Ambassador Rashid Sesay Inaugurates Sierra Leone Student Body In India
Sierra Leone’s High Commissioner to the Republic of India has over the weekend met with Sierra Leonean students currently studying in various tertiary institutions in India, where he encouraged them to focus on their studies and serve as good representatives of Sierra Leone.
Speaking at the event, held in Andrad Pradesh University, High Commissioner Rashid Sesay said that as his country’s principal representative to India, he was excited about meeting and engaging with his nationals to discuss their welfare, successes and challenges. He discussed His Excellency President Dr Julius Maada Bio’s Human Capital efforts stating that education was a key driver for nation building and economic development.
The Envoy also inaugurated the Sierra Leoneans in India Students Association, SLISA saying that he was pleased that the students had been able to form such a group that would promote unity and solidarity among them.
“I am honored and privileged to be given the golden opportunity to inaugurate this executive on behalf of the President and Government of Sierra Leone as a way to foster peace and harmony among students. We are proud of you and the idea of coming together. I wish you all the best and be assured of our support,” he ended.
President of the SLISA, Francis Mannah said that the Association would provide a platform for all Sierra Leonean students to feel connected, supported and empowered to achieve their dreams. He noted their vision was to serve as a bridge between students and opportunities, struggles and solutions and most importantly between Sierra Leone and the global stage. He also thanked High Commissioner Sesay for the move to meet with and for inspiring them to be better citizens.
Dean of International Relations at the Andra University, Professor Dhanamjaya Rao said they were honored to provide a learning opportunity for students from Sierra Leone. He commended the Sierra Leonean students for displaying discipline, determination and commitment to their academic pursuit, while also assuring them of the university’s willingness to support students throughout their journey.
The event also included some cultural displays of Sierra Leonean attires, music and performances by the students (videos of which are attached to this text).
By Mohamed Lamin Massaquoi, Information Attachè, [email protected]
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