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The Deputy Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Sarjoh Aziz-Kamara, has called for deeper collaboration between universities, industry, and development partners to drive innovation, critical thinking, and national development in Sierra Leone.
He made the remarks at the National Pitching and Trade Fair 2026 held at the Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology (EBKUST), speaking on the theme: “Fostering Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Collaboration among Academia, Industry and Development Partners.”
He noted that universities globally are no longer limited to teaching and examinations, but are increasingly becoming centres of innovation, entrepreneurship, and practical problem-solving. He said EBKUST was reflecting this shift by bringing together academia, industry players, entrepreneurs, and development partners in one space.
“When these sectors work together, the results can be transformative,” he said, adding that such partnerships can turn research into business solutions and ideas into enterprises that contribute to national growth.
The Deputy Minister also stressed the role of innovation and entrepreneurship in addressing youth unemployment and strengthening Sierra Leone’s economic future. He said the country’s development ambitions will depend largely on how effectively it harnesses its young population.
He acknowledged challenges facing young people, including limited opportunities and access to finance, but emphasised that education must go beyond certification to deliver skills, productivity, and employability.
He also encouraged private sector actors to invest more in student talent through internships, mentorship, and collaboration in curriculum development, describing such engagement as a long-term investment in the country’s workforce and economy.
In his concluding remarks, Aziz-Kamara commended EBKUST leadership for the initiative and expressed hope that the event would produce lasting partnerships, viable enterprises, and practical solutions to national challenges.
