By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu- Bo
The Resident Minister South, Chief John Abu, has underscored the transformative power of vocational and technical education, describing it as a crucial engine for Sierra Leone’s socio-economic advancement. He made this statement on Friday, 5th December 2025, while addressing over 1,800 matriculant trainees at the Sierra Leone Opportunity Industrialization Centre (SLOIC) in Bo during the institution’s annual matriculation ceremony.
Delivering the keynote address, Chief Abu described the new students as “a generation of hope, progress, and renewed commitment” whose training marks an important passage into national contribution and self-empowerment. He emphasized that the gathering was not merely ceremonial but a reminder of the life-changing potential of quality education.
Chief Abu noted that Sierra Leone’s middle-level manpower remains a vital pillar of national development, stressing that no country can industrialize without a strong technical workforce. “The diverse fields within middle-level manpower translate ideas into action. Technical and skills training provide the power needed to complement academic knowledge and drive national productivity,” he stated.
He further explained that when technical skills are paired with life skills, young people emerge not just as workers but as leaders capable of transforming their lives, families, and communities. He connected this year’s matriculation to President Bio’s national vision of empowering youth through skills development and urged the new trainees to seize the opportunity before them.
“Dream big,” he encouraged. “Your altitude will define your attitude.”
Earlier, SLOIC National Executive Director Ben Alieu Sei described the ceremony as a formal acceptance of students into the institution. He highlighted SLOIC’s role in strengthening human resource capacity nationwide and urged all trainees to be dedicated and disciplined in their chosen fields.
In their statements, Deputy Regional Police Commander South, Madam Fatmata Daboh, and Hon. Amie Moiba offered strong counsel to the female trainees. They warned them against substance abuse and distractions that could derail their careers.
They encouraged them to remain focused, especially during difficult moments, and to embrace their roles as future leaders and protectors of women’s empowerment.
“We stand firm in ensuring the protection and advancement of women. At the end of your training, we believe you will emerge as entrepreneurs who will help change the narrative of Sierra Leone-for your families, communities, and the nation,” they concluded.