By Nasratu Kargbo
Fourah Bay College (FBC) Students Union (SU) President, Adama Sillah has been formally inaugurated as the institution’s first female to hold the position. The event held in the multipurpose hall of the college was graced by mostly representatives of Women Organisations. CEO of Advocacy Movement Network (AMNet) Hawa Samai said the event was unique and believed it will set the pace and prepare the minds of girls to speak out fiercely.
Madam Samai said before now, women were considered unfit to take up leadership positions but said they have demonstrated their capability to steer the affairs of state.
President and founder of 50/50 Group, Nemata Majeks- Walker in her statement noted that the more women are involved in politics, the better it becomes. She praised the SU President for standing firm even when so many awful comments were made against her.
FBC Deputy Registrar, Vivian Mc’Ewen stated history has shown that women make outstanding leaders, and made references to the likes of Liberia’s Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Margaret Thatcher of the UK and Germany’s Angela Merkel who saw their countries through difficult times.
He assured Sillah of the administration’s support in running the affairs of FBC and appealed to all students to support her as she is president for all, and not just for those that elected her.
Former Adviser to the Former President on Gender issues Naasu Fofanah advised Miss Sillah to be professional in the execution of her duties and that she should listen to what critics say in order to succeed, warning her not to only focus on her supporters.
Madam Fofanah encouraged her to take responsibility of her leadership and lead with dignity, integrity, passion and resilience. She said she would love to see her include Fatmata Binta Jalloh her main challenger in the SU election, in her cabinet.
Deputy Vice Chancellor of the Institute of Public Administration and Management, Professor Mariam Conteh Morgan whilst encouraging the students leader that it was time to govern, she explained the underrepresentation of women in certain establishments with FBC no exception.
She added that the president should be an Alpha female among equals and advised her to choose her team wisely, adding that she should appoint competent people who will work with her to succeed and not just because they supported her.
Making his handing over speech, former SU President, Augustine Bona said his administration inherited dilapidated hostels, limited toilet facilities, outdated library, inadequate classrooms and a lot more. He however said there had been massive improvements since then.
After she was sworn- in, Miss Sillah made her inaugural speech, assuring students that her administration will map out strategies to tackle the problems of missing grades and late publication of grades, amongst many other issues.
She called for unity, saying the university would only be a better place if all clubs and camps unite. She then made an appeal to government, the private sector and alumni to support the institution.
Copyright © Politico Online (13/08/21)
