HARARE, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- A total of 61 Zimbabwean students on Friday received scholarships under the China-Zimbabwe Friendship Scholarship program for their excellent academic achievements and Chinese language skills.

Speaking at the award ceremony in Harare, Zimbabwe's capital, Zimbabwean Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Frederick Shava said collaboration in the education sector continues to strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Zimbabwe.

"The China-Zimbabwe Friendship Scholarship stands as a tangible testament to this enduring relationship. It demonstrates China's commitment not only to human capital development in Zimbabwe, but also to the shared vision of advancing national development through skills, knowledge, and innovation," said Shava.

"As we mark 45 years of diplomatic friendship, let us continue to strengthen cooperation in higher education. Let us continue to strengthen partnerships in innovation, science, and technology. Together, we can build a future characterized by shared growth, characterized by mutual understanding, and sustainable development," said the minister.

Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Zhou Ding said the scholarship not only provides financial assistance but also represents an investment in the students' potential and a recognition of their hard work.

He noted that over the years, China and Zimbabwe have built a comprehensive educational partnership characterized by robust exchanges, scholarship programs, and inter-university collaboration.

"This dynamic synergy in education forms a vital part of our broader partnership as an all-weather community with a shared future," said Zhou, adding that China stands ready to support the strengthening of Zimbabwe's education sector.

Kundiso Hwerekwere, one of the scholarship awardees, said the award will motivate him to study the Chinese language with increased focus and passion.

"Learning the language has certainly increased my knowledge about the Chinese culture, something I have always wondered about ever since I was a kid. From watching Chinese movies, I'm often curious about Chinese, and now that I learn Chinese, I have acquired some knowledge about the Chinese culture," he said.

During the ceremony, a total of 19 students also received awards for an essay contest, a competition held to mark the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Zimbabwe. ■