Fourah Bay College (FBC), the oldest higher education institution in sub-Saharan Africa, marked its 198th anniversary with a grand celebration attended by dignitaries, academic staff, and students. Established on February 18, 1827, FBC has remained a beacon of hope and a citadel of learning, shaping generations of scholars across Africa.

The event, held at the college’s historic campus, was graced by the Minister and Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Sierra Leone, senior lecturers, Heads of Departments, Deans, and students. A key highlight of the occasion was the flag-raising ceremony and the send-off program for Professors Jonas Redwood-Sawyerr and Joe A. D. Alie, who have made significant contributions to the university.

During the celebration, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC) Professor Kelleh Gbawuru Mansaray delivered an inspiring speech, reflecting on the college’s achievements and ongoing efforts to improve learning conditions. He emphasized FBC’s commitment to restoring essential facilities to enhance the academic environment, particularly addressing the water crisis that has long challenged the college. “We are making strides in restoring the basic facilities needed to enhance the learning environment. Water crisis, which has been a challenge of the college, is being gradually addressed by the innovative idea of drilling boreholes at strategic locations on campus,” he stated.

Professor Mansaray also highlighted the technological advancements at FBC, particularly the Starlink internet connectivity project, sponsored by the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education. “We are on the verge of having the entire campus under full internet coverage! This will definitely enhance learning, particularly in research using virtual resources and the fast-growing tools of artificial intelligence.”

Related News

FBC students and faculty recently demonstrated their technological capabilities during the National Education Week in Makeni, where they showcased innovations in artificial intelligence and digital learning methodologies. The DVC praised their efforts, saying, “Even with our current limited resources, our students and faculty were able to showcase the inroads we are making on the adaptation of technology and incorporation of artificial intelligence in our learning methodologies.”

Looking ahead, the college is set to inaugurate several new science and technology facilities that will significantly boost research and learning. On February 19, FBC will officially open the European Union-funded newly rehabilitated, refurbished, and re-equipped chemistry laboratories, marking a turnaround in science education in Sierra Leone. “Students will be exposed to state-of-the-art lab equipment and will be able to perform practical work that matches science students anywhere in the world,” Professor Mansaray noted.

Additionally, a World Bank-funded two-story building with sophisticated soil and materials testing laboratories will be launched in the coming weeks. The university is also advancing plans to establish a fabrication lab under the UNDP-supported UNIPOD project, aimed at transforming innovative ideas into serviceable and commercialized products through industry partnerships.

In a heartfelt tribute to retiring Professors Joe A. D. Alie and Jonas A. S. Redwood-Sawyerr, Professor Mansaray expressed gratitude for their remarkable contributions to FBC and academia. “We couldn’t think of a more befitting way to honor their service than doing so on the occasion of the college’s flag-raising ceremony. We salute both the flag and the indelible marks they have left on FBC.”

The Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Sierra Leone, Professor Lebbie, reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the development of Fourah Bay College (FBC). He pledged that in the coming months, key infrastructure projects will be prioritized, including the renovation of Mary Kingsley and the History Building, with additional renovations to follow before next year.

Professor Lebbie also challenged lecturers and students to embrace innovation and actively contribute to the global academic landscape. “We must rise to the challenge of academic development and ensure that FBC remains a center of excellence,” he stated.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Dr. Wurie, emphasized that Fourah Bay College belongs to everyone and urged all stakeholders to support its continued growth. He encouraged the academic community to uphold the institution’s legacy by contributing to its progress and ensuring that future generations benefit from a world-class education.

The official launch of the Bicentenary Logo of Fourah Bay College also took place during the event, setting the stage for the institution’s 200th-anniversary celebration in 2027.

As Fourah Bay College approaches two centuries of academic excellence, the institution remains steadfast in its mission to advance knowledge, research, and innovation in Sierra Leone and beyond.