At a Town Hall Meeting at Fourah Bay College, on Thursday 26th September, 2024, stakeholders in the university community and beyond are holding a crucial conversation on the future of public universities.

The event is taking place at the FBC Multipurpose Hall at 10am.

Universities in the country are struggling financially; a huge leap in enrollment figures as a result of the success of the Free Quality Education has resulted to the many secondary passing students going to the universities but with money to foot their fees.

In the buildup to this conversation, this is what the Minister of Technical and Higher Education has written about the importance of today’s conversation: A conversation on the quality of higher and technical education is crucial because it directly affects the development of human capital, which is essential for the growth and sustainability of any economy. Quality education ensures that graduates are not only academically proficient but also equipped with the practical skills needed by the labor market. This is especially relevant in Sierra Leone, where our focus on economic development through sectors like agriculture, renewable energy, and digital technology which aligns with our national development plan.

Addressing the quality of education helps we tackle key challenges, such as inadequate infrastructure, curricula that is not aligned with the labour market and the need for capacity building among trainers. It also creates an opportunity to involve key stakeholders—government, students, educational institutions, and communities—in taking collective responsibility for improving and maintaining educational standards.

This discussion allows us to reflect on our progress, share best practices, and identify gaps that require immediate attention, whether in policy formulation, resource allocation, or partnerships. It fosters a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement, ensuring that our education system produces globally competitive graduates who can meaningfully contribute to national development.

Furthermore, this conversation is critical because of the importance President Bio places on young people as he foundation of Sierra Leone’s future. His strong commitment to human capital development, particularly through the Free Quality Education initiative, reflects his belief that investing in the youth is investing in the nation’s prosperity. As the majority of our population, young people deserve an education system that not only imparts knowledge but also equips them with the skills, innovation, and entrepreneurial mindset required to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

By enhancing the quality of higher and technical education, we ensure that the next generation is well-prepared to assume leadership roles, drive economic transformation, and elevate Sierra Leone’s global standing. This commitment aligns with President Bio’s vision of empowering youth to become agents of change and leaders in their fields, making the discussion on educational quality a top priority for achieving that vision.