By: Thaimu Bai Sesay
In a powerful demonstration of Sierra Leone’s dedication to technological progress, the Minister of Communication Technology and Innovation, Madam Salima Monorma Bah, reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and technological advancement during the recent STEM Club Presentation event.
Organized by the alumni of Sierra Leone Grammar School (SLGS) and Annie Walsh Memorial School (AWMS), the event took place on Saturday, 24th August 2024, drawing attention from various stakeholders passionate about the nation’s technological future.
Speaking to an enthusiastic audience, Minister Bah highlighted the remarkable success of the Sierra Leone Innovates Tech Summit held in June 2024. The summit, which showcased groundbreaking solutions developed by young innovators, was hailed as a milestone aligning perfectly with the government’s vision for the country. The Minister emphasized that President Bio has placed technology at the forefront of the Big Five agenda—a strategic plan aimed at driving Sierra Leone’s development and boosting its global competitiveness.
Minister Bah expressed profound appreciation for the collaboration between the private sector and program organizers, underscoring the critical role they play in empowering the youth. “Supporting our young people in driving technological advancement is not just an option; it’s a necessity for sustainable development,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of youth engagement in shaping the nation’s future.
The event also included a visit to the STEM Club’s training site, where students honed their skills in coding, robotics, entrepreneurship, and graphic design. The training site, brimming with energy and creativity, served as a testament to the potential of Sierra Leone’s next generation of tech leaders.
A particularly heartwarming moment occurred when a student from Sierra Leone Grammar School presented Minister Bah with a framed memento, symbolizing the deep connection between the youth and the government’s vision for technological advancement. Accepting the gift with gratitude, Minister Bah reiterated her unwavering belief in the power of Sierra Leonean innovators. “Our future is in good hands,” she remarked, reflecting on the talent and passion she witnessed.
As the event concluded, it was clear that the commitment to technology and innovation in Sierra Leone is not just a government agenda item—it’s a collective mission, driven by the dreams and ambitions of the nation’s youth, and supported by a community that believes in the transformative power of technology.
