Addressing the students a few minutes before their departure, at a short ceremony held at the RVTH on Thursday evening, the deputy Taiwanese Ambassador to The Gambia, His Excellency Herman T.C Chiu, described the day a milestone of co-operation between the two countries particularly in the area of health. He reminded the students that the two countries attach a great emphasis on the attainment of higher standards of good health. He informed the students that their mission is a challenging one and competitive.

According to Taiwanese embassy second in command, the students will be studying more than a two-year postgraduate programme at the Tri-ServiceGeneralHospital in Taipei. Mr. Chiu added their stay at the said hospital would be an opportunity for both the hospital and the students. He wished them good luck and successful stay in Taiwan.

Among the seven students, three namely Dr. Alagie Manneh, Dr. Ousman Sanyang and Dr. Robert will be studying surgery, while Dr. Abubacarr Jagne, Dr. Mustapha Bittaye and Dr. Abdoulie Kieta are to study obstetrics and Gynecology and Dr. Lamin E.S Jaiteh will study internal medicine.

Dr. Mariatou Jallow, Chief Medical Director RVTH, described the day as a day of happiness and mixed feelings. She reminded the students that health is a priority to President Jammeh and government and that a lot is expected of them. She thanked the government and embassy of Taiwan for the kind gesture. She expressed her confidence in the students and also offered them prayers.

Dr. Bittaye, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, said the gesture came as a surprise to them noting that after their housemanship they know well that its not easy to go for further studies but thanks to Taiwan their dreams are coming true. He assured the sponsors and government that the students will live up to expectations.