By Richard Williams
The University of Sierra Leone (USL), in collaboration with the Ministries of Technical and Higher Education and Public Administration and Political Affairs, hosted a public lecture on June 11 at Fourah Bay College on the theme: “Integrating E-Learning and Technology in Higher Education in Africa: Hopes and Impediments.”
The event brought together government officials, academics, students, and development partners to discuss the challenges and prospects of digital transformation in African higher education.
Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, emphasized technology as a national and continental priority, reaffirming her ministry’s commitment to equity, access, and sustainability, citing ongoing efforts to develop an Open and Distance Learning Policy with the Commonwealth of Learning.
Minister of Public Administration and Political Affairs, Mr Amara Kallon, called for tech-driven public service reform, stressing the need for youth inclusion, women’s empowerment, and innovation in governance.
The Keynote speaker, Professor Peter Masibo Lumala of Moi University- Kenya, advocated for a human-centred approach to e-learning, highlighting the importance of inclusion and lifelong learning. He urged stronger partnerships with internet providers to improve access, especially in rural areas.
USL’s Professor Jonas Redwood-Sawyerr outlined the university’s gradual e-learning rollout, including faculty training, quality assurance reforms, and a focus on postgraduate programs.
The lecture concluded with a unified call for local innovation, intra-African collaboration, and long-term investment in digital education as a driver of inclusive national development.
