The Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has achieved a significant milestone by completing a certification program to upskill individuals in building and construction. The ceremony, a testament to the collective efforts of the Ministry and the United Nations Development Program in Sierra Leone, occurred on September 14, 2024, at the Eastern Technical University in Kenema, marking a significant milestone in the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to promote technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in Sierra Leone.

At the event, Deputy Minister of Technical and Higher Education Sarjoh Aziz Kamara underscored the importance of TVET as a cornerstone for sustainable development in Sierra Leone. He highlighted that this initiative is a key part of President Julius Maada Bio’s ‘Big Five Game Changers,’ focusing on transforming the TVET sector to enhance employability and self-reliance. Through UNDP’s support, the upskilling
program aims to increase the competencies of participants in the building and construction sector, promoting self-employment and contributing to the country’s long-term development goals.

“TVET is central to our vision for a transformed Sierra Leone, and we are committed to making it relevant to the evolving needs of the economy and labour market,” Kamara stated. He emphasized that the government, under the leadership of President Bio, has worked over the past six years to change the perception of TVET, making it more attractive to students and ensuring that the training provided directly responds to industry demands.

Kamara highlighted the government’s strategic plan to establish community colleges in all districts, tailored to local growth sectors such as agriculture, mining, construction, and ICT. These colleges will be affiliated with universities, ensuring that TVET programs are both comprehensive and accessible to young people across the country.

Looking ahead, the Deputy Minister called for more sig
nificant support from development partners to finance the implementation of TVET policies. He outlined plans to establish five regional TVET Centers of Excellence equipped with modern infrastructure to consolidate gains in technical education further and strengthen the country’s industrialization efforts.

Source: Sierra Leone News Agency