Young Lady Dies One Week After Graduating From University of Sierra Leone

A recent graduate of the University of Sierra Leone (USL), identified as Zainab, has died just one week after receiving her degree.

Reports indicate that Zainab passed away on Tuesday, December 10, following a brief illness. Her death comes only days after she participated in the university’s 2025 congregation ceremonies held earlier this month.

Friends and family took to social media to express their shock and grief. “Just last week, we were celebrating your graduation. Today, we mourn your passing,” wrote Lamin Mansaray in a public tribute.

Another mourner, Lamin Teeboye Kargbo, noted the heartbreaking contrast of posting a congratulatory message for her Bachelor’s degree last week and a condolence message today.

Zainab was among thousands of students who were honored during the university’s recent graduation events.

According to the Vice Chancellor and Principal of the University of Sierra Leone, Prof. Aiah Lebbie, a total of 5,301 students graduated during the two-day ceremony held on December 3 and 4, 2025.