2/3/26

Newly admitted students of the College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences (COMAHS), University of Sierra Leone, were officially welcomed into the institution during a matriculation ceremony held on Monday, 2nd March 2026. The event, which formalized the enrollment of the latest cohort, took place at the College campus in Kossoh Town.
The ceremony was graced by the Pro Vice Chancellor of the University of Sierra Leone, Professor James Russell, who is also the Deputy Vice Chancellor of COMAHS. Professor Russell stood in for the Vice Chancellor, Professor Aiah Lebbie, who was unavoidably absent. He was joined by the University Registrar, Mr. Munda Lebbie, who presided over the formal presentation of the matriculants.

In a time-honoured tradition, Mr. Munda Lebbie read the citation before administering the oath. In a unified voice, the students swore to abide by all rules, regulations, and statutes governing the University. By completing this oath, they were formally admitted into the academic community.

Officially welcoming the new students, the Pro Vice Chancellor underscored the gravity of the path they have chosen. “You are not just students; you are future custodians of the nation’s health,” Professor Russell told the gathering. “This profession demands more than just intellect; it requires a deep-seated passion and an unwavering commitment to the highest ethical standards.” He issued a firm warning that the institution would not tolerate any form of indiscipline, stating plainly, “COMAHS has a zero-tolerance policy for examination malpractice. Let there be no misunderstanding on that front.”

The Registrar, Mr. Munda Lebbie, highlighted the competitive nature of the admissions process for programs in Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Laboratory Sciences. Addressing the students, he noted their achievement in securing a place. “You have been selected from a vast pool of applicants and are truly the ‘crème de la crème’,” Mr. Lebbie remarked. “With this great honour comes great responsibility. I encourage you to remain focused and committed to your academic pursuits from this day forward.”

As a final act of enrollment, the students were invited to sign the official register, a historic record that formally marks their entry into the College. The matriculation ceremony, which signifies the granting of legal status to attend classes, access facilities, and sit for examinations, concluded on a high note. Students, staff, and faculty mingled, with the newly admitted cohort taking pictures and happily interacting with their new colleagues and mentors.

© Dr. Tonya Musa
Director of Communication and International Relations, University of Sierra Leone