The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC), in collaboration with the Commonwealth of Learning (CoL), has ended a two-day capacity-building workshop for Higher Education Institutions and respective stakeholders for online facilitation, including the use of artificial intelligence and inclusive technologies for Open and Distance Learning (ODL).
In his opening remarks, the Chairperson of the Workshop, Dr. Issa Fofanah, welcomed participants at the session and expressed excitement for the scheduled topics that would be discussed.
He admonished respective stakeholders to make meaningful contributions during the workshop, as the topics highlighted are key to the development of education in Sierra Leone.
While delivering his statement, the Chairman of TEC, Professor A.M Alghali, welcomed participants at the workshop and expressed delight to see that bright minds have gathered and United by shared interest to harness the power of artificial intelligence to innovate, empower, and transform teaching and learning methods and skills acquisitions. Professor Alghali pointed out that the integration of artificial intelligence and inclusive technologies into open and distance learning (ODL) presents an unparalleled opportunity to address challenges in accessibility, quality, and inclusivity in higher education.
The Chairman went on to explain the importance of the workshop. “The workshop is a testament to the shared commitment to building a resilient and innovative education sector in Sierra Leone, one that aligns with global trends and caters to the diverse needs of learners in the country and region”, the Chairman expressed.
In her keynote address, the Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Dr Haja Ramatulai Wurie, noted that the workshop was timely, as the deliberations have the potential to revolutionise education in Sierra Leone. “Online facilitation, artificial intelligence, and inclusive technologies for online and distance learning are needed within the educational space in Sierra Leone”, she noted.
The Minister added that Sierra Leone is at a pivotal stage and that the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education has committed itself to a vision for education that is inclusive, equitable, and transformative. Presentations on artificial intelligence and curriculum development were made by various stakeholders.
