MTHE Presents 2027 Manpower Plan, Highlights Staffing Gaps and Quality Education Priorities

Technical Higher Education Ministry unveiled its 2027 Manpower Plan Budget Estimates Thursday, spotlighting staffing gaps and quality education priorities.

The presentation took place at the Public Service Academy, OAU Drive, State Avenue, Freetown, under the theme "Expanding the Human Resource Base of Government in Enhancing Quality Public Service Delivery."

The event brought together the Ministry’s Senior Permanent Secretary, directors, staff, and Human Resource Management Office officials to discuss staffing requirements, workforce planning, and strategies for improving public service delivery.

Senior Permanent Secretary Mohamed Sheick Kargbo called for increased recruitment of professional staff to address shortages and strengthen the Ministry’s capacity to supervise universities and technical institutions. He also highlighted inadequate funding, limited office space, and logistical challenges affecting operations.

Deputy Director of Human Resources Sallu Kaifala disclosed that the Ministry has an approved establishment of 125 positions, with 70 personnel currently employed. He stressed the need to strengthen professional staffing, improve workforce planning, and consider recruitment and promotions for 2027.

Deputy Chief Technical and Higher Education Officer Sia Fasuluku called for stronger disability inclusion policies, improved assessment procedures, and adequate funding to ensure equitable access to education for persons with disabilities.

Director of Higher Education Emmanuel J. Momoh addressed university governance, staff investigations, and ongoing negotiations over academic salaries and conditions of service. He stressed the importance of constructive dialogue and adherence to established procedures.

Director of Performance Management Chernor I. Mansaray urged the Ministry to strengthen quality assurance and improve teaching and learning conditions, citing overcrowded classrooms and inadequate seating at some institutions.

Director of Corporate Strategy and Administration Ibrahim S. Kamara raised concerns about graduate unemployment and the status of student grant-aid programmes. He called for stronger links between higher education institutions and employers to improve graduate employment opportunities.

The discussions underscored the importance of strengthening the Ministry’s human resource capacity, promoting inclusive education, improving institutional performance, and ensuring higher education institutions provide quality learning environments.

The meeting provided a platform for the Ministry and HRMO officials to examine workforce gaps and consider measures to enhance effective and efficient public service delivery across Sierra Leone’s technical and higher education sector.