Ambassador Yongawo Attends Second Annual National Union of Sierra Leonean Students Convention in Russia
Korovy Val Moscow, Russia- Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation, His Excellency Mohamed Yongawo on Saturday 26th August 2023 graced the Second Annual National Union of Sierra Leonean Students’ Convention in the Russian Federation where he served as the Keynote Speaker,.
The theme for the convention was, “The Impact of International Students on National Health, Finance, and Development.”
In his debut address to students, Ambassador Yongawo congratulated President Dr. Julius Maada Bio on his victory in the June 24th, 2023 elections. He also acknowledged Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurrie, the Minister of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE), who was a Guest Speaker at the event.
Commending President Bio’s support for human capital development, Ambassador Yongawo highlighted initiatives such as student allowances funded through MTHE. To encourage students to return home after studies, he shared insights on Sierra Leone’s medical workforce.
Ambassador Yongawo proudly discussed the increase in scholarships, especially medical ones, from 37 to approximately 150, with most recipients studying medicine at RUDN University. He thanked RUDN and the Russian Government for this collaboration, which supplemented the annual 25 scholarships offered via MTHE.
“My team and I made a special appeal to RUDN for medical scholarships. Thus for the last five years on an annual basis, Sierra Leone has been awarded 15 medical scholarships. This was increased to 25 this academic year and we are grateful to RUDN and the Russian Government for such a gesture.”
Adding that, “This quota is in addition to 25 scholarships in various fields of study awarded to Sierra Leone through the MTHE on a yearly basis.”
Ambassador Yongawo encouraged the students to always engage the Embassy in dialog to discuss any of their concerns, such as delays in their stipends/ allowances.
“Don’t engage in public demonstrations at the Embassy; engage us as this is the best way to address issues,” he urged.
“We are here today as a result of our collective efforts of the Mission and students working together to market our country to the Russian people and other nationals in this country”, he added.
He expressed how proud he was at their academic performances in your various Universities across the Russian Federation, noting that he is not surprised as it is known that Sierra Leoneans are very intelligent people.
Ambassador Yongawo ended by reminding the audience of President Bio’s Big Five Game Changers: emphasising that, “They are achievable with the collective efforts of all Sierra Leoneans both home and abroad.”
Minister of Technical and Higher Education Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie addressed the gathering online, conveying President Bio’s greetings. She affirmed the government’s commitment to human capital development and urged students to forge networks for future career benefits.
Touching on diversity, cultural exchange, and social cohesion, the Minister stressed their importance in a connected world. She aspired to empower students to positively impact Sierra Leone and the international arena.
“We want to create a positive cycle of change and also change the narratives. When we motivate you we are motivating the next generation of active young people”, the Minister concluded.
Outgoing NUSS President Alhassan Bangura thanked Ambassador Yongawo, the Embassy, and the executive team for their support. He noted achievements like online lectures, an online library, and a student magazine.
Alhassan Bangura highlighted the challenge of delayed stipend payments and appealed for an increase to accommodate rising living costs. He congratulated President Bio and lauded his commitment to human capital development.
Speakers included Alex Arnold Whitfield, CEO of AFRUS Business Group, and Dr. Kadia Bundu, CEO of Aidak. The convention concluded with certification, music, comedy and cultural performances reflecting Sierra Leone’s diversity.
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Festus J. Lahai
Information Attache’
Moscow, Russian Federation
