Deputy Minister Calls for University-Industry Collaboration to Drive Innovation at EBKUST Trade Fair.

Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Sarjoh Aziz-Kamara, has called for stronger collaboration between universities, industry, and development partners to drive innovation and national development.

Speaking on April 25, 2026, at the National Pitching and Trade Fair hosted by the Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology (EBKUST), the Deputy Minister said universities globally are shifting from just teaching and exams to becoming hubs of innovation and practical problem-solving.

“When these sectors work together, the results can be transformative,” Aziz-Kamara said, noting that universities contribute research and youthful talent while industry offers investment and market access, with development partners providing technical and financial support.

He described the event, themed “Fostering Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Collaboration among Academia, Industry and Development Partners,” as timely and strategic. He praised EBKUST’s leadership for creating a platform that merges academia, entrepreneurs, and private sector players under one roof.

The Deputy Minister stressed that such partnerships turn research into business solutions and ideas into enterprises that fuel national growth. He pointed to youth unemployment as a pressing challenge, arguing that education must go beyond certification to deliver real skills and employability.

“Innovation is not limited to experts,” he told students directly. “It begins with simple solutions to everyday problems.”

He urged private sector actors to invest in student talent through internships, mentorship, and curriculum input, describing this as a long-term investment in the country’s workforce. He also encouraged development partners to continue backing youth empowerment and higher education initiatives.

Aziz-Kamara concluded by expressing hope that the trade fair would produce lasting partnerships, viable businesses, and practical solutions to Sierra Leone’s challenges.

Correspondent-Richard Williams

Ministry of Technical and Higher Education

Tel:+23203086143