By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
Sierra Leone has taken a significant step towards strengthening its healthcare education with the official commissioning of the “Dr. Fatima Maada Bio College of Health Sciences and Allied Technology” in Waterloo.
The institution, inaugurated by First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio on February 24, 2025, is expected to play a crucial role in training the next generation of healthcare professionals.
The establishment of the college aligns with President Julius Maada Bio’s vision for human capital development, particularly in the health sector. Speaking at the event, the First Lady expressed deep honour at having the institution named after her, reaffirming her commitment to advancing education in Sierra Leone.
“This college will serve as a hub of excellence, equipping young Sierra Leoneans with the skills needed to excel in healthcare,” Dr. Bio stated. She emphasised that investing in healthcare education is essential for tackling the country’s medical workforce shortage and improving health outcomes nationwide.
The launch of the college comes at a time when Sierra Leone is striving to bridge critical gaps in its healthcare system. The country has faced persistent shortages of trained medical professionals, making institutions like this a vital addition to national development efforts.
The First Lady commended the college’s founders, faculty, and stakeholders for their dedication to creating a learning environment that fosters academic and professional excellence. She also underscored the importance of equipping students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare sector.
Beyond healthcare education, Dr. Bio’s Hands Off Our Girls initiative remains a key part of her advocacy, tackling issues such as child marriage and gender-based violence, which hinder young girls’ access to education. The First Lady emphasised that empowering young women through education and social protection initiatives is essential for national progress.
The commissioning of the Dr. Fatima Maada Bio College of Health Sciences and Allied Technology marks a milestone in Sierra Leone’s pursuit of quality education and improved healthcare services. With continued government support and strategic partnerships, the college is poised to produce a highly skilled medical workforce that will contribute to national and regional health advancements.
As Sierra Leone pushes forward on its development path, the First Lady reaffirmed her commitment to nurturing initiatives that empower the youth, ensuring that education remains a key driver of progress and transformation.
