MTHE Welcomes Rehabilitated Youth Back into the Education SystemDeputy Minister, Sarjoh Aziz Kamara, at Ministry of Education

The Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE) hosted a symbolic and emotional reintegration ceremony in its Conference Room, Sababu Building, New England Ville, on October 7, 2025, welcoming youth who had previously struggled with drug addiction and successfully completed rehabilitation at the Peace Mission Training Centre (PMTC).

Deputy Minister Sarjoh Aziz Kamara emphasized the power of second chances for young people. He highlighted the government’s substantial investments in their futures through the Free Quality Education programme and rehabilitation initiatives. Kamara stressed that beneficiaries now bear the responsibility to sustain positive change, urging them to stay focused on education or skills training, avoid harmful associations, and uphold discipline and perseverance.

He cautioned against relapse and called on parents and communities to participate actively in the reintegration process. He framed human capital as the nation’s most valuable resource, insisting that the recovery and reintegration of these youth represent not only personal victories but national gains.

Fatmata Kaiwa, Director of Science Education at MTHE, described the ceremony as both emotional and inspirational. She noted that addiction brings shame to individuals and to their families and communities. In her view, the decision to seek rehabilitation marks a reclaiming of dignity, identity, and future prospects.

Kaiwa reminded beneficiaries that re-entry into tertiary institutions must follow due process submitting valid admission letters and academic transcripts. She clarified that government scholarships are currently prioritized for specific groups, including women in science, female personnel in the military and police, and persons with disabilities. She added that other applicants may access financial support through the ongoing student loan scheme, which is available at the postgraduate level.

Daniel Abu, Home Father of PMTC, expressed gratitude to the government for supporting youth rehabilitation. He announced that over 400 individuals had completed the programme to date, with the fifth and latest batch comprising 52 participants who are now under follow-up to ensure smooth reintegration into schools and communities.

Abu explained that the programme not only detoxified participants but also reoriented their minds and equipped them for academic and vocational pursuits. He further noted that rehabilitated youths are expected to serve as ambassadors of change, guiding others away from drug abuse and contributing positively to national development.

Oluwafemi Metzger, a beneficiary and former student of Milton Margai Technical University, shared his testimony. He recounted how drug abuse compelled him to abandon his Bachelor of Arts in International Relations. Metzger expressed gratitude for the chance to return to the education system, stating that he now envisions a future in which he could serve Sierra Leone as a diplomat. He urged government authorities to continue supporting rehabilitation efforts and encouraged others battling addiction to seek help.

Correspondent-Richard Williams

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