By Festus J. Lahai
On the 17 November 2020 Ambassador Mohamed Yongowa addressed Sierra Leonean students in the Russian Federation following the receipt of their allowances for the 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 Academic Years.
He used the occasion to reaffirm President Julius Maada Bio’s unflinching commitment to education, describing him as a listening leader who is always ready to answer to the calls of his citizens at any time, no matter where they may be.
“Two weeks ago, I had a virtual meeting with you and I reaffirmed the Government’s commitment in ensuring that you receive your stipends and evidently this promise has now become a reality”, Ambassador Yongawo said.
He continued: “When I went to Freetown a month ago, I met with all the line Ministries and made them understand that you need this money. As the Embassy responsible for your welfare, we inherited two outstanding academic-year allowances which we have now paid”. The Ambassador also reiterated that this act “demonstrates the Government’s continued commitment to support Sierra Leonean students across the world”.
Ambassador Yongawo explained how he met with various Universities in Russia and appealed for more scholarships. That effort, he added, is now yielding positive dividends as there has been an increase of 40 students who have already gained admission to different Universities for various courses.
”Times are hard right now; even the biggest economies are suffering but our Government is doing its level best to meet the demands of every sector including education which is its priority,” the Ambassador maintained.
“I carry the title Ambassador but you should all also think of yourselves as Ambassadors representing Sierra Leone; your behaviour here is very significant for our image and to other students who may wish to acquire foreign education not only in the Russian Federation but all over the world”.
Sixty-two students received their allowances for the 2018-20219 Academic Year and thirty-nine for the 2019- 2020 Academy Year.
The students expressed their gratitude to President Bio and his Government and Ambassador Yongawo for the prompt response, especially when the winter season is about to start in Russia.
The Students’ Union representative, Ishmael Khadri Kamara said: “We are grateful to Ambassador Yongawo and His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio for his outstanding leadership in Sierra Leone, particularly his priority on Human Capital Development. But please consider the increment in our allowances because we are committed to learn and make our nation proud.”
Ambassador Yongawo was a former Students’ Union President in Moscow, and he is highly respected by his colleague Diplomats for his extraordinary stance for the African continent and Sierra Leone in particular.
