By: Audrey Raymonda John
The People’s Republic of China, in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM), recently organized a research and training seminar for 20 journalists from Sierra Leone. The event took place at the National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA) in China on August 6th.
The head of the Sierra Leonean delegation, Mr. Bashiru Coomber, attached to the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, delivered opening remarks at the seminar. In his address, he conveyed greetings from the Minister of Information of Sierra Leone to the people of the People’s Republic of China and expressed deep appreciation to the Chinese government and MOFCOM for offering this invaluable opportunity to Sierra Leone’s media and information sectors. He highlighted that this initiative reflects the longstanding bilateral relationship between the two countries.
Mr. Coomber emphasized that the 20-member delegation from Sierra Leone was deeply grateful for being selected to participate in the seminar. He noted that the program would provide a unique opportunity for the delegates to enhance their understanding of global media dynamics, share knowledge, explore innovative practices, and foster meaningful exchanges with their counterparts in China.
He pointed out the crucial role that press officers and journalists play in an era where information shapes perception and drives development. He assured the Chinese hosts that the Sierra Leone delegation would approach the seminar with curiosity, excitement, openness, and a commitment to learning not only about China’s media landscape but also about the culture and technological forces shaping the future of journalism.
As a government official leading the delegation, Mr. Coomber made a heartfelt appeal on behalf of the Government of Sierra Leone and his colleagues. He requested that more opportunities like this, along with training and equipment, be provided in the future to further enhance the capacity of Sierra Leone’s press officers and journalists. He also urged the Chinese government and MOFCOM to continue strengthening the bilateral friendship between the two nations and to ensure the sustainability of such valuable initiatives.
Mr. Coomber also observed that the Sierra Leonean flag was not initially raised alongside the flags of other countries during the reception. After raising his concern, the flag was promptly displayed, symbolizing the importance of the occasion.
Following the opening remarks, Mr. Chang Jin, the Second Grade Counsellor of the International Cooperation Department of the National Radio and Television Administration, delivered a lecture on the media industry in China, Xi Jinping’s thoughts on culture, and NRTA’s international exchanges and cooperation.
During his presentation, Mr. Jin introduced the Five Major Development Concepts which guide China’s development strategy including innovation, goal which makes innovation the primary driver of development, focus; advancing science, technology, and entrepreneurship to transition from a manufacturing-based economy to one centered on innovation. Coordination, the goal focuses on promoting balanced development across regions and sectors. Focus: addressing inequality between urban and rural areas, coastal and inland regions, and ensuring coordinated economic and social progress. Green Development, it goal is to build an eco-friendly society.
Focus: Sustainable growth through environmental protection, pollution control, and clean energy solutions. Openness, the goal further integrates China with the global economy. Focus: Opening markets, attracting foreign investment, and promoting the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Sharing Goal ensures that development benefits all citizens. The focus gears towards inclusive growth, improving public services, reducing poverty, and enhancing social welfare.
These principles, Mr. Jin explained, are central to China’s development and are essential for understanding the broader context of media and cultural exchange between countries.
The training seminar provided Sierra Leone’s journalists with a valuable opportunity to deepen their knowledge of global media trends, Chinese culture, and technological innovations. As the two countries continue to strengthen their bilateral relations, the ongoing exchange of ideas and expertise in the media sector promises to yield lasting benefits for both nations.