The UNICEF Advisor for West and Central Africa Region, Madam Cecelia Baldeh on Thursday 9th February 2023 visited the Milton Margai Technical University (MMTU), his alma mater, during which event she pledged $1,000 dollars to the Students Union Government of the University.
Three other old students, Mr. Aiah Bayor also pledged Le10 million, Mr. Sheriff Sesay Le.2 million to the Physical Health Education Department and Mr. Joseph Lahai, on behalf of the Variety Children’s Orphanage, Le5 million to the Students Union respectively.
The ceremony took place at the Great Hall of the Goderich campus in Freetown.
Dr. Aiah Bayor revealed that the day is emotional to reunite with every facet of the MMTU and informed that Madam Cecelia Baldeh, a seasoned educationist, is covering 24 African countries for UNICEF.
In her speech, Madam Cecelia Baldeh, the UNICEF Advisor for West and Central Africa Region, disclosed that she is elated to return to her alma mater, that she entered MMTU in September 1977 and encouraged the students to work hard, invest their time and energy to attain their dreams, uphold truthfulness and honesty wherever they go as well as have passion for their professions.
She also urged them to be humble, relate well with people, stay focused, contribute meaningfully to society, transform their communities and commended the government and people of Sierra Leone for the opportunity to study in the country.
Dr. Philip John Kanu, Principal and Vice Chancellor of MMTU enlightened that the institution has produced great men and women and is the best teacher training institution in the country, that the recent Students Union were peaceful and transparent and observed that in the past there was high standard and discipline in the institution.
Giving a brief background about the history of MMTU, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor, Dr. Mohamed Alie Jalloh said the day is joyous, that alma mater is one’s second mother, informed that the first Prime Minister of Sierra Leone, Sir Milton Margai bought the 245 acres of land for 19 thousand Pounds Sterling for the construction of the institution and affirmed that MMTU has always stood the test of time as well as tailored to achieve great things.
The Chancellor of MMTU, Dr. Victor Kabia said the institution is still supported by government and disclosed plans to establish an endowment fund to manage it, acclaimed UNESCO for establishing MMTU underscoring that the university status is long overdue for which he assured that they would move rapidly.
The vote of thanks was rendered by the President of the Students Union, Mr. Joseph Batillo Komoh.
Singing of the University Song and presentation of a bouquet of flowers to Madam Cecelia Baldeh formed highlights of the event.
