The Minister of Communication Technology and Innovation (MoCT), Salima Bah, reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to advancing technology and innovation as cornerstones of Sierra Leone’s development.

Bah made this statement while speaking at the STEM Club Presentation event, organized by the alumni of Sierra Leone Grammar School (SLGS) and Annie Walsh Memorial School (AWMS).”

The event served as a testament to the nation’s growing emphasis on technological education and innovation.

In her keynote address, Madam Bah passionately reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to advancing technology and innovation as cornerstones for Sierra Leone’s development.

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The Minister’s speech resonated deeply with the audience, as she drew attention to the success of the Sierra Leone Innovates Tech Summit held in June 2024. This summit was a landmark event that brought together the country’s most promising young innovators, who presented solutions that are not only innovative but also aligned with the government’s vision for a digitally empowered Sierra Leone. The summit, which featured cutting-edge technological solutions, highlighted the potential of Sierra Leonean youth to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s growth.

Bah underscored that technology is not just a sectoral focus but a crucial component of President Bio’s “Big Five” agenda. This agenda, which prioritizes technology alongside other key sectors, is essential for the country’s economic growth and its ability to compete on the global stage. By making technology a focal point, the government aims to build a robust digital infrastructure that will drive innovation, create jobs, and enhance the overall quality of life for Sierra Leoneans.

She also emphasized on the importance of collaboration between the government, the private sector, and educational institutions. She praised the efforts of program organizers and private sector partners who have been instrumental in creating platforms for young people to develop their technological skills. Madam Bah acknowledged that the journey towards technological advancement cannot be undertaken by the government alone. It requires the concerted efforts of all stakeholders to create an ecosystem that supports innovation and encourages young people to pursue careers in technology.

One of the key highlights of the event was the Minister’s visit to the training site, where she observed first-hand the skills being developed by pupils in various technological fields. These pupils are being trained in coding, robotics, entrepreneurship, and graphic design, among other areas. The training programs are designed to equip students with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy. Minister Bah expressed her admiration for the dedication and creativity of the students, noting that their work is a clear indication of the bright future that lies ahead for Sierra Leone.

The event also provided an opportunity for the Minister to engage with educators and industry professionals who are playing a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of tech leaders. She commended their efforts in mentoring and guiding students, stressing that their role is crucial in ensuring that Sierra Leone remains competitive in the global technology landscape. The Minister called on all stakeholders to continue their support for youth-driven initiatives, which are critical to ensuring Sierra Leone’s global competitiveness and technological sustainability.

In her closing remarks, Minister Bah reiterated the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for innovation to thrive. She highlighted the Ministry of Communication Technology and Innovation’s role in spearheading efforts to build a digitally empowered society. The Ministry, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, is focused on fostering a well-informed and engaged citizenry that is equipped to participate in the digital economy.

The STEM Club Presentation event served as a reminder of the significant strides Sierra Leone has made in the field of technology and innovation. It also highlighted the challenges that lie ahead, particularly in ensuring that all Sierra Leoneans have access to the tools and resources needed to participate in the digital economy. However, with the continued support of the government, the private sector, and educational institutions, there is no doubt that Sierra Leone is on the path to becoming a leader in technology and innovation in the region.

As the event concluded, it was clear that the future of technology and innovation in Sierra Leone is bright. The commitment of the government, the enthusiasm of the students, and the support of all stakeholders are driving forces that will propel the nation towards a prosperous and technologically advanced future. The STEM Club Presentation was not just an event, but a celebration of the potential and promise of Sierra Leone’s youth, and a reaffirmation of the government’s dedication to harnessing that potential for the greater good of the nation.