(August 28, 2016, Golden Peacock Hotel)
Honourable Dr. Emmanuel Fabiano, Minister of Education, Science and Technology，
Recipients of the 2016 Chinese Government Scholarship,
Friends from the media,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good afternoon. Today we are gathered here to see off the 88 Chinese Government Scholarship winners. First of all, I would like to congratulate all of you on receiving this precious opportunity.
More than 1000 Malawian applied for the Chinese Government Scholarships this year, which means every one of you has beaten 10 other applicants.
In a few days, you will leave for China. I wish you have a pleasant stay in China. And more importantly, I challenge every one of you to make full use of this opportunity to gain as much knowledge as possible and broaden your horizon as much as you can. In a few years, upon completion of your study in China, you will be back to serve your nation.
Dear students, Ladies and Gentlemen,
As many of you may recall, the Chinese Government Scholarship program was launched in 2008. Since then, the Chinese Government Scholarship has grown popular year by year, and has become a new option for those who excel in their academic performance.
The total number of scholarship recipients, since the diplomatic relations between China and Malawi, has reached 444. Some of them have already concluded their study and devoted themselves in the national development of Malawi. In the days to come, the Chinese Government will continue to offer the scholarships to enable more Malawian students to pursue their dreams in China.
Dear Students, Ladies and Gentlemen,
China is committed to enhancing educational exchanges with Malawi. Apart from the scholarship programmes, every year we offer training opportunities to more than 500 Malawians. China has also helped build up education facilities in Malawi, such as the Malawi University of Science and Technology, a secondary school in Thyolo, and a primary school in Lilongwe. Through those programmes and projects, we aim at addressing the problems such as shortage of talent, which holds back Malawi’s development.
China-Malawi relations are flourishing as never before. Just two weeks ago, the Confucius Institute was launched, and Malawian people will find it easier to have access to Chinese language and culture. You are young people, and young people are the future of a nation. The development of Malawi is counting on you. While in China, I believe you will finally use the time, study hard and enjoy your study in China. I also hope every one of you will become an ambassador and envoy of friendship in promoting China-Malawi relations.
Thank you!