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The Parliamentary Committee on Technical and Higher Education has concluded a series of engagements with leading private universities in Sierra Leone as part of its oversight mandate to promote quality education and strengthen institutions contributing to national development.
The committee, chaired by Hon. Joseph Williams-Lamin, held discussions with Central University, Unimtech University, Unimark University, Limkokwing University of Creative Technology, and AMTA Medical College. The engagements focused on university governance, academic programmes, student welfare, institutional achievements, sector challenges, and future development plans.
Speaking during the meetings, Hon. Williams-Lamin said the engagements were aimed at strengthening collaboration and enhancing Parliament’s understanding of the role private universities play in advancing higher education in Sierra Leone.
He commended the institutions for expanding access to tertiary education, promoting innovation, and producing skilled graduates across key sectors.
Committee members also recognized the universities’ contributions in agriculture, health sciences, information technology, public administration, flexible learning, academic integrity, creative technology, and health-sector training.
University management highlighted progress in student enrolment, governance systems, academic expansion, research partnerships, and online learning initiatives. They also outlined plans to introduce new programmes in public health, agroecology, solid waste management, aviation studies, clinical sciences, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
However, the institutions raised several challenges affecting their operations, including inadequate infrastructure, limited student accommodation, high energy costs, insufficient campus space, limited government support, and the need for additional land for expansion.
In response, committee members encouraged the universities to strengthen international partnerships, diversify revenue streams, expand research and innovation, invest in staff development, and build stronger alumni networks.
The committee further recommended that the institutions prepare comprehensive project proposals to attract donor support for infrastructure development, renewable energy, student accommodation, and campus expansion.
The engagements ended with a renewed commitment from both Parliament and the universities to work collaboratively towards strengthening higher education and supporting national development. The committee also announced plans to conduct field visits to gain firsthand insight into the institutions’ operations and challenges.
