In a press conference today, the Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Dr. Ramatulai Wurie, announced significant developments regarding the University of Sierra Leone and other educational initiatives.
Dr. Wurie disclosed that the list of beneficiaries for the Sierra Leone Grant-in-aid would be published by the end of the day, expressing gratitude for the public’s patience.
Over 3000 students are anticipated to benefit from this aid. While the Grant-in-aid program will be phased out, specific allocations will remain for female STEM students, individuals with disabilities, and children of educators. Additionally, the gradual rollout of the Student Loan program was emphasized, with an investment conference planned to encourage public and private sector participation for its sustainability.
Addressing the commencement of lectures at Kono University, Dr. Wurie noted that programs including Mining Engineering, Computer Science, Environmental Science, and Agricultural Science are currently underway, with 158 students enrolled. Temporary utilization of existing resources and infrastructure is underway until the completion of the university’s construction.
Regarding recent controversies surrounding the University of Sierra Leone, Dr. Wurie clarified the appointment of an Acting Vice Chancellor and Principal, emphasizing its necessity to maintain operational continuity.
She explained that the decision to dissolve the University Court was based on advice from the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC), which deemed it ineffective and incompatible with the university’s mandate.
In response to developments, Professor Lawrence Kamara, the appointed Acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal, has resigned, with the Minister accepting his resignation.
An oversight committee, as recommended by TEC, has been established to oversee interim operations until the Ministry establishes a new University Court and a Search Committee to appoint a permanent Vice-Chancellor.
The Ministry assures the public of its commitment to resolving these issues in alignment with educational objectives and stakeholder input.
