Sierra Leone has one of the best diamonds in the world but over the years has been unable to grade and value its gems because of not having the prerequisite equipment and expertise.

He added that Gemologist is a career for people to be internationally competitive in the area of identifying and valuing gems, adding that the academy is already registered with the Tertiary Education Commission. 

Gemology according to Mr. Koroma is the study of gem stones; how they are mine, cut and valued, adding that Sierra Leone is rich in gem stones and therefore requisite knowledge in managing our mineral resources should be acquired.

He further said that the academy will be highlighting knowledge on what the country has, noting that knowing what you have gives an advantage to the country in terms of negotiating with buyers.

“World gem foundations have lots of academies across the world and you can study there and acquire international certificates,” he said, noting that when someone studies in those institutions, they can use their certificates anywhere in the world.

He went on to say they will be offering three different diploma courses for starters in diamond grading, gem stones and career Gemologist which include gem stones and diamond grading.