The Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE) has held discussions with Mr. Mustapha Njie of TAF Africa Global to explore private sector support in addressing student accommodation challenges across Sierra Leone.

The meeting forms part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to respond to the growing demand for student housing as access to tertiary education continues to expand nationwide.

At the engagement, the Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, emphasized the urgent need to ensure that student accommodation keeps pace with increasing enrolment in higher education institutions.

She noted that safe and affordable housing remains critical to promoting equity, improving student retention, and enhancing academic performance.

“As we expand access to tertiary education in Sierra Leone, we must ensure that student housing keeps pace with enrolment growth,” the Minister said, adding that accommodation is fundamental to students’ academic success.

Dr. Wurie also highlighted the role of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in delivering sustainable solutions, stressing that government welcomes initiatives that encourage private sector investment in purpose-built, environmentally friendly, and climate-resilient student housing.

“This is a space where public-private partnerships can deliver real impact,” she stated.

She further assured stakeholders of the Ministry’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for investment and innovation in the sector, expressing optimism for continued collaboration to ensure that no student is disadvantaged due to accommodation constraints.