Regarding his study and research in China as the "gateway" for his nation's development in the future, Kamara expects gaining experience here could make a difference back at home.

"We are still at the embryonic stage of aquaculture, but my direction of mixing agriculture and aquaculture, I think, can be a very good technique to alleviate the livelihood of the farmers in my country," he added.

Welcoming his third Chinese New Year, Kamara, who loves hotpot the most, said he will keep working on his research over the holiday. "China is actually like a home to me. China and Sierra Leone have a very good relationship, and most of our infrastructural development and agriculture has been supported by China. I am lucky to be here to pursue this path, and I will go back and give significantly back to the society in my nation."