The Sierra Leone Students’ Union in China (SLSUC) outgoing executive headed by President Emeritus, Madam Josephine Margret Williams, successfully held its Three-Day National Convention from 15th – 17th February 2026 in Beijing, People’s Republic of China. The convention brought together Sierra Leonean students from various cities across China in a spirit of unity, democratic engagement, and national pride.
DAY 1 – Arrival, Meet & Greet, and Institutional Engagement
The convention commenced on the 15th February with the arrival of students from different provinces and municipalities across China to Beijing. The day featured:
• A meet-and-greet session fostering unity and networking among students.
• Formal introductions and interactions.
• Presentation and introduction of the Electoral Commission to the Embassy of the Republic of Sierra Leone in the People’s Republic of China hierarchy, reaffirming institutional collaboration and transparency in the electoral process.
This engagement underscored SLSUC’s commitment to maintaining strong diplomatic ties and ensuring credible student leadership processes.
DAY 2 – Sports, Governance & Democratic Discourse
The second day of the convention was both engaging and transformative. Activities included:
• A friendly football match to promote team spirit and solidarity among members.
• Adoption of the Amended Constitution of SLSUC after deliberations.
• Official manifesto readings by candidates, providing members with clear policy directions and leadership visions ahead of the elections.
The amended constitution was not adopted as a result of a simple majority vote against the adoption for flaws that needs to be corrected, especially on the powers of the President in Article 9 in the amended constitution.
DAY 3 – Election, Swearing-In & Transition
The final day, 17th February, was dedicated to the democratic election process. Activities included:
• Conduct of elections.
• Declaration of winners.
• Oath of Office ceremony.
• Partial handing over of secretariat files and official stamps.
• Departure of delegates back to their respective cities across China.
Newly Elected Executive (2026–2027)
The Convention successfully elected eight (8) representatives to constitute the new National Executive, headed by:
• President:Joshua Mornya
• Vice President: Aminata Tarawallie
• Secretary General: Mohamed Barbah Conteh
• Deputy Secretary General: Thomas Metzger
• Education & Welfare Officer Balansama Marah
• Finance Secretary: Mariama Gbessay Kamara
• Treasurer: Mohamed Alieu Bah
• Public Relations Officer: Sallieu Jalloh
The newly elected Executive has pledged to promote unity, student welfare, academic excellence, institutional collaboration, and effective representation of Sierra Leonean students across China.
Commitment to Unity and Democratic Values
The three-day convention demonstrated SLSUC’s dedication to democratic principles, accountability, and inclusivity. It also reaffirmed the Union’s role in fostering national cohesion among Sierra Leonean students abroad, while maintaining strong diplomatic engagement with the Sierra Leone Embassy in China.
The Sierra Leone Students’ Union in China remains committed to strengthening student leadership, promoting academic excellence, and serving as a bridge between students and national institutions.
