By: Saidu Jalloh
On the second day of the 2025 Sierra Leone Innovates Digital Government Summit, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh officially launched the National Tech Job Fair a flagship government initiative aimed at tackling youth unemployment by connecting young professionals with opportunities in the fast-growing technology sector.
The event forms part of a broader national strategy to create 75,000 tech jobs and 500,000 jobs overall, as Sierra Leone advances its digital transformation agenda. Addressing a packed audience of students, job seekers, government officials, and development partners, the Vice President described the fair as a crucial bridge between education and employment.
“It’s not just about learning anymore; it’s about applying knowledge in the real world,” Dr. Jalloh said. “The Tech Job Fair is designed to help our youth move from the classroom into the workforce.”
Dr. Jalloh reflected on the government’s sustained investment in human capital development, which began with the 2018 People’s Manifesto. Since then, the national health budget has nearly doubled from 6% to 11.2%, and over 1.2 million children are now enrolled in school. Encouragingly, girls are staying in school longer than ever before.
However, the Vice President stressed that education alone is not enough. Young people must have access to meaningful job opportunities that allow them to apply their skills. The Tech Job Fair is a direct response to this challenge, bringing together employers and potential employees in one collaborative space.
He also highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at: Expanding internet access, Boosting digital learning environments, Enforcing intellectual property rights for young innovators
“Sierra Leone is now building digital learning environments that rival those in cities like Washington or New York,” he remarked.
Dr. Jalloh expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation, as well as private sector partners and international stakeholders, for their collaborative efforts in organizing the event. He emphasized that cross-sector partnerships are essential for creating sustainable change.
Over the next two days, the summit will feature: Hands-on training sessions, Networking events, Live recruitment opportunities with companies actively hiring in the tech industry.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Jalloh encouraged young people to seize the moment and assured them of the government’s ongoing commitment to building a future where every Sierra Leonean youth has access to quality jobs and the opportunity to thrive.
“The digital era is here,” he said. “And our youth must be ready not just to participate but to lead.”
The Tech Job Fair marks a pivotal step in Sierra Leone’s journey toward a more inclusive, innovative, and digitally empowered economy.