The Honourable Minister of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE), Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, has described the UniPod initiative at Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone, as a transformative platform poised to drive skills development across the nation’s universities. Dr. Wurie made this statement following a high-level meeting with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative, Fredrick Ampiah, and his team. Discussions centered on strengthening the UniPod’s role as a national engine for innovation, entrepreneurship, and skills development. “We explored ways to ensure alignment between the UNDP Timbuktoo UniPod and our national priorities in science, technology, and innovation as drivers of industrialization,” said Minister Wurie. “Our discussions also focused on practical strategies to deepen collaboration and empower university ecosystems to research, innovate, and scale homegrown solutions to local challenges.” During the visit, the Minister and the UNDP team toured the UniPod facility, which she noted continues to demonstrate its value as a hub for hands‑on training, creativity, and youth‑led problem‑solving. “I welcome UNDP’s steadfast commitment to expanding inclusive pathways for young people to acquire relevant skills, drive innovation, and transition into dignified employment,” Dr. Wurie added. She emphasized that the initiative is pivotal to the government’s agenda on the Big Five Game Changers. ©️ Dr. Tonya Musa Director of Communication and International Relations, University of Sierra Leon