EBKUST clears the air

By Kadiatu Sankoh

On 22nd October 2024, the Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology (EBKUST) held a press conference at the University Hall in Makeni to address mounting concerns over the 2023/24 assessment grades, examination results, and the findings of the University Court’s investigation committee. The event saw participation from key stakeholders, including representatives from the Office of National Security, senior university administrators, the 4th Infantry Battalion Brigade Commander, the Commander of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), Inspector General of Police Mena, immigration officials, students, and other relevant parties.

In his opening remarks, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of EBKUST, Edwin Momoh, explained that the press briefing was convened to address the widespread misgivings and misinterpretations surrounding the roles and responsibilities of the university. He emphasized the critical role of education in national development, recalling President Julius Maada Bio’s commitment to education as a flagship initiative during his first term. Momoh stressed that education is the foundation of progress, especially in the context of the current “Feed Salone” agenda.

As the Vice-Chancellor of EBKUST, which serves not just the northern region, but Sierra Leone as a whole, Momoh affirmed his duty to uphold academic standards and produce competent graduates. The meeting, he stated, was called to engage in a collaborative discussion to resolve ongoing issues and clarify misconceptions.

During the press conference, an audio recording circulating on social media was played, which had prompted the urgent need for the briefing. The recording accused the Vice-Chancellor of attempting to undermine Sierra Leone’s education system. Momoh expressed deep disappointment at these allegations, describing them as distressing and unfounded. He went on to highlight the university’s achievements during his tenure and presented evidence of ongoing issues related to assessment grades, fraud, and malpractice.

Momoh provided context by discussing the University Act, which was amended in 2018 to establish EBKUST as Sierra Leone’s third public university. The Act grants the University Court the authority to establish rules and regulations, with the Chancellor serving as the Chairman of the Court. The Vice-Chancellor explained that both students and staff are governed by the decisions of the University Court, which has the power to make final rulings on administrative and academic matters.

He pointed out that the university’s policies, including examination guidelines, are publicly available on the institution’s website and cannot be altered or manipulated. One of the main concerns addressed was the university’s examination policies, particularly regarding continuous assessment. Momoh revealed that continuous assessment had been suspended due to widespread abuse, including incidents of grade manipulation, fraud, and malpractice. He cited evidence of students being awarded marks for minimal effort, as well as cases of bribery and forged documents.

To maintain the integrity of the examination process, the University Court recommended stricter measures, including the exclusion of continuous assessment. Momoh emphasized the importance of upholding academic standards, and reassured students that the administration would work collaboratively with them to ensure fairness.

Brigadier General Kemoh Sesay, Commander of the North-East Region, expressed gratitude to the stakeholders and students for their cooperation and calm during the ongoing issues. He shared his disappointment in hearing about the extent of the malpractice surrounding continuous assessment, and urged the students to refrain from participating in such activities. Brigadier General Sesay also extended his support to the Vice-Chancellor, acknowledging the challenges faced by the administration.

He appealed to the university administration to reconsider their position on the continuous assessment issue and ensure that those involved are held accountable. Sesay further urged the students to remain disciplined, and assured them that efforts would be made to resolve the situation fairly.

The press conference concluded with a commitment from the university administration to continue working towards solutions that benefit both students and the institution, while ensuring that academic integrity remains a top priority.