Higher Education Ministry Suspends Financial Transactions on MMTU Accounts

The Ministry of Technical and Higher Education has directed the immediate suspension of all financial transactions on accounts belonging to Milton Margai Technical University.

In a notice dated April 15, 2026, the Ministry instructed all commercial banks holding the university’s accounts to halt withdrawals, transfers, and any outward financial transactions with immediate effect.

The directive applies to all operational, project, donor-funded, subsidiary, and affiliated accounts held in the name of or on behalf of the university. This includes accounts maintained at Sierra Leone Commercial Bank, Rokel Commercial Bank, Union Trust Bank, and other financial institutions.

According to the Ministry, the action is based on its statutory oversight mandate under the Universities Act No. 5 of 2021, which grants supervisory authority over public universities.

The decision follows the interim suspension of the university’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Dr. Philip Kanu, by the Chancellor and Chairman of the University Court.

The Ministry described the move as a protective administrative measure aimed at safeguarding public funds, ensuring compliance with governance procedures, and maintaining financial accountability within the institution.

“All withdrawals, transfers, and outward financial transactions from any accounts held in the name of Milton Margai Technical University are hereby suspended with immediate effect,” the notice stated.

The directive will remain in force until further written authorization is issued by the Ministry.

The Ministry has also requested confirmation of compliance from all financial institutions and indicated that it will be notified of any transactions conducted after April 8, 2026.