By Forum staff writer
President Dr Julius Maada Bio has officially launched the Joint Education Program at Freetown Technical College, formerly known as Freetown Teachers College, in a move aimed at strengthening technical and vocational education in Sierra Leone.
According to a statement from State House, the Joint Education Program is designed to equip young people with practical and industry relevant skills that will prepare them for employment, entrepreneurship, and national development. The initiative forms part of the government’s broader human capital development agenda, which places education and skills training at the centre of economic growth.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, President Bio said the transformation of technical and vocational education is critical to reducing youth unemployment and building a skilled workforce capable of driving the country forward. He stressed that education must go beyond theory and focus on hands on learning that responds to the needs of the labour market.
The president noted that many young people leave school without the skills required to secure decent jobs. He said the Joint Education Program is intended to bridge that gap by linking education with practical training, innovation, and productivity. According to him, the program will help young people become job creators rather than job seekers.
President Bio also highlighted the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable development. He explained that the Joint Education Program brings together government institutions, technical colleges, and development partners to improve the quality of training and ensure students gain skills that are relevant locally and internationally.
Officials from the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education said the program will focus on areas such as engineering, construction, information technology, agriculture, and other technical fields that are vital to national development. They added that students will benefit from improved facilities, updated curricula, and stronger links with industries.
The principal of Freetown Technical College welcomed the initiative and described it as a major boost for the institution. He said the program will enhance the college’s capacity to train skilled technicians and professionals who can contribute meaningfully to the economy.
Students who attended the event expressed optimism about the program, saying it offers them better opportunities to gain practical experience and improve their chances of employment after graduation.
The launch of the Joint Education Program reflects the government’s continued commitment to education reform and youth empowerment. By investing in technical and vocational training, the Bio administration aims to build a skilled and productive workforce that can support industrial growth and national development.
The program is expected to be expanded to other technical institutions across the country as part of efforts to modernise education and prepare young Sierra Leoneans for the future.
