The Parliament of Sierra Leone, led by the Deputy Clerk and Director General, convened on January 22, 2024, to evaluate the 2024 Parliamentary Learning and Sharing (PLS) Series.

During the event at Committee Room One, planners and facilitators of the bi-weekly initiative were awarded for their contributions to staff development.

The PLS Series, launched on May 16, 2024, under the guidance of the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, and the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, is designed to foster a culture of continuous learning within Parliament. The initiative is managed by the Centre for Strategy & Parliamentary Studies (CSPS) in collaboration with various parliamentary departments.

An evaluation report presented by Parliament’s Monitoring, Evaluation, and Research Units lauded the program’s impact. It highlighted improvements in staff knowledge, professional growth, and interdepartmental collaboration, while commending the facilitators’ expertise.

Recommendations for 2025 include:

  1. Promoting junior staff involvement in presentations.
  2. Enhancing session logistics, including time management and ventilation.
  3. Increasing financial support for the initiative.

Deputy Clerk Mr. Gilbert N’habay, representing Clerk of Parliament Hon. Paran Umar Tarawally, emphasized the strategic importance of the PLS. “This program enhances our staff’s capabilities and aligns with our mission for a more effective Parliament,” he stated, calling for a standing ovation for the organizers.

Director-General of Parliament praised the PLS as both a learning and networking platform, acknowledging the team’s exceptional efforts in organizing the series.

The event concluded with awards recognizing the dedication and expertise of the PLS organizers and 12 facilitators who contributed to the 2024 sessions. Special commendations were given to the Speaker and Deputy Speaker for their commitment to professional development.

Parliament unveiled plans for new staff-focused projects in 2025, including wellness programs, beautification initiatives, and international capacity-building exchanges.