Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has emphasized the importance of national unity, education, and healthcare in promoting Sierra Leone’s development. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of postgraduate colleges for administration and pedagogy at the USL Teaching Hospitals Complex in Lakka, he emphasised the government’s commitment to improving higher education and specialised medical training.
Dr. Jalloh noted that the project reflects the administration’s vision for a prosperous Sierra Leone, where education serves as a catalyst for economic growth and social transformation. He stressed that the initiative will not only enhance learning opportunities for students but also stimulate local economic development by creating jobs and supporting businesses.
“The future of Sierra Leone lies in the hands of our youth, and this project embodies our vision for a brighter tomorrow,” the Vice President said. “Together, we will build an educated, empowered, and prosperous Sierra Leone.”
Strengthening Healthcare and Higher Education
Minister of Health Dr. Austin Demby highlighted the collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education to strengthen Sierra Leone’s healthcare system. He reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare services through improved infrastructure, staffing, and medical supply chains.
Dr. Demby acknowledged recent achievements, including the construction of new hospitals and the expansion of training programs for specialists. He emphasised that strategic partnerships, both local and international, will be crucial in ensuring a high-quality healthcare system that meets the needs of all citizens.
Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to enhancing specialised medical training. She highlighted the role of partnerships with the Ministry of Health and institutions such as Jalah University in elevating healthcare education to international standards.
“This facility symbolises our shared vision of equipping future medical professionals with the skills needed to safeguard the health of our citizens,” she stated.
Advancing Medical Training
Dr. Sahr Moses Gevao, Chairman of the Council, expressed appreciation for the government’s sustained efforts in advancing medical education. He lauded the impact of the College of Health Specialties Foundation Fellows, launched in 2021, which has been instrumental in strengthening medical training in Sierra Leone. He also commended the Ministry of Health for ensuring efficient payroll systems and the successful induction of 122 residents specialising in complex medical fields.
“The launch of this initiative is a game-changer for Sierra Leone’s healthcare sector,” Dr. Gevao said. The new building will offer state-of-the-art facilities for telemedicine, research, and advanced training for our healthcare professionals.
A Call for National Unity
As the ceremony concluded, Vice President Jalloh called on all Sierra Leoneans to unite in the pursuit of a better future through education and collaboration. He reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering a resilient healthcare system and an inclusive higher education sector that will serve as the foundation for national growth and transformation.
“This project symbolises our dedication to the next generation,” he said. “Together, we will build an educated, empowered, and prosperous Sierra Leone.”