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The Deputy Vice Chancellor of Fourah Bay College (FBC), University of Sierra Leone, Professor Andrew Baio, has pledged a permanent solution to the college’s chronic water shortage following an inspection of the Gloucester Dam restoration project on February 9, 2026.
Since assuming office in October 2025, Professor Baio identified ensuring a reliable water supply as a top priority. During his initial assessment, he uncovered years of severe neglect at the dam, including heavy siltation, accumulated solid waste, encroachment by vegetable gardens, and unauthorized structures nearby.
“This was a situation of total neglect over the years,” Professor Baio remarked.
In response, FBC quickly mobilized a cleanup team to rehabilitate the dam. Significant progress has been made, with large volumes of mud and waste cleared from the site. Previously, the deteriorated state of the dam had left staff quarters, student hostels, and administrative offices facing acute water shortages. Many residents were forced to rely on costly water vendors, creating financial and public health challenges across the campus.
Determined to provide a lasting solution, Professor Baio is now working closely with the FBC Estate Department to implement long-term infrastructural upgrades. Central to the plan is raising the dam walls to significantly increase water storage capacity. Engineers have already been engaged to provide technical guidance.
Professor Baio said the college “intends to increase the height of the dam walls to significantly boost its storage capacity.”
The Gloucester Dam restoration represents a major step toward improving living and learning conditions at Fourah Bay College. The project underscores FBC’s commitment to enhanced infrastructure and better welfare for both staff and students.
This report is based on information provided by Dr. Tonya Musa, Director of Communication and International Relations, University of Sierra Leone.
Source: https://truthmedia.sl/fourah-bay-college-dvc-inspects-gloucester-dam-pledges-lasting-water-solution/
