Sierra Leone’s Education Ministry Bids Farewell to 33 Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Awardees

The Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE) officially bade farewell to 33 Sierra Leonean students awarded the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship to pursue undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies in Hungary.

The ceremony, held at the Ministry’s Conference Room, Sababu Building, New England Ville, brought together senior MTHE officials, parents, and the awardees.

Student Secretary George A. Dambo explained that 50 candidates had been nominated, of which 33 were ultimately awarded the scholarship. He noted that the package included tuition fees and monthly allowances to support living costs, while advising students to budget wisely.

Madam Fatmata Kaiwa, Director of Science and Technology, congratulated the students for excelling in the rigorous application process. She reminded them that they were going abroad as ambassadors of Sierra Leone and cautioned against engaging in local politics or activities that could jeopardize their stay.

Director of Higher Education, Emmanuel J. Momoh Esq., emphasized the rarity of such an opportunity, highlighting that only 33 out of more than 50 nominees were selected. He urged the students to focus on their studies, carry themselves with dignity, and represent their families, the Ministry, and Sierra Leone well.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister, Chief Technical and Higher Education Officer Dr. Josephus Brimah highlighted the cultural and academic challenges the students would face in Hungary. He advised them to respect the country’s laws, uphold academic integrity,
avoid plagiarism, and support one another.

Scholarship recipient Mr. Samuel Flo Mokuwa, who will pursue a Master’s in Pharmacy at the University of Pécs, expressed gratitude on behalf of his colleagues. He noted that out of nearly 800 applicants, only 33 were chosen and described the opportunity as once-in-a-lifetime. He pledged that the students were determined to raise Sierra Leone’s flag high, gain world-class knowledge, and return to contribute to national development, particularly in healthcare and pharmaceutical services.