By Politico staff writer
Njala University has taken over the Bonthe Technical Training College (BONTEC) to boost education in the district.
Official endorsement of the move was observed on the 17th December, 2022 at a district stakeholders meeting in Mattru Jong.
In his statement, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Njala University, Professor Bashiru Mohamed Koroma urged Bonthe district stakeholders to see the engagement as a "dynamic rebirth of innovative veritable emerging resourcefulness". He pointed out that his vision for the campus is to see that it develops into a true hub for innovation in West Africa and one of the continent's most desirable learning centres.
He said the rationale behind Njala’s takeover of BONTEC is to bring additional education benefits to the host towns and district. He informed them that his administration is planning to inaugurate the campus in March 2023.
Professor Koroma stated that, the campus will not only focus on the Island but also on the Mainland. He also revealed the School of Maritime Studies as the campus' primary focus while outlining the proposed schools and institutes.
In his remarks, Member of Parliament (MP) Sengepoh Solomon Thomas promised his full support to the university and spoke about him getting President Julius Maada Bio’s involvement also in supporting the institution.
He reiterated Bonthe people's complete support for the new campus and that the young people in the district will not experience the difficulties they faced trying to pursue higher education elsewhere. He commended Professor Koroma for his effort in ensuring that the dream is realized.
Acting Bonthe District Council Chairman, Willie Parker,reaffirmed his support for the initiative and referred to the engagement as the first in the district's history. He emphasized that the programme was borne out of the outcome of President Bio's drive for higher educational attainment.
Other district stakeholders, including the Chairmen of the Bauxite Mining Landowners' Federation, Inter-Religious Council, Civil Society Organization, Conference of Principals, Council of Paramount Chiefs, and the Bonthe District Parliamentary Caucus, all expressed their support for the new campus.
Copyright © 2022 Politico (21/12/22)
