The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Public Service Commission (PSC), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Emerging Public Leaders (EPL) to foster collaboration on the Emerging Public Leader Initiative (TEPLI). The signing took place on February 4, 2025, at the PSC Office in Freetown.
Madam Abigail Kajumba, Executive Director of EPL, shared insights about the organization's mission to promote good governance and equitable prosperity across Africa.
To realize this vision, EPL seeks to identify and nurture talented, ethical, and energetic government professionals. In partnership with local entities, EPL systematically selects and trains diverse youth committed to advancing good governance in their respective countries. Through continued support, these emerging leaders aim to enhance the delivery of government services with care, innovation, and integrity.
Founded over 15 years ago, EPL will provide a proven curriculum tailored to the specific needs of Sierra Leone. Kajumba underscored that their flagship fellowship program will soon launch, offering young graduates a year-long experience that includes training, mentorship, performance evaluations, and community engagement. The initiative aims to equip participants with essential skills to serve effectively in public administration.
The partnership will facilitate the implementation of TEPLI, which focuses on recruiting and developing young Sierra Leonean graduates passionate about public service. The initial phase, supported by the MasterCard Foundation, will target recent graduates in a comprehensive fellowship program covering both practical and theoretical modules.
Under the new agreement, EPL will establish a local office and collaborate with third-party organizations to fund and manage the program effectively. This partnership includes creating a comprehensive database of applicants and sharing pertinent information with the government during the selection process.
Minister of Public Administration and Political Affairs, Amara Kallon, expressed enthusiasm for this cutting-edge agreement, highlighting the need for reforms in public service to meet evolving global challenges. He adduced the importance of women's representation and the potential for utilizing the knowledge of retiring public servants to mentor youth and foster innovation within the public sector.
Dr. Victor Massaquoi, Principal of the Civil Service Training College, equally stated the necessity of enhancing public servants' skills to boost government efficiency, particularly in agriculture. He expressed optimism for future initiatives geared toward elevating public service in Sierra Leone.
Kalilu O. Bah, Chairman of the Public Service Commission, stressed the significance of broadening perspectives in public service reform. He highlighted the need to engage younger generations as catalysts for change and embraced the formation of a union for retired civil servants to support ongoing reforms. He affirmed the government's dedication to integrating young leaders into influential roles for a brighter future in Sierra Leone.
Correspondent-Amara Kargbo
Email: kargboamara079@gmail.com
Tel: +232 73111507
Yorumlar