BY: MOHAMED SAHR
In a significant development for the College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences (COMAHS), Minister of Health Dr. Austin Demby officially broke ground on Thursday, May 23, 2024, for the construction of a cutting-edge basic sciences facility. This $3.5 million project, funded by the Government of Sierra Leone and international partners, aims to address the pressing infrastructural needs of the institution.
Dr. Demby praised the government’s commitment and the support from international partners, emphasizing that the new facility will be pivotal for medical education in Sierra Leone. “This basic sciences facility will be a cornerstone for the practice of the medical profession, equipped with numerous modern amenities including an electronic platform to enhance student development,” said Dr. Demby. He highlighted that the facility will enable course exchanges with universities globally, helping to bridge the gap in medical education standards.
The construction of this facility is expected to take between twelve to eighteen months. Dr. Demby reaffirmed his dedication to collaborating with the Ministry of Higher and Technical Education to further develop COMAHS, stressing the importance of providing additional infrastructure to support the college’s growth. “We are committed to ensuring your pursuit of excellence reaches the highest levels,” he stated.
This project is part of a broader strategy to improve medical infrastructure across Sierra Leone. Future plans include constructing a 300-bed ultra-modern medical campus between Bo and Kenema and a modern hospital in Kerry town. These projects aim to enhance the capabilities of district hospitals nationwide, offering better spaces for doctors to practice.
Aziz Sarjoh Kamara, Deputy Minister of Higher and Technical Education, highlighted this development as a landmark achievement under President Bio’s leadership, underscoring the crucial role of the health sector in human capital development and the necessity for substantial investment.
Professor Mohamed Samai, Head of COMAHS, described the new building as a comprehensive basic sciences structure designed to foster mentorship and empower graduates. He emphasized its potential to mitigate brain drain and bolster student capacities. The facility will feature a mini conference room, lecture theatre, classrooms, wet lab, skills lab, electronic training room, staff rooms, and offices.
Prof. Samai called on the government for continued support in developing further infrastructure at COMAHS, reinforcing the institution’s role as a center of excellence in medical education not only in Sierra Leone but globally.
