Following the tragic fire incident that devastated the University’s Yoni campus female hostels on April 15th, 2024, the Chancellor, Most Rev. Bishop Dr. Bob John Hassan Koroma, personally visited the scene to assess the damage and extends support to the affected individuals.
Upon witnessing the aftermath of the blaze, Chancellor Koroma expressed deep concern and solidarity with the victims. In response to the urgent needs of those impacted, he initiated immediate aid efforts by donating NLe500 each through Caritas Makeni, an act aimed at providing immediate relief to those affected by the disaster.
Caritas which is the Relief mechanism of the Catholic mission was able to rally round its leadership within the Catholic Diocese of Makeni to galvanise support for the victims as instructed by the Bishop, a move the Director of Caritas Makeni Rev. Fr. Benjamin Sesay expressed great delight to have accomplished.
Additionally, the University community has rallied together in support of the victims, with generous contributions pouring in from various quarters.
Rokel Commercial Bank, Madam Lamisha Ballat, and other philanthropic entities have stepped forward, offering support in the form of food items, non-food essentials, and financial assistance.
The Director of Finance and administration of Unimak led a team that includes the Administrator and deputy of Yoni campus, Administrator Fatima campus, HOD Clinical Psychology department, Director of Public Relations, Procurement officer, a member from the Human Resources Directorate, HOD Mass Communication and other staff were able to present the items to the victims.
In presenting the relief support on behalf of the Chancellor and other well-wishers, the administrator of the Sylvanus Koroma Campus Rev. Sr. Magdalene Umoh reaffirmed the University’s commitment to ensuring the wellbeing of every affected student and swiftly rebuilding the damaged hostels.
Earlier, the affected victims have been relocated to the newly built Bombali District Council hostels, providing a safe and conducive living environment for the affected students.
The Site has been visited by various stakeholders including The Office of National Security and Fire force to discuss future prevention and mitigation efforts.
In light of this devastating event, the University administration appeals to all well-wishers and donors to join hands in providing further assistance, both in material and financial capacities.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all individuals and organizations who have already come forward to support the victims during this challenging time,” the University stated.
