By Linus Flomo
The Chinese Embassy in Liberia held a successful scholarship awarding ceremony yesterday, recognizing outstanding students from universities across the country.
The event, held in Paynesville, was attended by university officials, students, youth groups, and other dignitaries.
The scholarship program, known as the “Chinese Ambassador’s Scholarship Award,” aims to support the academic aspirations of Liberian students.
During the ceremony, Ambassador YIN Chengwu, delivered remarks, congratulating the recipients of the scholarships.
He extended special praise to the students from the University of Liberia, Cuttington University, Tubman University, and Bomi Community College for their academic excellence.
“The Chinese Ambassador’s Scholarship is an important initiative to help students complete their studies,” the Ambassador said.
Since its establishment in 2011, over 1,000 outstanding Liberian students have been awarded this honor. Not only does this scholarship encourage students to work hard, but it also brings them closer to realizing their dreams.
It has also sparked a growing interest in the Chinese language and culture, fostering stronger ties between our two nations.
The Ambassador highlighted the broader scope of China-Liberia educational cooperation, noting that since the resumption of diplomatic relations in 2003, nearly 1,000 Liberian students have been sponsored to pursue degree programs in China, with more than 2,000 others participating in short-term training programs.
Many of these students are now playing key roles in Liberia’s development.
One notable project in the partnership is the Confucius Institute, established in 2008 at the University of Liberia in collaboration with China’s Changsha University of Science & Technology.
The Institute has not only facilitated the teaching of Chinese language and culture but has also connected hundreds of students with local Chinese enterprises.
The Ambassador also spoke of China’s continued commitment to educational collaboration, referencing the September 2023 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit.
During the summit, China and Liberia agreed to strengthen their educational ties as part of a broader strategic partnership.
Several future initiatives were announced, including the “China-Africa Universities 100 Cooperation Plan” and the “Future of Africa” Vocational Education Cooperation Plan.
These programs aim to expand opportunities for Liberian students in fields such as STEM education and vocational training.
“China’s support for educational development in Africa, and Liberia in particular, will continue to grow,” the Ambassador said.
He said, “Through the establishment of Confucius Institutes and other educational programs, we are creating more pathways for Liberian students to gain knowledge and skills, contributing to the country’s inclusive development.”
University of Liberia Acting President Al Hassan Conteh also praised the partnership, acknowledging the generous scholarships as a testament to the strong bond between China and Liberia.
“We are proud to have partners like the Chinese Embassy who share our vision of empowering young minds and transforming lives,” Conteh said. “To the scholarship recipients, continue striving for excellence, as education is the key to unlocking your potential and transforming your communities.”
The event concluded with both the Ambassador and the various universities reiterating their commitment to expanding the collaboration between China and Liberia in education, culture, and development.
As China continues to deepen its engagement with Africa, the prospects for Liberian students to benefit from such initiatives are promising.
