By Fatou Sillah
The Chinese Embassy in The Gambia on Monday awarded the Chinese Ambassador’s Scholarship to 40 students of the University of The Gambia (UTG) at a ceremony held at the UTG Auditorium in Kanifing.
The scholarship, established by the Chinese Embassy, is designed to support academically outstanding and financially disadvantaged students. Each award covers full annual tuition fees, valued at over D40,000 per student.
Beyond financial assistance, the initiative seeks to encourage academic excellence, foster future leadership, and promote national development. It also aims to strengthen bilateral ties between China and The Gambia through education and cultural exchange.
Addressing the ceremony, Chinese Ambassador Liu Jin said the programme underscores the deepening cooperation between the two countries and highlights the importance of investing in youth.
“Over the past decade, our two countries have deepened political mutual trust and carried out win-win cooperation,” he said. “We have achieved fruitful results in education and training, infrastructure, agriculture, medical care, and other fields, which have truly benefited the two peoples. Young people are the future of national development and China-Gambia friendship.”
The Vice Chancellor of the University of The Gambia, Professor Herbert Robinson, described the scholarship as a meaningful investment in the country’s future.
“This kind gesture is far more than financial support. It is an investment in talent, aspiration, and the future of young Gambians. It is also a powerful symbol of friendship and solidarity between the two countries,” he said.
Professor Robinson further expressed appreciation for the embassy’s continued support to the university, including scholarships for both students and staff, as well as efforts to enhance academic exchange and cooperation.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Omar KB Samura conveyed gratitude to the Chinese Embassy, noting that the scholarship would significantly ease the financial burden of tuition.
The event also coincided with the commemoration of the 80th International Chinese Language Day, observed annually on April 20 as part of the United Nations Language Days initiative. Established in 2010 by the UN Department of Public Information, the observance promotes multilingualism, cultural diversity, and the equal use of the UN’s six official languages.
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