The Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology, Sierra Leone, received a team of academics from the University of Oradea in Romania on the 29th of April, 2024.

According to the EBKUST Public Relations Officer, Alimamy Mamoud Larkoh, the visiting team was warmly received by Rev.d. Prof. Enoch Terlumun Iortyom, Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies, who was accompanied by Rev.d. Prof. Prince Sorie Conteh – Deputy Vice-Chancellor Magburaka Campus.

Dr. Maurice Baimba Kargbo, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of EBK University at Makeni Campus, who presently doubles as Acting Vice-Chancellor & Principal of the University welcomed the visiting team and assured them of a conducive working relationship.

It could be noted that the event is an Erasmus Mobility Exchange Program between the Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology (EBKUST), Sierra Leone, and the University of Oradea in Romania.

The Romania team was led by Prof. Iulian Dinca (PhD) from the Department of Geography, Tourism and Terretorial Planning, Faculty of Geography, Tourism and Sport, University of Oradea, and Rev’d.Prof Enoch Terlumun Iortyom (PhD) from the Department of Geography, Environment and Sustainability Studies/School of Postgraduate Studies, Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology, Sierra Leone.

The program, Larkoh said is aimed at promoting Inter-departmental cooperation, sustaining academic activities, and international research between the two universities.

“This partnership also aims to spark student’s curiosity and excitement about the world around them and encourage multidisciplinary approach to studies and research,” Larkoh stated.

The Romania team led by Prof. Dinca arrived Sierra Leone/EBKUST on Monday, April 29, 2024. The team visited several historical sites, the Katanta Hills in Bumbuna and beaches in Sierra Leone. They also interacted with the management of the university, Deans, and Heads of Departments across faculties.

It is expected that a Faculty of Geography,Environment,Tourism and Sustainability Studies (GETSS) would be established to ensure full implementation of the program and its sustainability to offer trainings in Geography, Environmental Studies, Tourism,Energy Studies, etc. at various levels.

In addition, a project proposal is being developed on ecotourism, and when funded, it is hoped that it would provide employment for host communities; increase their income, and improve the rural economy.