Controversial opposition figure, Dr. Sylvia Blyden, has voiced apprehension regarding President Julius Maada Bio’s recent actions concerning the partnership between the University of Kono and a Chinese university.

The concern arises following President Bio’s visit to the Republic of China alongside the Minister of Technical and Higher Education to finalize a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Chinese university on behalf of the Kono University. Notably, the President’s delegation excluded the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor of Kono University.

Dr. Blyden took to social media to express her dismay, questioning President Bio’s decision. In her post, she wrote: “SMH. Despite the much-trumpeted 2021 Universities Act, the enacted ‘university autonomy’ seems to be non-existent under H.E. Maada Bio, so he left behind the Kono University Chancellor & Vice-Chancellor and took his Higher Education Minister to China to sign an MOU with a Chinese University on behalf of Kono University. What a ‘legacy,’ Mr. President! Who are your advisers, Your Excellency, sir?”

The move has ignited debate and raised questions about the autonomy of universities under President Bio’s administration, prompting scrutiny of his decision-making process.