A historic milestone toward energy independence and sustainable development was reached on Thursday, May 29, 2025, when Njala University officially commenced construction of a 1-megawatt (1MW) solar power plant at its Njala Campus. The groundbreaking ceremony was led by Hon. Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, Energy Sector Lead and Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security (PI-CREF).
The solar project, financed under the World Bank-supported Regional Emergency Solar Power Intervention Project (RESPITE), is expected to be completed by early 2026. Once operational, it will significantly reduce the University’s dependence on the national grid and generate annual savings of over USD 480,000 in electricity costs.
During a well-attended public lecture following a tour of the construction site, Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella delivered a keynote address on the theme: “Energy Transition and Human Capital Development.” He outlined Sierra Leone’s four-pillar national energy transition strategy:
- Strengthening energy governance,
- Transforming the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA),
- Increasing renewable energy generation and
- Implementing least-cost electricity solutions for citizens.
“This project is a powerful symbol of Sierra Leone’s readiness to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy,” said Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella. “It’s not just about powering buildings; it’s about powering minds, fueling innovation and unlocking the future of human capital development.”
He also highlighted complementary national energy initiatives, including the 105MW Nant Energy project and the Mission 300 Compact, which aim to double or triple the country’s energy capacity by 2026.
The Njala community welcomed Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella with a hero’s reception, recognizing the solar initiative as a transformative response to over four decades of unreliable and insufficient electricity supply on campus.
Speaking on behalf of President Julius Maada Bio, Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and climate-resilient infrastructure. He commended the World Bank for its continued partnership in delivering clean and affordable energy across the country.
“Under the RESPITE program, this initiative will provide uninterrupted electricity that supports teaching, research, digital learning and campus-wide innovation,” he stated. “It will also free up critical financial resources for academic investment.”
The Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Njala University, Professor Bashiru Mohamed Koroma, described the launch as a “historic and monumental milestone.” He expressed optimism about the university’s transformation, noting that 15 acres of land have already been allocated and cleared to expedite the installation process.
“For decades, our academic potential has been held back by erratic electricity supply,” said Prof. Koroma. “This project is a beacon of hope for higher education in Sierra Leone and a bold step toward energy independence.”
Also speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Sarjoh Aziz-Kamara, emphasized the broader educational impact of the solar project.
“This is more than an energy intervention; it is a strategic investment in the country’s educational future,” Sarjoh Aziz Kamara said. “Stable power is essential for research, digital innovation, and creating a world-class learning environment.”
Dr. Kandeh Yumkella used the occasion to inspire students to pursue careers in renewable energy, solar technology and environmental sustainability. Sharing personal reflections, he encouraged them to adapt, learn and lead.
“You are the energy leaders of tomorrow,” he told the audience. “Be bold, stay humble and let your discipline define your future.”
With the 1MW solar plant underway, Njala University is poised to move from decades of power shortages to a new era of renewable energy, academic excellence and national development.
