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By: Alhaji Umaru Gbow

Credit: Public Relations Assistant, ÍáÍáÂþ»­ University ( Ayuba Koroma)

ÍáÍáÂþ»­ University 24th October, 2024- Ekhlas Solar Electrical and Installation Company has on Thursday, October 24, 2024, met with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of ÍáÍáÂþ»­ University’s Bo Campus and the Pro-Vice-Chancellor of ÍáÍáÂþ»­ University, Professor Mohamed Syed Fofanah to provide an update on the ongoing solar training program at Towama. The company, represented by CEO Sheik Mohamed T. Kamara, Engineer Peter Bindi, and Project Manager Yayah Kamanda, also donated ten solar streetlights to the Campus.

The Project Manager informed the DVC that 80 trainees, including 20 ÍáÍáÂþ»­ University staff members and 60 community members, are currently enrolled in the competency-based training. Of the 80 trainees, 20 are female. The training focuses primarily on hands-on skills, with 80% of the assessment being practical and 20% theoretical. The program is delivered in Creole, and the final assessments will be overseen by ÍáÍáÂþ»­ University to ensure quality.

Mr. Kamanda highlighted the successful launch of the program, which has included theoretical and practical sessions, as well as industrial visits to Kailahun and Kenema. He expressed the company's desire for ÍáÍáÂþ»­ University to be involved in the certification process, with certificates signed by the Vice-Chancellor and Registrar. He also proposed making the training a permanent program and establishing a formal partnership with ÍáÍáÂþ»­ for future operations, including recruitment and assessments.

In response, Professor Mohamed Syed Fofanah praised the company’s efforts, noting that the report was comprehensive and aligned with the University’s expectations. The DVC explained that, as a training program, it must go through Senate and Court approvals before becoming a permanent fixture. He emphasized that while the University would own the project, the program could benefit both the institution and the company.

The DVC acknowledged the importance of empowering rural communities and noted the positive feedback from trainees. He assured Ekhlas Solar that the report would be submitted to the Vice-Chancellor for further discussion.

The meeting marked a step toward strengthening the partnership between Ekhlas Solar and ÍáÍáÂþ»­ University.

Public Relations Unit, ÍáÍáÂþ»­ University

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