By Jensen Brian Abass Cummings

The Role of the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) in Ensuring Quality Higher Education in Sierra Leone

In recent years, Sierra Leone has experienced a rise in the number of graduates, which is a positive development for the country’s economy and education system. The demand for tertiary education is growing rapidly, and with it, the number of universities offering diverse courses has expanded. While this growth is commendable, it brings to light a crucial concern: Are these universities equipped with the necessary facilities, resources, and qualified staff to effectively deliver the courses they offer? This question needs immediate attention, and it is the responsibility of the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) to ensure that universities meet the standards required for quality education.

The Need for Proper Monitoring and Assessment

The rapid increase in the number of graduates in Sierra Leone is an encouraging sign, signaling that more individuals are gaining access to higher education. This growth promises to boost the country’s workforce, contributing to improved economic performance. However, as we celebrate these advancements, we must ask ourselves whether our universities have the proper infrastructure to support this influx of students and courses.

Many universities in Sierra Leone have expanded their academic offerings, introducing new courses to keep up with the demand for education. However, research indicates that many of these institutions lack the necessary facilities to deliver these programs effectively. A serious concern is that some institutions are offering programs for which they do not have the qualified staff or resources to provide a meaningful educational experience.

For example, students often report a disconnect between the quality of education they receive and the degrees they obtain. Graduates have been heard saying, “Bo me or we nor go lectures better sef, and we don graduate with a Bachelors or Master’s Degree,” meaning that the quality of education they received did not align with the qualifications they earned. This raises a critical issue: Are these universities truly prepared to offer the programs they claim to, or are they merely expanding their offerings to attract more students, without the proper capacity to do so?

The Importance of Qualified Lecturers and Adequate Space

One of the most fundamental requirements for effective teaching and learning is the presence of qualified lecturers. In many universities, especially newly established ones, there is a shortage of highly qualified academic staff. While some institutions may have begun offering degree courses just a few years ago, they are already expanding to offer multiple master’s programs and specialized courses. This rapid expansion, while admirable, often comes at the cost of academic rigor and quality. Without a pool of qualified lecturers, students may be deprived of the education they deserve.

Moreover, physical space plays a critical role in the learning process. Many universities are struggling to accommodate the growing number of students. Lecture halls, seminar rooms, and administrative offices are often overcrowded, making it difficult to provide personalized attention to students. As universities expand their student numbers and academic offerings, it becomes increasingly important to ensure that there is adequate space to accommodate this growth. This is not just about having more buildings but ensuring that the facilities are conducive to learning and teaching.

TEC’s Role in Oversight and Accountability

To address these challenges, the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) must take a more proactive role in monitoring and evaluating the quality of higher education in Sierra Leone. The TEC should not only approve new courses and institutions but also continuously assess the capacity of universities to deliver these programs effectively. This includes evaluating the qualifications of lecturers, the availability of learning resources, the adequacy of classroom and laboratory spaces, and the general infrastructure of the institutions.

One of the critical functions of the TEC is to set clear guidelines for the establishment of new courses and programs, ensuring that universities have the necessary staff and facilities before such programs are approved. While it is important to increase the number of graduates, it is equally important to ensure that the graduates are well-prepared and capable of contributing positively to the workforce.

Empowering the TEC for Greater Impact

For the TEC to carry out this critical role effectively, the government must empower the commission with the necessary resources and authority. The TEC needs to be adequately funded, staffed, and supported by both the government and universities themselves to ensure that quality education is consistently provided. Regular inspections and audits of university facilities and teaching standards should be conducted, and institutions that fail to meet the required standards should be held accountable.

Additionally, the government should introduce policies that encourage collaboration between universities, industry stakeholders, and the TEC to ensure that the educational offerings align with the needs of the economy. By doing so, Sierra Leone can not only increase the number of graduates but also ensure that these graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to drive the country’s development forward.

The increasing number of graduates in Sierra Leone is a positive sign, but it should not overshadow the need for quality education. The Tertiary Education Commission must take a more hands-on approach to monitor universities and ensure they have the necessary facilities and qualified staff to deliver the courses they offer. The TEC’s role is essential in maintaining high standards in higher education, and the government must provide the necessary support to enable the commission to carry out its duties effectively. By prioritizing quality over quantity, Sierra Leone can build a strong, skilled workforce capable of contributing to the country’s sustainable development and economic growth.