SIERRA LEONE DELEGATION SHINES AT CHINA-LED YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SEMINAR
By Ibrahim Joenal Sesay
232news –
Sierra Leone has strengthened its international development ties following a high-level three-week seminar on youth employment and economic transformation hosted in China under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
The programme, organized by the International Economic Cooperation Center of Fujian Province under the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China, brought together participants from developing countries, with the Sino-Sierra Leone Alumni Association playing a prominent role.
Described by participants as “transformative,” the seminar delivered intensive training in youth employment strategies, digital entrepreneurship, green finance, artificial intelligence, and cross-border trade. Experts from academia and industry provided practical tools aimed at tackling unemployment and boosting economic growth across participating nations.
“This seminar has equipped us with real, applicable solutions to address youth unemployment back home,” a delegate noted, emphasizing the importance of innovation and policy alignment in today’s global economy.
A major highlight of the programme was participation in the BRICS Forum held in Xiamen, where delegates engaged with global policymakers, investors, and development experts. Discussions focused on the future of work, artificial intelligence, green energy, and international cooperation, reinforcing the growing partnership between emerging economies.
Participants also undertook cultural and educational visits across China. In Zhengzhou, delegates experienced a traditional tea ceremony that symbolized unity and cultural exchange, while in Beijing, they explored cutting-edge technology hubs alongside historic landmarks such as the Forbidden City, showcasing China’s blend of innovation and heritage.
Further exposure in Fuzhou included visits to high-tech enterprises such as Foxit, where participants gained hands-on experience in digital transformation and global technology solutions. Business visits to major markets also provided practical lessons in entrepreneurship, negotiation, and customer engagement.
In a moment of national pride, a Sierra Leonean representative was selected to deliver the closing ceremony address on behalf of all international participants — a recognition widely seen as a testament to the country’s active engagement and leadership throughout the programme.
The closing remarks highlighted the importance of global cooperation, youth empowerment, and sustained partnerships between China and developing nations, while reaffirming Sierra Leone’s commitment to applying the knowledge gained.
Organizers, including China’s Ministry of Commerce and the Fujian International Economic Cooperation Center, were praised for their professionalism and hospitality, alongside the support of the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone.
As delegates return home, expectations are high that the lessons learned will translate into concrete action. Stakeholders believe the initiative will play a critical role in advancing youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development in Sierra Leone.
The seminar not only strengthened diplomatic and economic ties but also reinforced what participants described as a “watertight friendship” between Sierra Leone and China, one anchored in shared development goals and mutual respect.
