The University of Sierra Leone (USL) has on Wednesday, March 13th, 2024, installed Paramount Chief Dr. Margaret Catherine Baio-Gbanie IV as its first female Chancellor. PC Baio-Gbanie succeeded Sanpha Koroma, who resigned from his position a couple of months ago.
The ceremony, held at the Committee Room in Fourah Bay College, was well attended. Acting Vice Chancellor of USL, Professor Aiah Lebbie, remarked, “Today marks a significant moment in the history of our esteemed institution, the University of Sierra Leone. We are gathered here to install not just any chancellor, but the first female chancellor of the University of Sierra Leone.”
During the handover of the symbol of office, Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Dr. Ramatulai Wurie, stated, “In such a turbulent period, the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education took decisive steps in addressing the challenges faced by the University of Sierra Leone by developing a roadmap with clear timelines.” She highlighted the establishment of an Oversight Committee, which guided significant strides toward restoring stability to the University.
“The next step in our roadmap is to reconstitute the Court, and that is why we are here today,” the Minister added. “With a new Chancellor appointed, it is imperative to reconstitute the Court.” Additionally, plans are in place to appoint a Substantive Vice Chancellor and Principal for the University of Sierra Leone.
In her acceptance speech, Chancellor Dr. Margaret Catherine Baio-Gbanie expressed gratitude for her appointment, extending thanks to President Julius Maada Bio, Minister Wurie, and her team. She pledged to lead the university with dedication, aiming to restore its reputation of excellence.
“I am privileged and humbled by this opportunity to lead our great university, my alma mater,” she stated. “My fervent hope is to work tirelessly to regain the University of Sierra Leone’s reputation as the Athens of West Africa, thus contributing to our nation’s advancement.”
Addressing concerns, she promised to adhere to the University Act of 2021 and the timelines set by the Oversight Committee for matriculation and congregation activities.
Dr. Margaret Catherine Baio-Gbanie IV, born to the late Mr. Daniel Anthony Baio and Paramount Chief Madam Veronica Komeh Baio-Gbanie III, received her education in the Catholic tradition. A sports enthusiast, she excelled academically and athletically, obtaining her Bachelor of Arts degree in History and English Language from Fourah Bay College. She later pursued a Diploma in Education and earned a Master of Arts degree in Curriculum Development from the University of Sussex, UK.
With a career spanning education and curriculum development, Dr. Baio-Gbanie brings a wealth of experience to her new role as Chancellor of the University of Sierra Leone.
