The Ambassador of The Republic of China on Taiwan, His Excellency Richard Shih, yesterday presented a cheque amounting to $6000 to the vice-chancellor of the University of The Gambia (UTG).
The money is meant for the tuition fees of ten needy UTG students.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony, held at the office of the UTG vice-chancellor at the University Administrative Building in Kanifing, Ambassador Shih expressed his pleasure in supporting the country's education sector.
He described the day as also important for him as it's his first official visit to the UTG since assuming office. He called on UTG administration not to hesitate to contact his office for assistance. " We are very much appreciative of our relationship with The Gambia and we will do our best to maintain it especially in the area of education". He used the opportunity to congratulate the previous recipients of embassy scholarships. The Taiwanese diplomat urged the students to make the best use of the numerous opportunities made available to them particularly university education. "Please grab the opportunity to study hard," he said. He added that the best way to impress one's sponsor is to achieve good results.
For his part, Professor Andreas Steigen, vice chancellor UTG, thanked the Taiwanese government through Ambassador Shih for the kind gesture. He recalled that during the term of the former Taiwanese Ambassador Dr. Patrick Chang UTG built a strong relationship with the embassy and expressed appreciation at seeing the continuity of the ties. "We are very happy and pleased with your support. From the very beginning your country has been supportive to UTG," he said. He said that the role of UTG is to train candidates for the government and all sectors in the country for the human resources need of the country.
Professor Ousman Nyang, assistant vice-chancellor, also applauded the Taiwanese for their continued support to the socio-economic development of The Gambia.
Saikou Saidy Jeng, a beneficiary student, praised the Taiwanese embassy for coming to their aid, noting that without their intervention it would be difficult for them to attain a university education.
The beneficiaries are: Bakary Manneh, Saikou Saidy Jeng, Fatou Jammeh-Touray, Fallou Saho, Samba Bah, Mama Jaiteh, Mariam Jaye, Fatou Mbye, Babucarr Ceesay and Haddy Jeng.
