*FBC UNVEILS STUNNING MINI STADIUM DESIGN FOR BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION*

28th June 2026

The designs are complete, the Bill of Quantities is being finalized, and a bold new vision is rapidly taking shape. Fourah Bay College (FBC) is preparing to transform the historic Havelock Field into a breathtaking architectural and sporting landmark as part of its Bicentennial legacy project, while the University Administration intensifies its appeal for national and international support to bring the dream to reality.

As Sierra Leone prepares to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the oldest institution of higher learning in Sub-Saharan Africa, the proposed mini stadium stands as one of the most ambitious and transformative projects envisioned for the Bicentennial celebrations in February 2027.

Now, Fourah Bay College is determined to elevate the standard even further by delivering a multi-purpose facility that combines sporting excellence, academic prestige, and national pride.

The proposed Havelock Mini Stadium is designed to serve far beyond football and athletics. It will function as a dynamic public space for university congregations, graduation ceremonies, conferences, cultural events, concerts, and national celebrations , transforming Havelock Field into a year-round centre of activity and community engagement.

*A Masterpiece of Modern Design*

The architectural renderings reveal a facility of remarkable beauty and contemporary elegance.

The stadium’s sweeping oval structure blends naturally with the surrounding hills and greenery of Mount Aureol, creating a harmonious relationship between modern infrastructure and the natural landscape. Elegant green-and-white seating tiers , reflecting the proud colours of Fourah Bay College , curve gracefully around the arena, while the carefully planned open-air design allows for natural ventilation and uninterrupted panoramic views.

At the heart of the complex lies a pristine natural grass pitch complemented by modern athletics tracks designed to international standards. The symmetry of the arena, the sleek perimeter fencing, and the integrated support structures create a visually striking environment that balances simplicity, functionality, and prestige.

The surrounding landscape further enhances the aesthetic appeal of the project. Rolling green hills, mature trees, and expansive skies frame the stadium beautifully, giving the entire complex a serene and inspiring atmosphere that reflects the timeless character of Fourah Bay College itself.

*More Than a Stadium*

This is not simply a sporting facility. It is a comprehensive campus transformation project.

The proposed development includes modern hostel accommodations, recreational courts, fitness and wellness spaces, changing rooms, administrative offices, and support facilities designed to create a vibrant ecosystem for student life, athletics, and public engagement.

The project aims to position Fourah Bay College as a leading centre for university sports and recreational development in Sierra Leone and the wider region.

By integrating sports, accommodation, recreation, and event, hosting capabilities into one master plan, the Havelock redevelopment will create a sustainable and multifunctional facility capable of serving generations of students and the wider public.

*A Passionate Appeal for Support*

With the technical design phase nearing completion, the University Administration , led by the Vice Chancellor and Principal of the University of Sierra Leone, *Professor Aiah R. Lebbie*, and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Fourah Bay College, *Professor Andrew Baio*, is making a strong appeal to government, alumni, development partners, the private sector, and the Sierra Leonean diaspora to rally behind the project.

“This is not merely a construction project; it is the cornerstone of our next 200 years,” the administration emphasized. *“Havelock Field has remained part of the heartbeat of this institution for generations. We now have the vision, the expertise, and the determination to transform it into a modern legacy facility worthy of Fourah Bay College’s history and future.”*

The administration stressed that the project is both visionary and bankable, designed not only as a symbol of national pride but also as a sustainable investment capable of generating long-term revenue through sporting events, conferences, graduations, hospitality services, and public functions.

*A Legacy for Future Generations*

As Fourah Bay College approaches its Bicentennial milestone, the proposed mini stadium represents more than bricks and concrete. It symbolizes renewal, ambition, resilience, and a renewed commitment to excellence.

It is a project designed to inspire future generations of students, unite alumni across the world, and create a modern platform where sports, education, culture, and national identity converge.

The Bicentenary comes only once. The opportunity to build a transformational legacy for Sierra Leone’s premier institution of higher learning is now.

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