The government of Sierra Leone through, the Minister of Development and Economic Planning Dr. Francis Kai-Kai, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the European Public Law Organization (EPLO) at a ceremony that took place at the Le Plaza Hotel in Brussels, Belgium.

The purpose of the collaboration is with governments’ commitment towards Education and the Rule of Law, and to also promote education, research, training, and institution building in every aspect of public life where the need will be prioritized by the Government.

The MOU provides that in the field of Education, the EPLO shall assist the Republic of Sierra Leone in developing courses for the promotion of Excellence, especially through the European Law and Governance School (ELGS), and the International University School of the EPLO.

In that frame, the EPLO shall assist the Republic of Sierra Leone in creating a new generation of high level educated scholars with in-depth knowledge about the Laws and Governance of the European Union, which will help in the acquisition of the tools needed for the promotion of dialogue and closer relations with the European Union.

During the signing session, Professor Spyridon Flogaitis, Chief Executive of EPLO, said he is happy about the attention given to his institution by the government.

He commended President Bio for his practical emphasis on developing the educational sector. As an international organization of a high reputation, committed to the ideals of the United Nations where it has permanent observer status at the General Assembly, the Professor stated that they will support Sierra Leone in its bid for a permanent seat in the UN.

The Chief Executive commended the Ambassador of the Sierra Leone Embassy in Brussels for his long-term active interest in the project which has finally resulted in the signing of the MOU.

In his response, Dr. Francis Kai Kai underlined that education is a priority of the government and it is the Flagship agenda of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio whose vision is to ensure that every child is educated to the best of their aptitude.

He maintained that Education undoubtedly remains at the top of the agenda of the Government of Sierra Leone. Therefore, “we are elated that this partnership will give meaning to our agenda while putting a premium on education, research, and training for our people”.

The Minister added that with goodwill, and mutual commitment, Sierra Leone will continue to be dedicated to the implementation of the MOU, for the benefit of the people.

Ambassador Samuel Tamba Musa, in his remarks, said Sierra Leone is very much interested in the proposed ideas of education pointing out that human capital development is the top priority of the President.

The Ambassador spoke about the Foreign Service Academy which he said with the EPLO agreement, will help in enhancing learning, research, and teaching.

Part of the EPLO MOU states that the Parties commit themselves to engage in open, constructive, and fruitful cooperation in all possible fields of public life, with special attention to Education and Reforms for the Rule of Law.

Moreover, the Parties intend to promote a better understanding of the positive role of the Republic of Sierra Leone in the Region, in Africa, and the World, and its relations of the country with Europe.