Peking University, January 5, 2024: The Executive Master of Public Health Program (EMPH) of Peking University School of Public Health has received acclaim from its overseas graduates. Sponsored by the Chinese Government Scholarship for China-Africa Friendship in 2019, 2020, and 2021, the program has trained nearly 30 public health professionals for 12 countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Timothy Teddy Nah, 28, is one of the program's 18 overseas graduates. He says he is a beneficiary of the BRI, and so is his home country, Liberia. He shares with the School of Public Health his words of appreciation for the program, which has been edited for length and clarity:

The enrollment process into the EMPH program at Peking University was not easy, but I am excited to complete the study. I remember when I was selected in 2021 at the prestigious university, I couldn't hide my excitement to travel to this great nation, China, for my education. After the government loosened the COVID-19-related restrictions for international travels, I personally was very excited, having seen how Chinese workers build infrastructure in Liberia, which had made me all the more enthusiastic to see China. China and Liberia have had a longstanding relationship, from which my country has benefited a lot, from the construction of the Monrovia Vocational Training Center (MVTC) to the construction of the famous Ministerial Complex.

Despite my relatively short stay in China, I have realized that the education system here is so unique that it could bring the best out of students. I am also very fascinated by the improvements in every sector of China, ranging from its economic growth and technological advancement to educational development. China is a country with diverse cultural norms and values, and its exchanges with other parts of the world through trade, healthcare, and bilateral relations have set a good example for other developing countries. The advancement in the above-mentioned sectors has honed China 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 potential individuals and many others have created so many excitements in me completing today. The prestige as a product of the Health Science Center and experience of the beautiful environment creating conducive learning opportunities are something I will cherish and miss a lot. In conclusion, with optimism, I believe I am set for the market and now I can run my career as a professional Public Health expert.

Timothy Teddy Nah and the 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 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 of the graduation list.

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 has been so supportive as well as lectures. We'd also like to thank both my Academic and practicum Supervisors (Professors Cui Fuqiang and Sun Junling), China CDC team, (Zheng Canjun, Qi Xiaopeng, Dr. Wang Lili, Zhao Chunchun, and Xue Chuizhao), and Ministry of Health and Sanitation team (Doris Harding, Sr. Anitta Kamara Alie Tia and Sheku Koroma).

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