NSCoord engages University Leaders on Peace and Development AYV News May 26, 2023 The National Security Coordinator (NSCoord) in the Office of National Security (ONS) has held an engagement with University Leaders of the various universities and constituent colleges in Freetown, on Peace and Development. He affirmed that students have very cardinal roles to play in sustaining the peace and accelerating development in Sierra Leone. The NSCoord, who had in recent past also held meetings with the same set of leaders, stated that, as a former student leader himself, he is certain that the influence which students have over their colleagues, could be leveraged upon to foster peace, security and national cohesion, especially as the country moves towards general elections. The NSCoord further expressed that one of the reasons he always engages students is to enhance dialogue and synergy among the various national stakeholders, and recognized that students form part of that critical stakeholders’ groups. He informed the students that it is in periods like that some desperate politicians always use students for their selfish gains. The NSCoord therefore admonished students not to allow any political grouping to use them in engaging in illegal demonstrations. Responding, the presidents of the various tertiary institutions collectively expressed delight for the recognition. They however stated that they were not aware of any planned demonstrations and assured that they will not be parties to any form of illegal demonstrations. They further appealed for audience with H.E, President Bio, support to accomplish the promises made to their colleagues, seek broader recognition and inclusivity, among others, the absence of which others always exploit. The meeting ended with the following resolutions: a. Facilitate an engagement between student tertiary leaders and President Julius Maada Bio. b. Share with the NSCoord, a copy of the proposal developed by the National Union for Students (NUSS) and c. Send an official invitation to the NSCoord for the peace match between APC and SLPP students at FBC. The meeting was attended by the Presidents of NUSS, FBC, COHMAS, MMTU, Freetown Polytechnic and the Deputy Director, Strategic Communications, ONS.