90 Liberian students receive Chinese government scholarships

Chinese government scholarship awarding ceremony.(People's Daily Online)

The People’s Republic of China, through its Embassy near Monrovia, recently announced the provision of over 90 full government scholarships to Liberian students for study in China during 2019.

The students are expected to pursue undergraduate, graduate and doctorate degrees in various disciplines at various universities in China. Also, 30 more Liberian students have received scholarships from Chinese military academies and the Confucius Institute.

Speaking at the award ceremony, Chinese Ambassador Fu Jijun said the year 2019 had been a remarkable year for China-Liberia collaboration, especially in the area of capacity building.

Fu disclosed that the provision of scholarships by China to African students is part of the eight major initiatives for enhancing China-Africa collaboration in the next three years and beyond.

He said the initiative proposed that China would provide Africa 50,000 government scholarships in the next three years. He explained that China-Liberia education cooperation had experienced a ‘great’ leap forward in 2019 because training programs have increased in length.

The Chinese diplomat added that China is willing to strengthen collaboration with Liberia under the framework of FOCAC and the Pro-Poor Agenda, to help Liberia achieve its development and prosperity.

He asked the students to play the role of ambassadors between the Chinese and Liberian peoples in building up the bridge of friendship and understanding between the two countries, adding that they should work hard in learning both the Chinese language and professional knowledge.

Deputy Education Minister for Research, Planning & Development Dominic Quamie said that China and Liberia have enjoyed a wonderful partnership over the years.

In his opinion, those benefiting from the scholarship were well vetted by the responsible committee. Minister Quamie said Liberians who are leaving for China are expected to contribute to nation-building upon their return.

He explained that the government is currently working with partners to begin a national service program where graduates returning from studies abroad are placed in various sectors of society.