The Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE), Ministry of Communication Technology and Innovation (MOCTI) and Helcome (SL) Ltd signed MoU to enhance internet connectivity across higher Learning institution. This event took place at the Ministry of Technical and Higher New England Ville Sababu Building on the 30 January 2025
The agreement aims to improve internet connectivity across all universities in Sierra Leone, ensuring access to high-speed WiFi for students and faculty. In his Opening statement,Sarjoh Aziz Kamara“The initiative is a milestone for digital learning in Sierra Leone.Aligned with President Julius Maada Bio’s Big Five Game Changers, particularly in technology and infrastructure”.Aziz stated
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The Partnership with Helcome aims to deliver high-speed internet across all universities to support digital learning, Hussain Sharaffdeen (Managing Director, HelcomeSL Ltd)Committed to providing high-speed internet to all universities, ensuring no institution is left behind.
Their aim is to supports the digitalization agenda and aligns with both ministries’ visions. They will work closely with the ministries to implement the project as quickly as possible.
In her Welcome statement Dr. RamutulaiWurie, thanked Helcome SL Ltd for partnering in this important venture. She emphasized the need for sustainable and reliable internet connectivity in higher learning institutions with affordable educational websites via Helcome services through Starlink.and to ensure that, all public and private universities will be connected in the first phase and vocational institutes in the second phase of the connectivity process. The initiative supports human capital development, digitalization, and youth employment in the digital era.
Salima Bah,Minister of Communication and Innovation in her opening statement, said the journey to this agreement reflects commitment from all parties involved.
Aligns with President Bio’s vision that internet access should be a basic human right in Sierra Leone.
The government launched Starlink in Sierra Leone as part of the efforts to expand connectivity, making the country the 10th in Africa and among 100 worldwide to adopt Starlink.Three companies are now registered as Starlink providers in Sierra Leone, including Helcome SL Ltd.
Sierra Leone will be the first African country to provide high-speed internet across all universities. Rapid deployment of high-speed internet to all higher institutions andcollaboration between the government and the private sector to sustain connectivity.
The initiative is expected to enhance digital education, online learning, and future job opportunities for students.A formal launch event, including a ribbon-cutting ceremony, is anticipated.This MoU represents a major step towards digital transformation in Sierra Leone's educational sector.
Richard Williams
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