Omonu YG Nelson
The spouse of Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Her Excellency, Ms. Liang Huili, has underscored the critical role education plays in promoting progress, prosperity and civilization.
She stated this when the Embassy of China in Nigeria hosted the “The Oct. Ist Award of China-Nigeria Friendship” Awarding & Donation Ceremony at the China-Assisted Model Primary School in Nyanya, Abuja on November 21, 2023.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Liang Huili, the wife of the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, emphasized the critical role of education in promoting progress, prosperity, and civilization. She highlighted the importance of education for individuals, especially children, in developing critical thinking, creativity, and imagination, ultimately guiding them towards fulfilling careers.
Ms. Liang Huili commended the China-Assisted Model Primary School in Nyanya for its contributions to education in the local community. She acknowledged the Chinese Embassy’s longstanding commitment to supporting education in Nigeria, citing past efforts such as constructing new classrooms, maintaining toilets, donating computers and generators, and providing other essential resources.
Ms. Liang Huili expressed her hope that more Nigerian students would embrace Chinese culture and language learning. She encouraged them to explore the rich heritage and linguistic diversity of China through educational opportunities.
The “The Oct. Ist Award of China-Nigeria Friendship” Awarding & Donation Ceremony served as a testament to the strong ties between China and Nigeria. It highlighted the significance of education in fostering mutual understanding and collaboration between the two nations.
Ms. Liang Huili’s speech underscored the importance of education as a driving force for individual and national development. The ceremony itself exemplified the strong partnership between China and Nigeria in promoting educational excellence and cultural exchange. By recognizing outstanding students and teachers, the event encouraged continued pursuit of knowledge and fostered a brighter future for both countries.
In her welcome address, Mrs. Etsu Jummai Haruna, the Head Teacher of China-Assisted Model Primary School Nyanya, expressed her gratitude to the Chinese Embassy and the Federal Capital Territory Universal Basic Education Board (FCT UBEB) for their unwavering support. She acknowledged the exceptional talents and dedication of the scholarship recipients, emphasizing that their achievements were not only a testament to their hard work but also a reflection of the school’s commitment to academic excellence.
Mrs. Haruna also highlighted China’s significant contributions to the development of education in Nigeria. She mentioned the Chinese Embassy’s donations of school bags, stationery, sports equipment, and air conditioners, all of which have played a crucial role in enhancing the learning environment for the students.
The Ag. Chairman of the FCT UBEB, Alhaji Alhassan Sule, echoed Mrs. Haruna’s sentiments, commending the Chinese Embassy for its positive partnership. He revealed that this year alone, the SUBEB has organized ten education-related activities with the support of the Embassy. He further expressed the Board’s appreciation for the Embassy’s willingness to explore providing the school with Chinese language teachers.
Godswill Ogwuche, the Head Boy of China-Assisted Model Primary School Nyanya, delivered a heartfelt speech on the importance of education. He emphasized that education is the bedrock of any great nation and urged the Federal Government to continue investing in its development. He also expressed the school’s gratitude to the Chinese Embassy for its contributions to the advancement of education in Nigeria.
The 2023 Chinese Ambassador Scholarship Award ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the strong bonds between China and Nigeria, particularly in the realm of education. It underscored the importance of education in fostering mutual understanding, collaboration, and cultural exchange between the two nations.
The event concluded with a call for continued investment in education and a renewed commitment to fostering a future where knowledge and understanding bridge cultures and pave the way for a brighter future for both China and Nigeria.
The ceremony was attended by representatives from the Chinese Embassy, the Federal Capital Territory Universal Basic Education Board (FCT UBEB), and the China-Assisted Model Primary School Nyanya.
The event featured traditional Chinese performances and cultural exhibitions.
The Chinese Embassy also donated educational supplies and other resources to the school.