Delivering his address to a jam-packed audience in the college’s auditorium, Mr. Kamara explained to staff and students the various approaches ACC employs in combating graft in the country. He went on to explain the key features of the Anti-Corruption Act of 2008, as amended, cataloguing the various corruption offences contained therein.
The Regional Manager reminded students that as teachers in training they should imbibe good moral values; among which are high levels of integrity and commitment in their career as teachers, describing them as agents of change in the country’s socio-economic development. “Corruption in the education system is one of the most potent form of corruption that leaves an indelible negative imprint on the psyche of the pupils you are going to teach”, the Regional Manager noted. He added that Sierra Leone is endowed with immense resources which, if prudently managed will tremendously accelerate its socio-economic growth and improve the wellbeing of the nation. He however lamented that corruption is the major impediment that undermines the country’s development potential.
Earlier, in his welcome address the Acting Vice Principal of the College, Albert Turay, expressed delight on the Commission’s prompt response to their invitation to give a talk on corruption to staff and students. He said inviting the ACC in their midst is a clear manifestation that his administration is employing all available avenues to curb corruption in their institution. He informed his audience that the college is currently putting in place robust reforms to improve the learning environment so as to provide an all-round discipline for students. “Such innovation could only be fully realized if we discourage acts of corruption in the administration of the college”, he emphasised.
Acting Principal of the College, Ahmed Adakwa Koroma expressed appreciation to the Regional Manager, ACC for honoring their invitation to the college. He said most times offences are committed through ignorance, but educating them on corruption and its effects will go a long way in transforming the hearts and minds to stay clear of any acts that may constitute corruption offences. He assured the ACC that the doors of the college remain open to the Commission and assured the team of their support in fighting graft.
The ACC Coordinator, Port Loko District, Sahid M. Kamara assured staff and students that as the representative of the ACC on the ground he will be working closely with the college to strengthen partnership in the fight against graft.
An interactive session providing the audience the opportunity to ask questions and make comments formed the high point of the engagement.