The Fore Court of the Davidson Nicol administrative Building at Fourah Bay College (FBC) buzzed with ceremonial fervor as the institution celebrated its 197th Foundation Day Flag Raising Ceremony on February 19, 2024.
Typically observed on February 18 each year, this year’s commemoration shifted to the 19th due to the occasion falling on a Sunday.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Kelleh Gbawuru Mansaray articulated, “This year, our theme captures the essence of the focus of the College: Enhancing academic excellence, alongside arts and culture, sports and entertainment, and innovation and entrepreneurship.”
Chairing the ceremony was Mrs. Elizabeth L A Kamara, a distinguished lecturer from the Modern Languages Department, specifically the English Language Unit, who underscored the institution’s strides over the years, justifying the celebration of nearly two centuries of academic excellence.
Welcoming attendees, Deputy Registrar Mr. Brima Bah remarked, “Today marks another Flag Raising Day of our dear FBC, a heritage of our country. As we look back to the past glorious years and reflect on our present realities, we also look forward to the promise of a brighter future of FBC.”
He also lauded the progress catalyzed by Professor Mansaray’s administration, citing the acceleration of transformation through the DVC Agenda 2022-2025.
Professor Mansaray expressed satisfaction with the advancements, noting, “We are gradually overcoming our major challenge of inadequate funding to maintain the operations of the College.”
He highlighted initiatives such as the UNDP-supported UNIPOD Project and the Christex Foundation’s provision of online opportunities for students.
The unveiling of the Freetown Innovation Hub at the Plant Yard on campus garnered attention, with plans to utilize waste materials like plastic for construction purposes. Moreover, the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture has initiated Waste Management Certificate and Diploma Courses in collaboration with WHH.
Looking ahead to the Bicentennial celebration in 2027, Associate Professor Aisha Fofanah Ibrahim chairs the Committee overseeing planning efforts, including research, public engagement, and alumni mobilization. Plans also include upgrading the Havelock Playing Field to host professional sporting matches.
Acting University Registrar Mr. Munda J.S Lebbie commended the administration’s commitment to excellence and urged alumni support. Similarly, Chairman of the Academic Staff Association (ASA FBC) Mr. Ambrose T Rogers emphasized celebrating amidst challenges and pledged academic staff support towards quality management and academic excellence.
Reflecting on its origins, Fourah Bay College traces back to the establishment of the Sierra Leone colony, championed by British abolitionists Granville Sharp, Williams Wilberforce, and Thomas Clarkson.
The institution’s genesis occurred in the village of Leicester in 1808, evolving from a school founded by the Church Missionary Society under the leadership of Rev. Edward Bickersteth.
