Freetown, August 18, 2026 (SLENA) — The Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE) has formally bid farewell to 26 Sierra Leonean students awarded scholarships under the 2026/2027 Stipendium Hungaricum Programme. The beneficiaries will pursue undergraduate, master’s, and PhD studies in Hungary.
Selection Process
Acting Students Secretary George A. Dambo revealed that over 1,000 Sierra Leoneans applied for the programme. Following screening and interviews, 300 were shortlisted, 75 nominated, and 26 finally selected. He noted that 91 Sierra Leoneans are already studying in Hungary, with the number expected to rise to about 117 once the new awardees enroll. Dambo expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Sierra Leone High Commission in Accra, and Hungary’s Honorary Consul in Freetown for their support with visa and biometric processes.
Guidance to Beneficiaries
Director of Science Education Fatmata Kaiwa urged the students to remain disciplined and committed, reminding them that they represent Sierra Leone abroad. She cautioned against misconduct and academic dishonesty, stressing that their performance could influence future scholarship opportunities for others.
Director of the Europe Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Akibo‑Jones, encouraged the awardees to uphold Sierra Leone’s reputation through hard work and responsible conduct. She disclosed that the Ministry is coordinating with Sierra Leone’s diplomatic mission in Berlin to provide support during their stay in Hungary.
Senior Human Resources Officer William Saha advised the students to respect Hungarian laws, culture, and social practices. He warned against distractions from part‑time jobs or social activities and urged them to return home after graduation to contribute their knowledge and international experience to national development.
Students’ Voices
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Eliza Akibo‑Jones, who will study International Relations at Corvinus University of Budapest, expressed gratitude for the opportunity. She pledged to work hard and return with knowledge that would aid Sierra Leone’s development, while appealing for continued support with visa and travel costs.
Another beneficiary, Malikie Sheriff, set to pursue a Master’s in International and European Trade Law at the University of Szeged, said the scholarship would help address Sierra Leone’s shortage of specialised expertise in trade law. He pledged to use his training to strengthen the country’s legal jurisprudence and support businesses engaged in international trade.
National Development Goal
Officials emphasized that the scholarships are not only personal opportunities but also national investments. The beneficiaries were urged to make responsible use of the programme, comply with its requirements, and return home equipped with knowledge and skills to drive Sierra Leone’s development.
Correspondent: Richard Williams