Chinese Ambassador to Somalia Qin Jian speaks at the Farewell Ceremony for Somali Students Awarded Scholarship of China in Mogadishu, Sept 6, 2017. [Photo/Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Federal Republic of Somalia]

MOGADISHU - Forty-two Somali students drawn from different parts of the country were Wednesday awarded scholarships to study in various universities in China.

Chinese Ambassador to Somalia Qin Jian said the students who completed their secondary education in Somalia will pursue both undergraduate and graduate studies in China and will be expected to come back and deploy their skills in building the country.

Qin said the award of scholarship was in line with China's commitment in supporting the Horn of Africa nation's recovery process and deepening diplomatic ties between the two countries.

"We have selected students from all Somali regions notably Somaliland, Puntland, Galmudug, South West, HirShabelle and Mogadishu. I am confident this scholarship programme will be of so much help to the students and the country at large," said Qin.

Somalia's Minister for High Education Abdirahman Dahir Osman hailed the scholarship offer as a major milestone in China's continued support to his country, adding that this was instrumental in affirming established relations between the two countries.

"Our relations with China have always remained very strong. This assistance is not new. China has extended support to us on many occasions over the years," said Osman.

Ahmed Hassan, one of the beneficiaries, expressed joy upon receiving the scholarship award letter.

"I thank the Chinese government for this scholarship award. I am very happy to have qualified for this scholarship," said Hassan, who will be studying for a master degree in China.