In a significant step toward advancing digital education in Sierra Leone, Africell Sierra Leone has officially signed a strategic partnership agreement with Freetown Polytechnic at its Jui Campus in Freetown. The landmark event marks the beginning of a collaborative effort aimed at strengthening the institution’s digital infrastructure and transforming the campus into a modern, cashless learning environment.
Representatives from both institutions gathered with enthusiasm as the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was formally signed, symbolizing a shared commitment to innovation and progress in education.
Delivering the welcome address, Martina Foday, Registrar of Freetown Polytechnic, expressed the institution’s excitement about the partnership and its far-reaching benefits. She emphasized that the agreement represents a major step toward modernizing the institution’s academic environment. According to her, the collaboration with Africell will open new avenues for digital learning, improve administrative efficiency, and provide greater access to innovative technological solutions for both staff and students.
Adding her voice to the significance of the collaboration, Dr. Fatu Taqi, Director of Talent and Creativity at Africell Sierra Leone, commended the forward-looking leadership of the institution. She highlighted the proactive vision of the campus Principal, Dr. Samba Moriba, noting that his commitment to digital transformation aligns perfectly with Africell’s mission to support innovation and technological advancement across educational institutions in the country.
As part of the partnership, Africell will provide a range of digital services designed to modernize the teaching and learning process at Freetown Polytechnic. The initiative seeks to move the institution beyond the traditional chalk-and-talk model to a more dynamic, technology-driven educational system. Through improved connectivity, digital payment systems, and innovative training tools, the collaboration is expected to enhance teacher development, increase student engagement, and better prepare graduates for participation in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
Speaking during the ceremony, Abdul Aziz Kamara, Marketing and Communications Manager of AfriMoney, underscored the importance of integrating digital financial solutions within academic institutions. He noted that the agreement will facilitate seamless financial transactions across the campus while also promoting the use of mobile financial services among students and staff. According to him, the partnership represents the beginning of a mutually beneficial relationship that will continue to grow in the years ahead.
In his remarks following the signing, the CEO of Africell Shadi Gerjawi described the agreement as a “signature of willingness,” reflecting a strong commitment by both institutions to embrace innovation. He noted that Africell has successfully partnered with several organizations across Sierra Leone and intends to replicate similar collaborative models in other academic institutions. He also highlighted the potential for broader international collaborations, including prospective engagements linked to global institutions such as the University of Oxford through Fourah Bay College. His comments reflected Africell’s broader ambition to strengthen educational development through technology.
Responding on behalf of the institution, Dr. Samba Moriba, Principal of Freetown Polytechnic, described the signing ceremony as the realization of a long-standing vision. Since assuming leadership, he explained, one of his key priorities has been the digital transformation of the campus. He expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Polytechnic Council for supporting the initiative and approving the partnership, noting that the collaboration will significantly enhance learning opportunities and improve institutional efficiency.
