*ROUND-TABLE DISCUSSION ON ACADEMIC COLLABORATION UNDERWAY AT USL*

25 June 2026

A high-level round-table discussion bringing together staff and faculty of the Comprehensive International College (CIC), University of Sierra Leone (USL), and 21 visiting professors from the Africa-American Male Educational Network and Development College is currently underway at the DVC Conference Room, 4th Floor, Ekundayo Thompson Building, IPAM.

The meeting, chaired by the Pro Vice Chancellor of the University of Sierra Leone, Professor James Russell, commenced at 12:15 pm on Thursday, 25 June 2026.

At the start of proceedings, Professor Russell conveyed apologies on behalf of the Vice Chancellor and Principal, Professor Aiah Lebbie, who was unavoidably absent due to other official engagements. The Chair welcomed participants and emphasised the importance of strengthening academic cooperation, international partnerships, and institutional development through meaningful engagement with the visiting delegation.

In his remarks, the Dean of Postgraduate Studies, Professor Ronnie Frazer-Williams, provided an overview of Sierra Leone’s academic trajectory, particularly focusing on the 6‑3‑3‑4 education system. He explained the evolution of the country’s educational structure and highlighted the role of higher education institutions in advancing research, innovation, and human capital development.

The meeting also featured introductions of representatives from CIC and members of the visiting academic delegation. Discussions are centred on collaborative opportunities between USL, CIC, and the Africa-American Male Educational Network and Development College, with emphasis on academic exchange programmes, joint research initiatives, capacity building, and faculty development.

The visiting professors are currently making presentations and sharing perspectives on possible areas of partnership that could enhance academic excellence and global engagement for both institutions.

The engagement is expected to conclude with resolutions and action points aimed at fostering sustained collaboration between the University of Sierra Leone and the visiting academic network.

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