During a farewell ceremony held at the Chinese Embassy in Rwanda on Friday 23rd August 2024, China's Ambassador to Rwanda, Wang Xuekun, congratulated the scholarship recipients, encouraged them to seize the opportunity and make the most of their time in China.
'By acquiring cutting-edge knowledge and applying it in practice, you will benefit greatly in your future careers. Most importantly, you will be able to use what you learn in China to better serve Rwanda, a country with a bright future,' he emphasized.
Amb. Wang highlighted the similarities between China and Rwanda, particularly in their shared commitment to education as a key driver of development.
He urged the students to take this chance to experience China firsthand and not rely solely on hearsay or disinformation from Western media.
'Travel more in China and gain a true understanding of the country, a civilization with 5,000 years of history. By doing so, you will be well-equipped to serve as goodwill ambassadors between China and Rwanda,' he added.
The cooperation in education has long been a significant aspect of China-Rwanda relations. Since the 1980s, over 1,500 Rwandan students have completed their studies in China with scholarships provided by the Chinese government.
'These alumni have become key contributors in various sectors of Rwanda, further deepening our educational cooperation,' noted Amb. Wang.
Reflecting on the "China-Africa Talent Training Cooperation Plan" introduced by Chinese President Xi Jinping last August, Amb. Wang expressed optimism about expanding educational collaboration between the two nations.
In July, the Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China was held in Beijing. One of the key outcomes was the Resolution on Further Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization.
Amb. Wang mentioned that Rwandan students will witness, or even participate in, the transformative changes brought about by this important meeting during their stay in China, which could offer valuable insights for Rwanda on its own modernization journey.
Eng. Pascal Gatabazi, Chief Technical Advisor in the Ministry of Education who also graced the event, emphasized that these scholarships reflect the strong and growing partnership between Rwanda and the People's Republic of China in education.
'This cooperation has transcended various sectors, with education standing as a shining example of our shared commitment to mutual development and progress. The Chinese government scholarship is a testament to this enduring partnership, opening doors for our young men and women to pursue academic excellence in one of the world's most culturally rich civilizations,' he affirmed.
'You have been chosen not just as students but also as ambassadors of Rwanda. As you embark on this journey, you carry with you the hopes and aspirations of your families, communities, and nation,' Gatabazi added.
Christine Mutesi, Division Manager of Accreditation, Standards and Qualifications Framework at Higher Education Council (HEC), encouraged the students to develop confidence, aim higher, and return with the knowledge needed to contribute to national development.
Brig Gen Patrick Karuretwa, Head of International Military Cooperation at the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), extended his appreciation for the friendship between the militaries of both countries, highlighting China's significant contribution to the RDF's mission and achievements.
He noted that over 20 RDF personnel are preparing to attend various courses in China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) training institutions, reflecting the dynamic and growing partnership.
The number will add to the more than 300 RDF personnel, including generals, who have graduated from Chinese academic and training institutions since 2007.
The PLA has consistently demonstrated a commitment to the ideals of justice, individual rights, and creating a better future for people worldwide.
'Because these values align with those we cherish in the RDF, we are pleased to partner with the PLA in building the capacity of our personnel and leaders. We are convinced that the knowledge our personnel gain will benefit and prepare them to contribute even more to the professional journey of our armed forces,' Brig Gen Karuretwa noted.
Emmanuel Kamanzi, head of the China-Rwanda Alumni Association who studied in China from 2009 to 2012, shared his experiences and urged the students to learn from the Chinese people's hard working spirit and discipline, which has been central to the development of their country.
On behalf of scholarship recipients, Janvier Bikorimana, who will pursue a master's degree in public administration, extended heartfelt thanks to the Chinese and Rwandan governments for making their academic pursuits possible.
The longstanding relationship between Rwanda and China spans 75 years, marked by substantial cooperation. China remains one of Rwanda's primary sources of imports.
Théophile Niyitegeka
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/over-70-rwandan-students-awarded-chinese-scholarships
