Government Announces New Skills Academy to Boost Youth Employment

The Government of Sierra Leone has announced plans to establish a new skills academy in partnership with international and local institutions as part of efforts to expand job opportunities for young people.

The initiative was highlighted at the Government Weekly Press Conference, where officials said the programme is aimed at strengthening technical and vocational training to improve youth employability.

Presidential Spokesman Alpha Khan explained that the project involves a partnership between Freetown Polytechnic, Zhengzhou Railway Technician College, and China Railway Seventh Group to establish an Excellence Skills Academy.

He noted that the initiative is designed to equip young people with practical skills in technical fields, in line with the Government’s broader commitment to job creation.

Dr. Khan said the programme forms part of a wider national agenda targeting up to 500,000 jobs, stressing that skills development remains central to sustainable employment growth.

He encouraged young people to take advantage of technical and vocational training opportunities, describing them as key pathways to employment and national development.

Officials say the skills academy will focus on hands-on training, industry partnerships, and employment readiness, aimed at bridging the gap between education and the labour market.

The initiative is expected to contribute significantly to expanding youth employment opportunities and strengthening Sierra Leone’s workforce capacity.