By Sarafina ChristopherIn a celebration of diplomatic ties, the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria awarded scholarships to 52 primary school teachers and pupils of the China-Assisted Model Primary School in Nyanya, Abuja.
This initiative, commemorating the “October 1st Award of China-Nigeria Friendship,” marks the 52nd anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Ms.
Liang Huili, Wife of the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, explained that the scholarships were granted to 32 pupils and 20 teachers as a recognition of their outstanding qualities.
The ceremony aimed to underscore the strategic role of education in fostering friendship and cooperation between China and Nigeria.
Addressing the gathering, Liang emphasised the significance of education as the foundation for progress and prosperity.
She highlighted its critical role in shaping individuals, especially children, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and guiding them toward their future careers.
Liang expressed her sincere wishes for Nigeria’s progress in the education sector, noting that educated youth contribute to the strength and pride of the nation.
Commending the scholarship recipients, Liang urged them to remain focused on their academic pursuits.
Mrs.
Jummai Haruna, Head Teacher of the school, expressed gratitude for China’s sustained efforts to promote education in Nigeria.
She noted that the scholarships not only recognised academic excellence but also testified to the recipients’ hard work, resilience, and determination.
Dr Alhassan Sule, the Executive Chairman of FCT Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB), applauded the Chinese Embassy’s commitment to strengthening the educational partnership between China and Nigeria.
He emphasised the ceremony’s significance in reaffirming the strong ties between the two countries in the field of education.
Encouraging the scholarship recipients to serve as role models, Sule highlighted the transformative power of education in bridging cultures and fostering mutual understanding.
The Head Boy of the school, Godswill Ogwuche, expressed gratitude for China’s unwavering support, highlighting the various contributions, including donations of school bags, stationery, sports equipment, and air conditioners to create a conducive learning environment.
Ogwuche also appealed to the Chinese Embassy to provide the school with a Chinese language teacher, further enhancing the educational experience for the pupils.
The event concluded with a sense of appreciation and optimism for continued cultural and educational exchange between China and Nigeria.
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Edited by Emmanuel Yashim