu Dowingbon Lavalie, pledged integrity, diligence, and pride in representing Sierra Leone with respect. He encouraged his fellow scholars to study hard, embrace Chinese culture, and return with knowledge to contribute to the country’s shared future.
Amara Kargbo, SLeNA
