By Yusufu S. Bangura
MTHE Ministers, Experts from India pose for photo
The Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE) has taken a bold step toward modernizing education in Sierra Leone with the launch of a state-of-the-art digital skills training platform.
The platform will allow students to register and apply for various courses online, aims to address educational gaps and improve access to learning opportunities nationwide.
The official launch took place during an orientation ceremony on Monday, November 18, 2024, at the Multi-Purpose Hall of Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone.
The digital platform is designed to equip learners with in-demand skills, enhancing their employability in an increasingly technology-driven world. It represents a partnership between the Government of Sierra Leone and India’s National Skills Development Council.
Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Haja Ramatulai Wurie, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the transformative potential of the initiative.
“This digital ecosystem will bridge the gap between education, employability, and innovation. It is designed not just for today but for tomorrow’s employment opportunities,” she said.
She added that the platform aligns with the Government of Sierra Leone’s “Big Five Game Changers” initiative, focusing on modernizing sectors and promoting sustainable development.
The platform will also support curriculum modernization, capacity building, and stronger collaboration with employers to ensure students gain relevant, market-ready skills.
Students present at the event
Minister of Youth Affairs, Mohamed Bangura, urged students to take full advantage of the platform and embrace the digital world.
“You don’t have to rely on connections to get employment. All you need is the right skills,” he stated, encouraging self-reliance and innovation among young learners.
Two experts from India’s National Skills Development Council attended the event, offering insights into the platform’s capabilities and the broader digital landscape in Sierra Leone.
In their presentations, they highlighted the platform’s industry-aligned features, which aim to prepare students for the job market through targeted courses. They emphasized the importance of digital literacy and described the platform as a bridge between education and employment.
Representing the Indian High Commissioner, Neeraj Kumar Saini outlined scholarship opportunities for Sierra Leonean students interested in pursuing further studies in India. He praised the partnership between the two nations, reaffirming India’s commitment to enhancing skills development in Sierra Leone.
The launch of the digital training platform marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s efforts to modernize education and empower youth. By providing accessible and effective learning opportunities, the government and its partners are ensuring that students are equipped to succeed in the global workforce.
This initiative not only prepares young people for employment but also fosters innovation and self-reliance, positioning Sierra Leone as a leader in digital education reform in Africa.
