By Foday Moriba Conteh
The University of Management and Technology (UNIMTECH) in Sierra Leone has entered into a Memorandum of Affiliation with the prestigious China University of Geosciences in Wuhan in a major step towards international collaboration in higher education.
The signing ceremony, held on Monday 6th May, 2024 at UNIMTECH Campus on Hospital Road, Kissy Dockyard in Freetown marks a landmark moment in academic relations between the two institutions geared towards fostering academic exchange, joint research initiatives and cultural understanding between Sierra Leone and China.
Addressing the esteemed Professors, Leaders, Teachers and Students present at the event, Luo Wenxu, the Director of the International Student Affairs Office at China University of Geosciences, conveyed his deep appreciation for the warm reception he received upon his arrival, despite the long journey of over 40 hours.
He proudly highlighted the esteemed reputation of China University of Geosciences as a national key university under the Ministry of Education of China, renowned for its excellence in geosciences and related fields.
The Director underscored the significance of the collaboration between China University of Geosciences and UNIMTECH, emphasizing the shared commitment to academic excellence and international cooperation.
He recounted the recent visit of His Excellency Julius Maada Bio, who was awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree from China University of Geosciences, symbolizing the deep-rooted friendship and cooperation between China and Sierra Leone.
Reflecting on the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, he praised the resilience and dedication of international students, including Dr. Tiando S. Damien, who played a crucial role in organizing efforts to combat the pandemic alongside Chinese citizens.
He encouraged African students to pursue their dreams diligently and expressed his anticipation of welcoming them to China University of Geosciences.
Furthermore, Luo Wenxu, highlighted the scholarship programs offered by China University of Geosciences, inviting students and teachers to explore opportunities for academic exchange and collaboration. He emphasized the importance of continued communication and cooperation between the two institutions, promising to facilitate deeper collaboration through scholarship initiatives.
As the ceremony concluded, he expressed his gratitude to all attendees and reiterated his commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships and academic exchanges between UNIMTECH and China University of Geosciences.
Prof. Osman Sankoh, the Vice Chancellor for Administration at the University of Management and Technology (UNIMTECH), expressed gratitude and excitement during the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Affiliation between UNIMTECH and China University of Geosciences.
Addressing the distinguished attendees, Prof. Osman Sankoh emphasized the longstanding relationship between UNIMTECH and the Chinese Embassy, highlighting the support received from the Embassy in facilitating academic exchanges and collaborations. He acknowledged the efforts of the research team led by Dr. Brima Sesay, whose dedication made the collaboration possible.
Prof. Sankoh reiterated UNIMTECH’s commitment to strengthening ties with China University of Geosciences, citing recent initiatives such as staff exchange programs and visits to China, emphasizing the importance of developing a comprehensive proposal outlining areas of mutual interest and collaboration, including opportunities for lecturers to pursue advanced studies in China.
Furthermore, Prof. Sankoh outlined UNIMTECH’s vision for the collaboration, which includes not only academic exchanges but also virtual teaching and curriculum development. He stressed the importance of leveraging each institution’s expertise to create a dynamic learning environment for students.
Reflecting on the transformative impact of international collaborations, he encouraged continued cooperation between UNIMTECH and China University of Geosciences. He emphasized the role of academia in driving progress and innovation, citing examples of Chinese Professors who have contributed to China’s development after returning from overseas studies.
Prof. Sankoh ended calling for collective prayer and support to ensure the success of the collaboration, expressing confidence in the partnership’s potential to enrich academic experiences and foster mutual understanding between UNIMTECH and China University of Geosciences.
The ceremony reached its climax with the officially signing of the Memorandum of Affiliation with the China University of Geosciences by Luo Wenxu, the Director of the International Student Affairs Office at China University of Geosciences and Prof. Osman Sankoh, the Vice Chancellor for Administration at the University of Management and Technology (UNIMTECH).
