Deputy Minister Warns Students Against Unaccredited TVET Institutions

Deputy Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Sarjoh Aziz-Kamara, has cautioned students against enrolling in unaccredited Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, warning that certificates from such institutions may not receive full recognition.

He made the statement during the Government Weekly Press Conference held on Tuesday, 4 August 2026, at the Miatta Civic Centre, where he highlighted Government’s efforts to strengthen TVET and ensure technical training programmes provide practical skills that meet national development and labour market needs.

Aziz-Kamara said Government’s investment in education goes beyond expanding access, emphasising the importance of equipping young people with industry-relevant skills that can support employment, economic growth, and national transformation.

He urged students and prospective learners to verify the accreditation status of training institutions before enrolling, noting that qualifications from unapproved providers may have limited recognition and value.

The Deputy Minister also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve TVET quality through partnerships with the private sector, industry experts, and other stakeholders. He disclosed that the Second Generation Skills Development Project, supported by the World Bank, is helping align technical training with industry demands through employer and expert involvement in curriculum development.

He further explained that Government is linking TVET programmes with national priorities under the Big Five Game Changers, particularly in agriculture, where skilled technicians are needed to maintain equipment, reduce post-harvest losses, and strengthen value chains.

Aziz-Kamara encouraged young Sierra Leoneans to take advantage of accredited skills training opportunities, stressing that the goal is to produce graduates with practical competencies that improve their employment prospects and contribute to Sierra Leone’s development.

The warning comes as Government continues efforts to reposition TVET as a key pathway for skills development, job creation, and human capital growth.