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The Cuban Embassy has announced the awarding of scholarships to Sierra Leonean students, opening doors for them to pursue medical studies in Cuba’s renowned institutions.
This kind gesture marks a significant step in the ongoing partnership between the two nations.
Cuban Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Norma Sanchez Agula, expressed her deep appreciation for the long-standing relationship and urged the students to remain dedicated to their studies and uphold unity during their time in Cuba. “After your studies, you have to come home and serve your people because they need you. This is a good opportunity not only for you but for Sierra Leone,” she stated, adding that “Cubans are very nice people,” encouraging the students to embrace the local culture.
Abubakarr Kamara, a senior staff member at the Cuban Embassy, emphasized the uniqueness of the opportunity, advising the students to support one another during their studies. He noted, “You will be the first set of students to continue your scholarship after general medicine to become specialist doctors. Don’t go there as competitors; help each other succeed.”
Witson Tebeh Yankuba, Director of the Americas and South Pacific Division, representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reminded the students of their role as ambassadors for Sierra Leone. “Whatever good thing you do will send a positive signal about our country and strengthen our relationship with Cuba,” he advised.
Idrissa Sannoh, Deputy Director for the Western Region and Students Secretary at the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, thanked the Cuban government for its continued support and appealed for more scholarship slots for Sierra Leonean students. He encouraged the recipients to adapt to the new socio-cultural environment despite potential challenges.
Dr. Joe Amara Koroma, a Cardiology Specialist and former scholarship beneficiary, shared his experience, encouraging the students to stay focused. “When I arrived in Cuba in 2014 during the Ebola outbreak, the Spanish language and new environment were difficult at first. But I adapted and became one of the best students. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me for guidance,” he said.
One of the scholarship recipients, Nanette Sia Kassoh, expressed her gratitude, stating that studying medicine had been a lifelong dream despite her humble background. “This is a dream come true. I will work hard to make it count because many people are waiting for this opportunity,” she said.
