Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, the Vice President of Sierra Leone, launched the National Employment Entrepreneurship Fair 2023 with a compelling message to the youth and stakeholders present. Emphasizing the paramount importance of social intelligence, he articulated that this quality is the linchpin for both securing and sustaining employment in the contemporary workspace.

He emphasized, “If you lack social intelligence nobody will give you a job, you can be the best IT person but if you don’t know how to respect people and build relationships and comport yourself in a workspace you will not get a job, so you can have your diploma but you need to have that social intelligence which is deep rooted in our social values in the society to understand how to respect each other.”

Dr. Jalloh underscored that social intelligence is intricately woven with respect and the core values of society. He ardently advised all attendees to actively cultivate this vital attribute, asserting that the ability to build and maintain positive relationships in the workplace is as crucial as technical proficiency. He passionately stated that, despite possessing exemplary skills or academic achievements, lacking social intelligence could be a significant impediment to landing a job.

The Vice President’s testimony echoed the evolving landscape of employment dynamics, shifting beyond traditional metrics of success. He urged the audience to understand that the modern workplace places a premium on collaboration, effective communication, and interpersonal skills. Dr. Jalloh’s words carried weight as he encouraged the gathering to embrace the principles of social intelligence for a more inclusive and productive work environment.

As the National Employment Entrepreneurship Fair unfolds, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s insightful counsel serves as a guiding beacon for the aspiring workforce of Sierra Leone, steering them toward a future where not just technical prowess but also social acumen plays a pivotal role in shaping successful careers.