By Arret Jatta
The Chinese Embassy in The Gambia on Friday hosted a Bantaba for Gambian scholarship recipients and returning scholars.
The gathering brought together Higher Education Minister Professor Pierre Gomez, Chinese Ambassador Liu Jin, university lecturers, students, graduates and media representatives.
The event marked a celebration of the growing education ties between The Gambia and China.
Ambassador Liu said this year marks 10 years since China and The Gambia resumed diplomatic relations during which time nearly 400 young Gambians received Chinese scholarships
According to him, the scholars have studied fields including science, information technology, engineering, medicine and public service.
He praised Gambian graduates for using their skills to support national development.
Liu also announced that 25 Gambian students will travel to China in September under Chinese Government and MOFCOM scholarships, encouraging the beneficiaries to make the most of their studies and return with knowledge that can help their country.
The ambassador also announced plans for further education cooperation, including a joint biology laboratory with the University of The Gambia.
He said China is also planning to establish a Luban Workshop at the University of Applied Science, Engineering and Technology. The workshop is expected to provide technical training and help develop Gambian engineering professionals.
The Minister of Higher Education Research Science and Technology Prof. Pierre Gomez described the gathering as more than a scholarship send-off. He said the scholarships represent an investment in people, knowledge and The Gambia’s future.
Gomez thanked China for its continued support and urged returning scholars to apply their skills to national development.
Among the new scholars is Mamburey Touray of the Gambia Police Force Information Technology Unit who said he plans to study advanced software architecture and secure systems in China.
He hopes to use the knowledge to develop technology platforms that can work across Gambian law enforcement agencies.
Meanwhile, returning scholar and journalist Jainaba Sonko shared how studying in China changed her view of the country and opened more opportunities for her like hosting a program on CGTN, China’s National TV. Sonko thanked the Chinese Embassy and urged the Ministry to include more private-sector workers in future scholarship opportunities.