Njala University, Bo Campus, Kowama Location, 24th March 2026β Njala University has officially commenced the construction of a modern Medical School building at its Bo Campus, Kowama Location, in a landmark sod-turning ceremony held on 24th March 2026. The event attracted key stakeholders from government, academia, and the health sector, all emphasizing the projectβs importance to medical education and national development in Sierra Leone.
Professor Sahr Moses Gevao, Chancellor of Njala University described the ceremony as a historic milestone in the universityβs journey toward establishing a fully-fledged Medical School. He noted that significant groundwork has already been undertaken, including the development of anatomy and physiology laboratories and the recruitment and training of qualified academic and technical staff.
He further highlighted that the medical curriculum has been aligned with national and international standards, supported by investments in core textbooks and digital learning platforms.
Professor Bashiru Mohamed Koroma, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Njala University stated that the project represents a strategic investment in strengthening both medical education and the national health system. He emphasized that the facility will provide modern teaching spaces, laboratories, and simulation environments necessary for training competent and ethical health professionals.
He added that the university is adopting an integrated approach that combines education, research, and service delivery, while embracing the One Health framework. He commended the government, partners, and the Bo community for their continued support, describing the project as the foundation of a lasting legacy for future generations.
Mr. Santigie Sesay, Director of Physical Plant Services presented the project overview, explaining that the Medical School building will be an L-shaped, two-storey structure designed to deliver a modern and sustainable learning environment with a gold-standard rating.
He disclosed that the building will include six classrooms with a total capacity of 1,200 students, two laboratories, four offices, and restrooms. He added that the project, funded through a university bank loan and internal contributions, is scheduled to commence in March 2026 and be completed by August 2026, with United Construction and Engineering Services as the contractor.
Professor Rashid Ansumana, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Bo Campus reaffirmed the universityβs commitment to ensuring successful execution of the project, noting that the Directorate of Physical Plant Services will work closely with the contractor throughout the construction process. He emphasized that the facility is designed to meet high-quality standards while expanding student capacity.
Expressing confidence in the engineers, he stated that the building is expected to be completed within five months and ready for use in the next academic year.
Dr. Charles Edward Lahai Senesie, Deputy Minister of Health described the project as timely and aligned with national health priorities. He stressed that Sierra Leone continues to face a shortage of trained health professionals, making investments in medical education critical to improving healthcare delivery.
He noted that the facility will expand training capacity, improve learning conditions, and reduce reliance on foreign training institutions. He reaffirmed the Ministry of Healthβs commitment to supporting the initiative, emphasizing that its long-term impact will be reflected in improved healthcare outcomes across the country.
Mohamed Sheick Kargbo, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education underscored the importance of institutional self-reliance, noting that universities must take proactive steps to complement government efforts, particularly in the face of limited public resources. He commended the university administration for its foresight and decisive action in undertaking the project.
He added that such initiatives not only improve infrastructure but also enhance institutional credibility and attract partnerships. He encouraged sustained collaboration between government and higher education institutions to ensure continuous progress in the sector.
Credit: Public Relations Unit, Njala University
