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The Chief Executive Officer of the National Public Procurement Authority (NPPA), Mr Fodie J. Konneh, has urged students to uphold integrity, professionalism, and accountability as they prepare for careers in public procurement.
Mr Konneh made this call while delivering a keynote address at a public lecture organised by the School of Public Administration at the University of Management and Technology (UNIMTECH). The lecture focused on improving compliance with the Public Procurement Act through digital systems.
In his speech, Mr Konneh explained that public procurement is very important for national development. He said hospitals, schools, roads, and water projects all depend on a strong procurement system. He added that procurement is not just about buying goods, but about using public money wisely to improve people’s lives.
He also highlighted the importance of the Public Procurement Act, 2016, which guides how government institutions buy goods and services. According to him, the law promotes transparency, fairness, accountability, and value for money, and must be followed by all procurement professionals.
Mr Konneh further encouraged students to develop digital skills, noting that the Electronic Government Procurement (e-GP) system will make procurement more transparent, faster, and easier to manage.
The Chairman of the programme, Mr Benjamin Kabba Kamara, said the lecture was organised to prepare students to become competent professionals who can contribute to national development. He stressed that procurement plays an important role in both the public and private sectors.
Delivering the welcome address, the Dean of the School of Public Administration at the University of Management and Technology (UNIMTECH), Ms Ozainatu Musa Koroma, described the lecture as timely and encouraged students to learn how technology is improving transparency and efficiency in procurement.
Also speaking at the event, Mr Barbar Massaquoi, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Management and Technology and Director at NPPA, introduced the keynote speaker and highlighted Mr Konneh’s professional experience and contributions to procurement reforms.
The lecture brought together lecturers, students, procurement professionals, and other stakeholders to discuss ways of improving public procurement systems in Sierra Leone.
Mr Konneh concluded by reminding students that they are future leaders and must always act with honesty and professionalism in managing public resources.
