Freetown – April 15, 2025: The Vice Chancellor and Principal of the University of Sierra Leone (USL), Professor Aiah R. Lebbie, has raised concerns over the increasing trend of academic inbreeding within the university system, calling for a more diverse approach to staff development.
In a memo addressed to all academic and administrative staff, Professor Lebbie emphasized the importance of academic diversity and encouraged staff members to pursue postgraduate and doctoral studies at institutions outside the USL system.
“It has come to my attention that an increasing number of staff members within the University of Sierra Leone pursue all their academic qualifications—undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral degrees—within our university system,” Professor Lebbie stated. “While we take great pride in the academic excellence offered by our institutions, this growing trend of academic inbreeding poses long-term challenges to institutional growth and innovation.”
He argued that exposure to different academic environments fosters intellectual development, fresh perspectives, and enhanced research and teaching capacity.
“As a university aiming to maintain relevance in an ever-evolving global academic landscape, we must actively encourage our staff to seek at least one of their higher degrees, particularly at the postgraduate level, at other reputable institutions outside of USL,” he added.
Professor Lebbie particularly urged young academics, including Research and Teaching Assistants (RTAs), to consider furthering their studies abroad.
“They can gain broader insights and return with renewed energy and innovative approaches,” he said.
The Vice Chancellor also called on key university leadership—including Deputy Vice Chancellors, Deans of Faculties, Directors of Institutes, Heads of Departments, and Heads of Units—to support this initiative.
He requested that they advise staff accordingly and assist them in identifying and exploring viable study opportunities and partnerships with external institutions.
“Let us continue to uphold our commitment to academic excellence by embracing diverse educational experiences that will enrich both the individual and the university,” Professor Lebbie concluded.
