By: Audrey Raymonda John
Twenty Sierra Leonean journalists, press attachés, and government officials have successfully concluded a 23-day intensive media training seminar organized by the Research and Training Institute (RTI) of China’s National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA). The closing ceremony was held on August 26, 2025, in Beijing, China.
In his closing address, Mr. Liu Linhai, Deputy Dean of the RTI, described the seminar as a “fruitful moment” where media professionals gathered to deepen their understanding of cross-cultural communication, media technology, and China’s broadcasting landscape. He extended warm congratulations to all participants on the successful completion of the program and expressed gratitude to the experts, scholars, and staff for their dedication and contributions.
“This 21-day journey has been not only a profound exchange of ideas but also a rich cross-cultural dialogue,” Mr. Liu said.
Participants engaged in comprehensive learning sessions covering topics such as cross-cultural communication, the dissemination of traditional Chinese culture, and journalism in the modern era. Special lectures were delivered by leading Chinese professionals in broadcasting, television, and artificial intelligence (AI), who demonstrated how cutting-edge technologies are revolutionizing media industries.
Topics included the practical applications of AI, the operational aspects of new broadcasting tools, and advancements in 5G and ultra-high-definition television. The seminar provided valuable insights and inspiration for participants to apply in their home country’s media landscape.
Beyond the classroom, the participants traveled to Shanxi Province for a cultural and technological immersion experience. They visited a modern agricultural demonstration zone where they learned about coir drip irrigation technology and observed the growth of tamarillo trees. At Donghu Vinegar Garden, they explored the centuries-old craft of vinegar-making, while a visit to the Taigu Guangyuyuan Traditional Chinese Medicine Cultural Industrial Park exposed them to traditional remedies and the preservation of national intangible cultural heritage.
The group also took part in a hands-on Shanxi paper-cutting workshop, experiencing first-hand the charm of traditional Chinese folk art.
Working in groups, the participants produced several short video projects, including Across Mountains and Seas, We Meet, China Through the Eyes of Sierra Leone, A China You Haven’t Seen, and A Taste of China, A Glimpse of the Future. These creative works emphasized themes of openness, cooperation, and shared futures between the two countries.
“Though the seminar is ending, the knowledge gained and seeds of friendship will continue to grow,” Mr. Liu remarked. “We look forward to deeper cooperation in content creation, technology, and institutional development between our two nations’ media sectors.”
He called for continued collaboration in addressing global challenges such as disinformation and the digital divide, and encouraged mutual learning among civilizations to build a fairer and more inclusive global media order.
“As an ancient Chinese saying goes, ‘True friendship knows no distance; even when far apart, we are still close at heart,’” he concluded.
On behalf of the Sierra Leonean delegation, Mr. Marius Musa Kargbo expressed deep appreciation to the Government of the People’s Republic of China, through the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) and NRTA, for organizing the transformative program.
“This training has been enriching and eye-opening, providing us with vital skills and exposure that will significantly enhance our media practices back home,” Mr. Kargbo stated.
He highlighted the impactful sessions, particularly those on Xi Jinping’s Thought on Culture, delivered by Mr. Chang Jin, and a lecture on cross-cultural communication and cultural campaigns by Professor Hongli. Equally noteworthy were discussions on the role of artificial intelligence in journalism, co-hosted by professors from the Communication University of China, and a class on animation and media storytelling.
The delegation also enjoyed site visits to historic and technological landmarks in Beijing and Shanxi, including the Great Wall, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, Beijing AI Valley, and the CPC Museum. These excursions showcased China’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage while fostering modernization and innovation.
Special thanks were extended to the seminar’s organizing team Madam Sherry, Tiffany, and Gloria whose efforts ensured the smooth coordination of the program.
Mr. Kargbo noted that the partnership is already bearing fruit, citing China’s \$5 million investment in revamping Sierra Leone’s Government Printing Press as a sign of the tangible support for media development.
“This program is not merely academic; it is a bridge of friendship and cooperation,” he said. “We return home inspired and committed to applying the knowledge gained for the growth of our media sector and the continued strengthening of Sierra Leone–China relations.”