To address delayed stipends, the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education presented Le 40,725 to nine Sierra Leonean students studying in Venezuela on government scholarships. The presentation, held on November 4, 2024, at the ministry's conference room in New England Ville, is part of the government’s ongoing commitment to financially support students studying abroad under bilateral agreements.
Dr. Ramatulai Haja Wurie, Minister of Technical and Higher Education, emphasised that the Government of Sierra Leone is committed to providing financial aid to eligible scholarship recipients. She noted that this support is designed to ensure students’ academic progress, with continued funding for those meeting the necessary academic standards. She acknowledged the financial challenges involved, given competing national priorities, and expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Finance for its role in establishing systems to ensure adequate fund disbursement.
Dr Wurie explained that the United States sanctions on Venezuela and Cuba have complicated direct remittances. As a solution, the ministry has arranged for parents in Sierra Leone to collect the stipends for their children studying in those countries.
George A. Dambo, Acting Student Secretary at the Ministry, highlighted that 405 Sierra Leonean students currently study in countries such as Russia, China, Hungary, Turkey, Cuba, and Venezuela under government scholarships. He reiterated the government’s dedication to supporting these students financially. Dambo also assured parents of a transparent stipend distribution process, with funds being transferred directly into the ministry's account and then disbursed to parents with proper documentation.
Expressing gratitude, Mariama Ibrahim, a parent of one of the scholarship recipients, shared the relief this support brings, especially given the financial constraints of sending funds to Venezuela. She thanked the government for its commitment, even amidst delays, and noted that the process had been transparent, ensuring accountability for all involved.
Abdulai Kamara, representing his daughter Agnes, also appreciated the government’s efforts and acknowledged the transparency of the stipend disbursement process. He noted that the financial support would help students focus on their studies despite the challenges posed by sanctions.
The stipend presentation underscores the government’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leonean students abroad, fostering their academic achievements and strengthening international educational ties.
Richard Williams,
SLENA Correspondent.
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