The Executive Master of Public Health Program (EMPH) of Peking University School of Public Health received acclaim from its overseas graduates. Sponsored by the Chinese Government Scholarship for China-Africa Friendship in 2019, 2020 and 2021, the program has produced nearly 30 public health professionals for 12 countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

　　28-year-old Timothy Teddy Nah is one of the program’s 18 overseas graduates. He said he is a beneficiary of the BRI, and that so is his country, Liberia:

　　“The joining with the EMPH program at Peking University was not easy but I am excited to complete the study today. I remember when I was selected admission in 2021 at the prestigious university, my excitement grown for education and to visit this great nation (China). Nevertheless, the prevention of traveling due to the epidemic compel all of the international student to study online but after the government consider decision on opening the country, I personally was so excited, have seen how Chinese have work to build infrastructure in Liberia could even make you create love to see China. China and Liberia have had a longstanding relationship for which my country can boast of numerous benefits ranging from grants, construction of the Monrovia Vocational Training Center (MVTC) to the construction of the famous Ministerial Complex.

　　“From the little time spent in China, I have realized that the education system here in China is so unique and compel the best out of students in meeting with global standard of education. I have also watch international and local news on China’s best TV station; CGTN, and I am really fascinated by the improvements in every sector ranging from a fast growing economy, technology advancement to global education ranking. China is a country with diverse cultural norms and values, and their expansion in other parts of the world through trade, healthcare and bilateral relationship has set them far above many developing countries. The advancement in the above mentioned sectors has horned China the reputation as one of the best countries in the world.

　　“Also understanding the opportunities and advantages when attending Peking University which set you on the global market to opportunities, high potentials individuals and many others have created so many excitements in me completing today. The prestige as product of the Health Science Center and experience of the beautiful environment creating conducive learning opportunities is something I will cherish and miss a lot. In conclusion, with optimism I believe am set for the market and now I can run my career as a professional Public Health expert.”

　　Timothy Teddy Nah and defense committee

　　Timothy Teddy Nah and Prof. Chang Chun, his supervisor

　　During the COVID-19 pandemic, many overseas graduates could not return to claim their certificates in person, but staff at the PKU School of Public Health managed to send out the certificates by mail. For that, many graduates expressed their gratitude and excitement:

　　“I am overjoyed to announce that I have reached a significant milestone. I have just collected my master’s degree award paper this night from DHL. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and your support. Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. I wanted to express my sincerest thanks for all that you have done for me. You have truly made a difference in my life, and I am grateful for your unwavering support.”

　　Hawa Catherine Jabaty

　　Hawa Catherine Jabaty receiving the certificates

　　“I am so humbled by the Scholarship of Master’s Program for Public Health granted to me by the Government of China. This journey has been so exciting of course with full of difficulties and challenges. I wish to thank my supervisor for the tremendous support and guidance in ensuring that the Master’s program is successful. I want to appreciate the government of China for exposing me to the diverse cross-cultural encounters and the great cultural environment of China during the studies provided a good ambiance for the studies. It was indeed great. I am so humbled to be part on the graduation list.”

　　Mutesi Christine Fortunate Rebecca

　　Mutesi Christine Fortunate Rebecca receiving the certificates

　　“The feeling of graduating from Peking University is truly fantastic after long days of classes, longer hours of studying, countless sleepless nights, challenges, obstacles. I want to use this opportunity to thank all these people for their support and contributions during my study at Peking University. I appreciate the Admin (Xiangrong Xu) who been so supportive as well as lectures. We'd also like to thank the my both my Academic and practicum Supervisors (Professors Fuqiang Cui and Junling Sun), China CDC team, (Canjun Zheng, Xiaopeng Qi, Dr Lili Wang, Chunchun Zhao and Chuizhao Xue), and Ministry of Health and Sanitation team (Doris Harding, Sr Anitta Kamara Alie Tia and Sheku Koroma).”

　　Esther Debora Ngegba

　　Esther Debora Ngegba receiving the certificates

　　Oba, Adenike Adetola receiving the certificates

　　Raphael kelechi Ajah receiving the certificates

　　Written by: Fan Xiaofei

　　Edited by: Liu Xin

　　Source: Peking University School of Public Health