Chief Minister Dr. David Sengeh recently met with leaders from the Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute (SLARI) to discuss the way forward for the SLARI Act 2023 and how to improve the working conditions for researchers.
At the meeting in State House, Dr. Sengeh, Agriculture Minister Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, and SLARI’s Acting Director-General Dr. Conteh talked openly about the challenges faced by the institute. Dr. Conteh thanked the Chief Minister for his time and support and raised key issues affecting staff, particularly the need for a clear career progression system that aligns with standards in Sierra Leone’s universities.
Dr. Conteh stressed that creating such a system is important for keeping talented researchers at SLARI, which is vital for driving the innovation needed to boost food security in Sierra Leone.
The meeting marked a step forward in the government’s efforts to strengthen agricultural research and address the concerns of SLARI staff.