Speaking at a farewell meeting for the students on Thursday at Fourah Bay College, Prof. He Mingqing Director of Confucius Institute noted that the Taichi scholarship is geared towards strengthening the bilateral relationships between the People’s Republic of China and Sierra Leone. He stated further that the scholarship looks at teaching first-timers and provide additional learning for students that had earlier started training in the art of Taichi. Ahr said the training package includes knowledge on both the theoretical and practical aspects of the art.
“It will give you the opportunity to experience the unique ingredients of the birthplace and knowledge of Taichi,” Prof. Mingqing told the departing students, noting that during the period, the students will experience and enjoy the glamour of martial art and share Chinese traditional culture.
Bidding farewell to the thirty students, Mr. Kenneth Osho local Director at the Confucius Institue, commended the Government of the People’s Republic of China for providing opportunity for Sierra Leoneans to get first-hand experience of a unique Chinese traditional culture. He noted that this is not the first set of students adding that last year eight students were awarded the same scholarship. Mr. Osho went on to say the scholarship is in demonstration of true friendship between the People’s Republic of China and Sierra Leone.
He congratulated the students for making it through adding it was not an easy task. He however charged the students to put on their best behavior while in China, noting that they will be serving as ambassadors of Sierra Leone. “Take advantage of the hospitality but do not abuse it. Handled properly it will open doors of opportunities for you,” Mr. Osho cautioned the students.
The Economic and Commercial Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in his brief address noted that the scholarship is in response to President Bio’s priority on education and human capacity development. He informed the students that the scholarship will enable them learn about unique Chinese culture and customs and at sometime promote cultural exchange trips between the two countries.
Speaking on behalf of the students, Alusine Turay the team captain thanked the Confucius Institute and Chinese Embassy for providing the scholarship. He described the relationship between the People’s Republic of China and Sierra Leone as beyond simple friendship adding that it is more like a family bond. He reassured their benefactors that they will make good use of the opportunity and behave well while in China.
