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The Government Technical Institute (GTI) in Kailahun district has incorporated distance Teacher’s Education into its program.
This move, announced by Registrar Sia M. Sandi, aims to fulfill the government’s inclusive education policy by bringing quality teacher training closer to the doorsteps of communities in the region.
Established in 2019 by President Julius Maada Bio, GTI Kailahun initially focused on equipping students with valuable technical skills in fields like plumbing, carpentry, solar technology, agriculture, and computer studies. The institute has achieved impressive milestones, gaining accreditation from the National Council of Technical, Vocational and other Academic Awards (NCTVA) and registering with the Tertiary Education Commission. Notably, many graduates have secured employment after their studies, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness.
The decision to incorporate distance Teacher’s Education Programs in its operations reflects Government’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to education across the country. With two centers operational, one in Koindu and another in Kailahun town, GTI is positioned to serve geographically remote communities often overlooked by traditional teacher training institutions.
“We have taken education to the doorsteps of the people,” emphasized Registrar Sandi. This accessibility, coupled with the institute’s affordable tuition fees, makes it a highly attractive option for aspiring teachers in the region.
However, the institute faces challenges. Lack of adequate funding hinders further development, while negative societal perceptions towards technical training can deter enrollment. Registrar Sandi urged the government to provide necessary resources to ensure the college’s continued success in fulfilling its crucial role within the community.
GTI Kailahun has immensely contributed to the Human Capital Development Agenda of President Bio since its establishment and operationalization in 2019 by His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio.
Thousands of youths, women, farmers, vulnerable people, persons with disability and entrepreneurs have accessed quality skills training in course areas such as Agro processing, Solar Technology, Electrical Engineering, Welding (Metal & Aluminum), Masonry, Carpentry, Plumbing, Catering, Hospitality, Cosmetology among others funded by government, World Bank, GIZ and other NGOs over the last four years.
GTI Kailahun is determined to do more with continued support from the government, development partners, financial institutions, and donors to provide quality, affordable, accessible and improved skills training as well as advanced teacher training courses that will help in the economic growth and the development of the country.
GTI- Kailahun didn’t transform into a teacher training college as that is not the purpose for its establishment. GTI-Kailahun is focused on the aims and objective of the government of Sierra Leone particularly those for which it’s established and nothing has ever made it divert the establishment objective.
GTI -Kailahun added teacher Education courses such as Higher Teacher Certificate (Primary and Secondary)and Teacher Certificate. This program is aimed at providing a working solution to those chiefdoms that are far from the bigger towns where tertiary education is available.
To ensure that GTI doesn’t tamper with its establishment objectives, the said teacher training programs are run during holidays period when the normal TVET programs are closed.
In conclusion, it’s but apt if not mandatory for this publication to be retrieved as it’s not from GTI. GTI -Kailahun hasn’t transform into a teacher training college.