Chief Minister urges graduates to dream boldly and serve society

Chief Minister Dr David Moinina Sengeh was the Guest Speaker at Central University’s 5th Congregation Ceremony, which took place in Tonkolili, Mile 91, and saw hundreds of graduates receive Bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, and certificates. Faculty, development partners, community leaders, and families attended the event to commemorate a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s higher education and human capital development.
Chief Minister Sengeh challenged the graduating class to be both dreamers and servants, encouraging them to pursue radical, inclusive visions while also committing to public service. He emphasised the importance of collective action, saying, “Together, government, private sector, development partners, and citizens, we deliver.” He announced four scholarships for bloggers to attend Central University as part of his efforts to increase community engagement and youth empowerment.
Vice Chancellor Professor Bob Karanka Conteh congratulated the new alumni and highlighted the university’s strong international partnerships, which he said have helped graduates find work. He stated that 100% of previous graduates have found work, which he cited as proof of the institution’s alignment with market demands and high academic standards.
Minister of Technical and Higher Education Haja Ramatulai Wurie emphasised ethical behaviour in the face of rapidly evolving technologies. She urged the graduates to maintain integrity and professional standards, especially as new tools such as artificial intelligence become more integrated into the workplace and society.
The congregation reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s dedication to its Big Five Game Changers, with a special emphasis on human capital development, youth empowerment, inclusive growth, and educational innovation. The ceremony emphasised higher education institutions’ critical role in producing skilled, ethical, and service-oriented graduates capable of contributing to long-term national development. As new alumni prepare to enter the workforce and civic life, organisers and speakers urged them to apply what they’ve learned to make tangible contributions to the nation’s progress.