MOSCOW, Russia , September 10, 2025
The Embassy of the Republic of Sierra Leone in Moscow has announced that stipends for government-sponsored students in the Russian Federation for the 2024–2025 academic year have finally been credited to the Mission’s account in Turkey. According to the Embassy, preparations are underway to transfer the funds to Moscow, with disbursements expected to begin on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
In a formal statement issued today, the Embassy urged all eligible students to present themselves in person to collect their stipends, emphasizing that no exceptions will be made. The deadline for collection is November 30, 2025, after which any unclaimed funds will be returned to Sierra Leone’s consolidated revenue account.
To receive their stipends, students must present the following documentation:
- A valid Sierra Leonean passport with a current Russian visa
- An up-to-date academic progress report
- A university-issued identity card
- Contact details of the Dean of Foreign Students at their institution
The Embassy clarified that only students enrolled in the university they originally departed Sierra Leone for will be recognized, unless a formal change of institution has been communicated to both the Embassy and the Ministry of Higher and Technical Education.
Officials noted that the documentation is essential for compiling academic progress reports to support future stipend allocations. “We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to seeing you all,” the statement concluded.
This announcement comes in the wake of mounting pressure from Sierra Leonean students studying in Russia, who had earlier voiced their dissatisfaction over delayed stipend payments. In a press release issued by their national union, students described being “stranded without financial support,” citing difficulties in covering critical expenses such as medical insurance, hostel fees, visa renewals, and basic necessities including food and utilities.
The Mission’s renewed commitment to transparency and structured disbursement is a step toward restoring confidence and ensuring students can focus on their academic progress.
