Njala University, on Friday, 19th September 2025, signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with three key ministries, the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE), the Ministry of Defense (MOD) and the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, marking a new phase of collaboration in education, research and civil-military cooperation. The signing ceremony took place in the Senate Room of the University Secretariat at the Njala Campus.
The agreement sets out a framework to strengthen Sierra Leone’s capacity in maritime education, security and research while fostering civil-military cooperation. It outlines joint academic and research programs in marine sciences, environmental studies, cadet training and security-related disciplines, with Bonthe District as a focal area.
Director of Higher Education at the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, Emmanuel J. Momoh Esq., described the agreement as a milestone in capacity-building. “This agreement strengthens our work in national security, maritime research, cadet training, environmental stewardship and institutional development, with Bonthe District as a central focus,” he explained. He emphasized that the MoU would enable knowledge exchange, collaborative training and shared use of infrastructure.
Each institution has been assigned a distinct role. The MTHE will provide policy guidance, accreditation and ensure alignment with national education strategies. Njala University, through its Bonthe Campus, will develop and deliver academic programs in partnership with the Navy. The Ministry of Defense will coordinate Navy involvement and enforce security compliance, while the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) Navy Detachment in Bonthe will provide technical expertise and logistical support for sea-based training. The Ministry of Transport and Aviation will contribute through maritime logistics, safety oversight and facilitating port access.
To ensure accountability, the parties agreed to establish a Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) to monitor progress, address challenges and oversee implementation. The MoU is set to remain in force for five years.
Deputy Minister of Technical and Higher Education commended Njala University for its foresight. “We are compelled to respond to the urgency of Njala University in its transformation to become a leading institution ready to contribute to nation-building,” he said, describing the MoU as a symbol of renewed commitment to partnership and education reform.
Chancellor of Njala University, Professor Sahr Moses Gevao, hailed the signing as a landmark moment. “I take great pride in witnessing Njala University taking bold steps towards relevance, resilience and responsiveness to Sierra Leone’s development needs. This agreement is not just a formality; it is a shared commitment to nation-building, expanding opportunity and fostering innovation,” he remarked.
Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Njala University, Professor Bashiru Mohamed Koroma, reaffirmed the institution’s vision for its Bonthe Campus. “At Njala University, we remain committed to serving as a hub for transformative research, inclusive education and public service. With this partnership, we aim to position Bonthe Campus as a model for specialized tertiary education in maritime studies, eco-tourism, coastal conservation and management, in line with national and global standards,” he stated.
The MoU, described as both strategic and forward-looking, is expected to create opportunities for students, researchers and the wider community, while strengthening Sierra Leone’s role in maritime education and civil-military collaboration.
