By: Precious Miracle Kargbo (Snr)
Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE) has outlined a detailed roadmap to operationalize the AI-driven Future Learning Institute (FLI), following a strategic engagement with Agilix Labs. The move advances the implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in the United Kingdom in May 2025.
According to officials, MTHE will lead the establishment of the institute’s domestic governance and quality assurance framework. Under the MoU, Agilix Labs will provide core technology, training, and operational support, while MTHE will be responsible for creating a local partner organization to host, manage, and regulate FLI activities in Sierra Leone.
The Chief Technical and Higher Education Officer, Josephus Brimah, stated that the ministry has already conducted technical site visits, including pilot locations in Kono District, to assess readiness and identify capacity gaps. He added that MTHE will spearhead accreditation processes through the national qualifications authority and ensure that all curricula meet Sierra Leonean standards before scaling programmes.
“The Ministry will establish the governance structure for the local host, coordinate accreditation with regulatory bodies, and oversee the integration of FLI programmes into both formal and non-formal education pathways,” Dr. Brimah said, noting that staff training and compliance checks are immediate priorities.
The Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Haja Ramatulai Wurie, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to strong institutional oversight and a nationwide rollout. She revealed plans to map existing community learning facilities across all districts to serve as satellite centres for the institute. An initial pilot phase will test hybrid learning delivery and monitoring systems.
The minister also confirmed that the implementation roadmap will be presented at the Education World Forum in London to attract technical partners and secure financing.
MTHE Permanent Secretary, Mohamed Sheick Kargbo, said the ministry will coordinate infrastructure assessments and collaborate with the Ministry of Telecommunications to address internet connectivity challenges, particularly in rural areas. He emphasized the need for offline-capable learning modules and standard operating procedures for centres with limited or inconsistent connectivity.
Deputy Minister Sarjoh Aziz-Kamara noted that MTHE will conduct a formal review of the MoU to clarify financial obligations, revenue-sharing arrangements for the local host, data protection in line with national laws, and timelines for accreditation. The ministry will also draft a regulatory memorandum defining the roles of MTHE, the national accreditation authority, and the proposed local partner.
From the private sector side, Agilix Labs CEO Curt Allen and Director of International AI Programs Mark Luetzelschwab pledged continued technical support, including deployment of AI-powered courseware, training for local tutors, and adaptation of platforms for low-bandwidth and mobile-only users. Director of Studies Mustapha A. Turay highlighted the success of mobile-first learning modules already piloted in remote communities.
MTHE stated that the next steps include formalizing governance for the local host within 60 days, launching a pilot phase in five districts, completing accreditation for initial programmes, and presenting funding proposals at the Education World Forum. These measures, the ministry said, will demonstrate its active leadership in implementing the FLI while ensuring compliance with Sierra Leone’s regulatory and quality standards.