Fifteen Fijian students who will be travelling to China to study were reminded yesterday to make use of the opportunity.

The Chinese Ambassador, Zhang Ping, said this opportunity would enable them to contribute to the development of the country in the future.

“Education is the foundation of a country’s development. Both as developing countries, China and Fiji have the same urgent needs and face similar challenges in the development of education,” Mr Zhang said.

He said there was great demand for high calibre talents for the development of the country and the Chinese government was willing to share their experiences of education development and education resources with Fiji.

“After further study in China, Fijian students can have better mastery of the academic knowledge and professional skills, so as to make greater contribution to the building of their motherland,” he said.

“I believe they will become the new force of building Fiji into a modern state. You are the future of your motherland and your family.”

The acting Permanent Secretary for Youth and Sports, Josefa Sania, said since 2008 the Chinese government had provided more than 160 scholarships to Fijian students.

“This partnership between the two governments has greatly benefitted Fiji by leveraging on technology and skills,” Mr Sania said.

The students selected will study engineering, finance and medicine.

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