By Ibrahim John Sesay
Central University has hosted a high-level monitoring delegation comprising United Nations agencies and key government ministries to assess progress on the ongoing Ready Salone Project, an initiative focused on youth skills development and innovation-led learning. The event took place on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the Central University campus in Mile 91, Tonkolili District.
The visit brought together representatives from the United Nations in Sierra Leone, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), UNICEF, the Ministry of Youth Affairs, the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation, the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, and the Ministry of Trade and Industry, alongside officials from the International Trade Centre (ITC) and development partners.
Implemented through the International Trade Centre (ITC) with support from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), the Ready Salone Project continues to position itself as a flagship youth empowerment programme in Sierra Leone.
At the core of the initiative are two practical training programmes: Smart Agriculture and Digital Content Creation, both of which are currently being delivered at Central University to enhance employability and entrepreneurship among 200 young people.
During the monitoring exercise, the delegation toured the Smart Agriculture Farm and Digital Content Creation Hub, observing students actively engaged in modern agricultural practices, agribusiness innovation, media production, video editing, and graphic design.
Speaking at the event, the National Coordinator of the International Trade Centre (ITC), Siaka Kawa, described the project as a transformational platform for young people across the country.
“The Ready Salone Project is not just training; it is economic transformation in action,” he said. “What we are seeing here at Central University proves that young people can drive innovation when given the right tools and environment.”
He further noted that the integration of agriculture and digital skills reflects global trends in job creation and entrepreneurship.
The UN delegation, led by the UN Resident Coordinator, Seraphine Wakana, expressed strong satisfaction with the progress of the project and the quality of student output. She commended the initiative, noting that the visit provided valuable insights for development programming.
“We have learned a great deal from the Smart Agriculture model here,” she stated. “The technologies and approaches demonstrated will certainly inform how we support similar initiatives across Sierra Leone.”
She emphasized that youth-driven innovation remains central to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in the country.
In her statement, the Minister of Planning and Economic Development (MOPED), Kenyeh Barley, highlighted the alignment of the project with national priorities. She praised Central University and its partners for complementing government efforts.
“This initiative is fully aligned with our human capital development agenda,” she said. “It demonstrates what is possible when academia, government, and development partners work together.”
She added that such programmes are critical to reducing youth unemployment and expanding digital literacy nationwide.
The Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MOGCA), Dr. Isata Mahoi, described the joint visit as highly insightful. She stated that the project reflects the practical implementation of empowerment policies.
“This joint visit has been an eye-opener,” she said. “It complements government efforts to ensure young people, especially women, are actively included in national development.”
She encouraged the expansion of similar programmes to more institutions across the country.
The Vice Chancellor of Central University, Prof. Bob Karankay Conteh, expressed gratitude to all partners supporting the initiative. He acknowledged the collaborative effort behind the project’s success.
“We are deeply appreciative of ITC, KOICA, UN agencies, and government ministries for believing in our vision,” he said. “Central University is committed to practical, innovation-driven education.”
He noted that the university aims to scale up the Smart Agriculture and Digital Content Creation training models in the coming academic cycles.
Students participating in the programme also shared testimonies on its impact. Mariatu Kargbo, a beneficiary of the Digital Content Creation programme, explained how the training has reshaped her academic direction and future ambitions.
“The Ready Salone Project has changed how I see education,” she said. “I can now edit videos and create flyers for clients.”
She added that the hands-on experience has increased her confidence in pursuing entrepreneurship after the six-month diploma programme.
“I am deeply grateful for the stipend we receive every month to motivate us to learn,” she stated.
The delegation observed Smart Agriculture techniques, structured farming systems, irrigation methods, and digital content created by students under supervision.
Officials noted that the integration of practical learning with innovation reflects a shift from theory-based to skills-based education. As the monitoring visit concluded, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining and expanding the initiative.
The Ready Salone Project continues to be viewed as a strategic model for youth empowerment, innovation, and sustainable development in Sierra Leone.
