By: Mohamed Abu Conteh
The Human Kinetics and Sport Department at Fourah Bay College, in collaboration with the Sports Writers Association of Sierra Leone (SWASAL), proudly certified 13 sports journalists from across the country on September 27, 2025.
This two-week short course focused on sports ethics and administration, equipping journalists with the essential skills needed for professional reporting on sports both within Sierra Leone and internationally.
During the certification ceremony, Francis Alpha, Head of the Human Kinetics and Sport Department, praised the rigorous training the journalists had undergone over the past two weeks. He emphasized that this course was timely, preparing journalists to elevate their professionalism in sports reporting. Alpha also stressed the critical importance of ethical reporting in the current sports journalism landscape.
Sahr Morris Junior, President of SWASAL, expressed his pride and fulfillment at witnessing the graduation of the first cohort from the course. Since taking office, Morris has prioritized capacity building within the association, and he believes this milestone is a reflection of significant progress in sports journalism in Sierra Leone. He urged local journalists to effectively tell Sierra Leone’s stories and encouraged the graduates to apply their newfound knowledge in their work.
Morris also revealed plans to collaborate with university authorities to launch a Diploma in Sport Administration for the 2025/2026 academic year, expecting a higher number of participants in the next program.
Alhaji Manika Kamara, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), shared his pride in attending the certification ceremony. He noted that while the completion of the course marked an important achievement, it also represented the beginning of a new chapter in professional sports reporting.
Representing the newly certified SWASAL members comprising one woman and nine men from both the Eastern and Western regions Hilton John of Star Radio & Television and Bernard Turay of the Awoko Newspaper described the course as “intensive and insightful.” They encouraged their colleagues to seize similar opportunities when they arise in the future.
John added that the course had significantly boosted his confidence and professional perspective, particularly praising the sessions on media ethics and integrity, which have inspired him to adhere to the highest standards of journalism.
This initiative is part of broader efforts to professionalize sports journalism in Sierra Leone, linking academic learning with practical reporting experience. The graduation ceremony saw 12 men and one woman completing the 14-day program.