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Former Minister and renowned public figure, Dr. Sylvia Olayinka Blyden, will serve as Distinguished Speaker at the inauguration and handing-over ceremony of the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM) Students’ Union Government, an event aimed at celebrating student democracy and leadership transition.
Dr. Blyden’s participation underscores her long-standing commitment to student unionism and youth leadership development in Sierra Leone. A trailblazer in student politics, she made history as the first woman in Sierra Leone to defeat male contenders and emerge as an elected President of a university Students’ Union Government, a milestone widely regarded as a turning point in student leadership.
Speaking ahead of the event, Dr. Blyden described her role at the ceremony as both symbolic and deeply personal, noting that student unionism played a crucial role in shaping her leadership journey. She emphasized that students’ representative bodies remain vital platforms for nurturing future national leaders.
“It is always a big pleasure to associate with student unionism,” Dr. Blyden said, adding that her experience as a student leader remains one of the most defining chapters of her public life. She stressed that empowering young people in leadership spaces is essential for promoting democracy, accountability, and civic participation.
The IPAM inauguration ceremony is expected to attract university administrators, student leaders, civil society representatives, and invited guests, and will formally usher in a new Students’ Union leadership. The event will highlight the values of continuity, service, and responsible governance within the academic community.
Students and observers have welcomed Dr. Blyden’s selection as Distinguished Speaker, describing her presence as inspirational—particularly for young women aspiring to leadership roles within academic institutions and public life. Her historic achievement in student politics continues to be cited as evidence that competence and vision can overcome entrenched gender barriers.
Over the years, Dr. Blyden has remained vocal on issues affecting youth empowerment, education, and governance. Her engagement with IPAM students is expected to stimulate dialogue on leadership, resilience, and the role of students in national development.
As the newly elected Students’ Union Government prepares to assume office, stakeholders say the ceremony provides an opportunity not only to celebrate student democracy, but also to reflect on the enduring influence of student movements in shaping Sierra Leone’s political and social landscape.
