By Sorie Ibrahim Fofanah
The University of Sierra Leone (USL) has in a public notice dated 14th June 2024 stated that a committee established to investigate alleged financial, administrative and procurement “irregularities” at the university since June 2018 to 31st January 2024, has commenced its work.
“The purpose of this committee is to investigate, document and report findings to the University Court for consideration and decision. The committee comprises nine members who were selected based on proven credibility, professionalism, and competence,” part of the notice reads.
The Chairman of the committee is Professor Mallam O. Sankoh, described as a highly esteemed researcher with a wealth of experience in administration and financial management.
The notice highlights the Terms of Reference (TOR) of the committee, of which it shall review and make recommendations in respect of the Finance Director’s performance in ensuring that financial reports are prepared for auditing in accordance with various sections of the Universities Act (2021).
It also notes how the committee shall review the Registrar’s performance in ensuring the administration of USL and the conduct of the administrative business of USL other than that which was assigned to him by the University’s Court.
The committee is to review “the Registrar’s application of human resource policies including the renewal of contracts of staff members, advice and documentation of staff members’ retirement, and payroll information.
Other functions of the committee, according to the notice, shall include the review of the Registrar’s role in the circumstances that led to the dissolution of the former USL Court; the refusal of both the Registrar and the Finance Director to handover and change signatories of bank accounts; recommendations regarding the financial investigation of the financial statements for the years ending December 31, 2021, December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2023, among others.
The Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE) in May issued a correspondence to the USL’s administration regarding financial and administrative concerns for the period 2018 -2023, in which it stated in its notice it will investigate the university over such allegations.
The university however put out a press release in which it acknowledged the correspondence from the ministry, and also stated it would set up a committee to investigate issues raised.
Copyright © 2024 Politico (21/06/24)
