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The Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE), in partnership with the European Union (EU), has hosted an Erasmus+ information session for students at the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM) in Freetown, aimed at increasing awareness and participation in international education and mobility programmes.
Speaking at the event, Sia Fasuluku, Deputy Chief Technical and Higher Education Officer at MTHE and National Focal Point for Erasmus+, encouraged Sierra Leonean students and institutions to actively pursue opportunities under the Erasmus+ programme.
She outlined key components available to Sierra Leone, including International Credit Mobility, Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters, Capacity Building in Higher Education, Capacity Building in Vocational Education and Training (CB-VET), Youth Capacity Building, and Virtual Exchange.
Fasuluku described the Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters as a flagship programme that offers fully funded scholarships for graduates to study in at least two European countries. She said the scholarship covers tuition, travel costs and provides a monthly stipend. She further noted that Erasmus+ also supports institutional development through curriculum reform, research strengthening and quality assurance systems.
Dr. Wafa Msallem, Regional Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa under the Erasmus+ programme, called on vocational institutions to take advantage of the CB-VET funding window. According to her, the initiative supports modernization and international cooperation in technical and vocational education.
Other speakers shared practical insights and examples of ongoing projects. Papa Njai, Lecturer and Coordinator of Short Courses at the Milton Margai Technical University, emphasized the importance of technical and entrepreneurial skills in national development. He highlighted a €700,000 initiative focused on strengthening entrepreneurship training for faculty and students.
Representatives from youth and civil society organisations also presented Erasmus+-funded projects, including cross-border peacebuilding and climate action initiatives involving African and European partners. They underscored the need for strong partnerships, clearly defined impact goals and alignment with European Union priorities such as digital transformation, inclusion and sustainability.
Former and current beneficiaries of the programme shared their experiences during the session. Alhaji Kebbe, who is currently pursuing an international agro-food Master’s degree in Europe, spoke about the academic, professional and cultural exposure gained through the programme.
Mohamed Samu, an Erasmus scholar, similarly highlighted the benefits of participation and encouraged students to maintain strong academic records, gain relevant experience and prepare competitive applications.
The President of IPAM’s Student Union Government, Denzu Duramany Lakkoh, welcomed the delegation and urged students to make full use of the opportunities presented.
The information session forms part of ongoing efforts by MTHE and the European Union to expand awareness and increase Sierra Leone’s participation in global education and mobility programmes under Erasmus+.
