By Alpha Abu & Prince J. Musa in Kenema
The first university in the Eastern Region of Sierra Leone has been inaugurated in Kenema. Eastern Polytechnic has now been elevated to Eastern Technical University (ETU), a new status that would see the introduction of a broader spectrum of courses that that would enhance the technical labour market in the country.
President Julius Maada Bio assisted by the institution’s academics, conducted the formal transformation rites, witnessed by students, Kenema residents and other dignitaries, at the institution’s campus on Saturday 23 October. 2021.
President Bio told the gathering about the importance his government attaches to education. He said the new university is to introduce courses that will develop human capital and help create a new kind of knowledge-based economy, and generate private sector jobs.
“Ours is a growing economy with great potential and only well-trained people can drive that development. No doubt, those expanded course offerings are of immense value for national development. You would recognise therefore my reason for establishing not one, not two, but three public technical universities in this country -- the Eastern Technical University; Milton Margai Technical University; and the Kono University of Science and Technology, respectively. These universities give expanded access to university education with a focus on innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship. This is growth in the right direction. This is what the new direction was always and is about,” President Bio stated.
He challenged ETU authorities not to just rely on government solely for funding, but to be innovative and explore opportunities. ”Plan for a mix of university fees, university operations, entrepreneurship and investments, advocacy, research, partnerships with institutions/agencies or the private sector and more. More importantly, make sure that the financial systems and control environment are always appropriate to assure solvency, financial stability, and accountability at this university. Above all, ensure that your governance framework is consistent with best practices. You must make certain that there is coherence and consistency across the university’s ordinances, rules, and regulations to ensure fairness and compliance. Let this also be the University court that develops relevant documentation on governance, strategic management, a predictable and consistent university calendar, and standing orders. Such clarity will enable the University Court to carry out its mandate with great distinction”, he pointed out
The President of the Senior Staff Association Joe Diawo later told Politico the progression of the institution was timely and important . He pointed out that the university will be successful, based on a number of factors including the restructuring of lecturers’ conditions of service, to reflect the present economy. He registered gratitude to President Bio for honouring his promise of a university to the people in the east of the country.
Marima Kamara, a Bachelor of Education third year student said she was thrilled over the transformation. She said people in that part of Sierra Leone would now be able to pursue higher education in their familiar locality, instead of going to other cities and towns, with all the accompanying financial and social problems.
‘’I see no need for me to snub the university in Kenema just to study in places such as Njala and Freetown for academic qualification, as it’s not the name of institution that determines you ,but how you make yourself as an individual”.
A parent that witnessed the ceremony, Joseph Ansumana said government has given them the opportunity to monitor their children going to the university, especially against cultism and other bad groups.
He said the learning facility in Kenema is now a blessing especially for the girls who will be closer to their parents, so they could be well looked after, and avoid encountering the numerous problems of learning, far away from home.
Copyright © Politico Online 25/10/21
