By Pateh Bah

Students from different universities have, during a recent meeting held at the Tabital Pulaaku International headquarters on Adelaide Street, hailed the Organization’s President who is also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of BSB International, popular business magnate and philanthropist, Alhaji Juldeh Sowe for awarding scholarship to more than five hundred students to pursue university education.

Making statement, a Civil Engineering student of Fourah Bay College (FBC), University of Sierra Leone (USL), Mariama Seray Jalloh, expressed thanks and appreciation to the President of Tabital Pulaaku International, Sierra Leone Chapter, Alhaji Juldeh Sowe for awarding her scholarship to pursue university education. She further commended the popular business mogul and philanthropist for not only helping her directly but also for what she considered as a very good initiative in complementing government’s effort to provide a solid base in enhancing human capital development and transforming the country’s educational sector. She further stated that Alhaji Juldeh Sowe’s kindness and support have touched her in ways she cannot adequately express in words. She maintained that the business magnate and philanthropist is someone whose passion for education cannot be overemphasized, adding that his investment in her education will not only benefit her but will also ripple through the community and beyond.

On his part, a final-year student of the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM), USL, Hassan Jalloh, also lavished praises on Alhaji Juldeh Sowe for giving him the opportunity to become one of the beneficiaries, stressing that his generosity will not go unnoticed, as according to him, he is committed to working diligently and making the most of the educational opportunities afforded him. The final-year student waxed lyrical about Alhaji Juldeh Sowe for providing him with the opportunity to pursue his academic goals without worry or distraction. He furthered that Alhaji Juldeh Sowe’s belief in the power of education speaks volumes, stressing that his willingness to invest in students’ future mean the world to them.

A recent graduate from the University of Science and Technology (UNIMTECH), Mariama Kumbu-Smart, also expressed thanks and appreciation to Alhaji Juldeh Sowe for awarding her scholarship throughout her undergraduate studies. She further described the business tycoon as a philanthropist who always bends over backwards to ensure the happiness of others. Miss Kumba-Smart maintained that Alhaji Juldeh Sowe has won plaudits from many quarters, describing him as philanthropist whose generosity has become the beacon of hope for a good number of Sierra Leoneans.

In his response, Alhaji Juldeh Sowe commended the students for their kind words and appreciation. “It is truly humbling to see all of you here today, and I feel incredibly blessed to be part of your journey. The decision to support your education was not just about financial assistance—it was about investing in your potential and believing in the bright futures you all represent,” the business mogul and philanthropist stated.

He furthered that each one of the students has a unique gift, a vision, and the drive to make a difference, stressing that education is the key that unlocks so many doors, and that he has no doubts that with the knowledge and skills they gain, they will not only transform their own lives but also uplift their communities and the world around them.

“Seeing your progress, your dedication, and your passion for learning reassures me that this was a worthy cause. But remember, this is just the beginning. The world is in need of leaders, innovators, and change-makers like you. Continue to work hard, dream big, and never forget to give back when you’re in a position to do so. Thank you again for this heartfelt gathering. I am immensely proud of each and every one of you, and I look forward to watching you all soar to greater heights. The future is yours,” Alhaji Juldeh Sowe concluded.

Adding a touch of glamour to the occasion, the beneficiaries, as sign of appreciation, presented a trophy and plaque to the President of Tabital Pulaaku International, Alhaji Juldeh Sowe and executive members, respectively, for what they considered as not only a kind gesture but a move to complement government’s efforts to foster human development in the country.

It goes without saying that the Tabital Pulaaku scholarship scheme has made a significant impact across the country as students from the sixteen districts continue to benefit from the scheme, a kind gesture that relieve them from a significant financial burden.

In another development, the President of Tabital Pulaaku International, Sierra Leone Chapter, Alhaji Juldeh Sowe on 26th September, 2024, met with the Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General, Peter Kakowou Lavahun  and  project team at the Pulaaku International headquarters on Adelaide Street, where the business tycoon and philanthropist pledged his support to refurbish the Benguema Training Centre by not only constructing a pavilion but also providing state-of-the-art training facilities so as to ensure that the Military Training ground meet international bench marks.

During the meeting with the Chief of Defence Staff and the project team, Alhaji Juldeh Sowe stated that it’s an honour to meet the Chief of Defence Staff, adding that as someone who is committed to the growth and stability of the country, he is eager to assist in the refurbishment of the Military Training Centre. “Our military is the backbone of national security, and I believe upgrading the training facility will enhance our troops’ capabilities. I’m ready to contribute resources in order to make this a reality, ensuring our soldiers receive the best training and equipment possible,” the business magnate and philanthropist stated.

Responding, Lieutenant General, Peter Kakowou Lavahun, on behalf of the entire defence forces, extended his heartfelt gratitude to Alhaji Juldeh Sowe for what he considered as generous pledge to support the refurbishment of the country’s military center.

“This contribution will significantly enhance our capacity to serve and protect the nation. Your commitment to our security and development is both commendable and deeply appreciated. Together, we strengthen the defence of our country and the well-being of the people. Thank you for your unwavering support,” the military chief concluded.