On November 7, 2026, Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, Minister of Technical and Higher Education, delivered the keynote address at Njala University's graduation ceremony in Bo City, Sierra Leone. The ceremony brought together university officials, academic and administrative staff, graduates, families, and other members of the university community to celebrate the academic achievements of the graduands. Dr. Wurie congratulated the graduates, their families, and the entire Njala University community, describing the occasion as an important milestone in their academic and professional journeys.
The theme of Dr. Wurie's keynote address was "Advancing Innovation, Expanding Opportunities and Building a University for National Development." She extended special congratulations to graduates from the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, recognising their achievements and contribution to the ministry's wider educational community. Dr. Wurie also challenged universities across Sierra Leone to strengthen their contribution to national development by going beyond awarding academic qualifications.
Dr. Wurie emphasised that higher education institutions must play a more direct role in generating knowledge, developing practical solutions, and addressing national development priorities. This is particularly important as Sierra Leone advances its human capital development agenda. She urged universities to strengthen research, invest in faculty development, embrace innovation, and build stronger partnerships with industry.
Addressing the graduates, Dr. Wurie reminded them that their academic qualifications should serve as a foundation for greater responsibility and meaningful contributions to society. She urged them to serve Sierra Leone with integrity and dedication, drawing inspiration from Njala University's motto, "Knowledge and Service." The minister also commended the university's leadership, lecturers, academic and administrative staff for their commitment and hard work.
The graduation ceremony marked the beginning of Njala University's graduation season. Dr. Wurie's participation underscored the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education's recognition of academic achievement and the role of higher education in developing skilled human resources for Sierra Leone. The ceremony was attended by various stakeholders, including university officials, academic and administrative staff, graduates, and their families.
In her address, Dr. Wurie highlighted the importance of universities producing graduates who can contribute to national development. She encouraged the graduates to be agents of change and to use their knowledge and skills to drive innovation and progress in Sierra Leone. The minister's message resonated with the graduates and the audience, emphasising the need for collaboration between academia and industry.
The event concluded with Dr. Wurie expressing her confidence in the abilities of the graduates and the potential of Njala University to produce high-quality graduates who can drive national development. The ceremony ended on a positive note, with the graduates and their families celebrating their achievements and looking forward to their future endeavours.
Key points
- Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie delivers keynote address at Njala University graduation ceremony
- Minister challenges universities to strengthen contribution to national development
- Graduates urged to serve Sierra Leone with integrity and dedication
