By Francis H. Murray
President Julius Maada Bio has reiterated his intention of relinquishing his position as the Chancellor of the University of Sierra Leone. He said he would do so once the ongoing review of the 2005 University Acts is completed.
The President said his decision to remove the presidency from the direct administration of universities is in line with his desire to depoliticize educational institutions, which he said is in the best interest of the nation.
“We think that you should have academic freedom in the management of academic institutions because you have spent your whole life in it and you know how to manage it,” President Bio said at a meeting with representatives of the University of Sierra Leone (USL) at State House on Tuesday.
“I did say I will depoliticize education in the interest of the nation. I want to take politics out of the university and I will step down as Chancellor of the University as soon as the necessary amendments are made,” he added.
The meeting with the academics was organized by the President to discuss possible ways to reclaim the country’s lost educational glory, according to a statement from the presidency.
“I am engaging you, like I am doing with other sectors, and it is important to know what your own thoughts and contributions are. Going forward in terms of the educational process, I have prioritized Human Capital Development and you play an important role to achieve that,” Bio said.
‘‘It is incumbent on us all to ensure that our kids get the relevant education that will empower them to live a better life and develop our country,” he added.
President Bio emphasized on the need for quality education and the role lecturers and university authorities should offer in their institutions, noting that this will foster academic competitiveness.
Chief Minister, Professor David John Francis, lauded the President’s move and encouraged the university authorities to stand up to the challenges they face and be a part of the development process.
The 2005 University Act of Sierra Leone accords the president of Sierra Leone honorary academic doctoral degree and make him the chancellor of the university.
Critics say the provision in the Act leaves the university open to political interference.
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