AYV News, April 23, 2026
Sierra Leone has entered a new phase in international education cooperation following the signing of two landmark Memoranda of Understanding between the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education and South Korea’s Yeungnam University.
The agreements, signed by Minister of Technical and Higher Education Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, will link Yeungnam University with Milton Margai Technical University and Eastern Technical University, strengthening collaboration in technical and vocational education.
The initiative aligns with President Julius Maada Bio’s broader vision of positioning education as a key driver of national development. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Wurie emphasized the transformative potential of the partnership, particularly through the adoption of the Saemaul Undong principles—centered on diligence, self-help, and cooperation—as a model for community-driven growth.
She noted that the collaboration is expected to enhance local economic development and build long-term resilience by equipping young people with practical, market-relevant skills.
The Minister underscored the importance of sustained investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), describing it as essential for preparing the country’s workforce to meet evolving economic demands.
“These agreements represent a tangible commitment to empowering our youth, strengthening communities, and accelerating national development,” she stated.
Dr. Wurie also expressed appreciation to the President of Yeungnam University, Choi Oe-chool, for his leadership in facilitating the partnership. She further acknowledged the contributions of Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to South Korea, Paul Sobba Massaquoi, and the Sierra Leone Embassy in Seoul for their role in bringing the collaboration to fruition.
Officials say the agreements are expected to open new opportunities for knowledge exchange, institutional capacity building, and skills development, reinforcing Sierra Leone’s push toward a more skilled and competitive workforce.
