By Ibrahim Abdulai Kargbo
In a groundbreaking stride toward advancing digital literacy and innovation in Sierra Leone’s education sector, the Tech4Teachers Project—an initiative implemented by the Sierra Research and Innovation Hub (SiRI Hub) has successfully concluded its first phase in Mile 91, Tonkolili District.
Supported by Global Changemakers, the project trained and certified 40 teachers in essential digital competencies, including computer literacy, smartphone proficiency, and the application of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in classroom teaching. The initiative underscores SiRI Hub’s commitment to equipping educators with 21st-century skills that enhance teaching quality, foster innovation, and bridge the digital divide within schools.
The Tech4Teachers Project officially commenced with an Opening Ceremony on 20th September 2025 at Central University, setting the tone for a transformative capacity-building program. Over the following three days, 22nd to 24th September 2025—teachers participated in intensive, hands-on digital training sessions led by experienced facilitators.
The sessions focused on integrating technology into lesson planning, utilizing digital tools for interactive teaching, and exploring how artificial intelligence can enhance learning outcomes. Teachers also received guidance on responsible digital practices, online collaboration, and using technology to promote inclusivity and engagement in the classroom.
The Closing and Certification Ceremony, held on 18th October 2025, marked the successful conclusion of the project’s training phase. Participants who completed the full program received Certificates of Participation in recognition of their dedication and learning achievement.
The event brought together a cross-section of education stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (Tonkolili District), Sierra Leone Teachers Union (SLTU), Yoni/Mile 91, Tonkolili District Council, Central University, and Concern Worldwide Mile 91, as well as members of the media such as Radio Gbafeth and News Journal.
Distinguished keynote speakers—Mr. Sheku Putka Kamara, Lecturer at Fourah Bay College; Mr. Lansana Amara, Assistant Director at the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (Tonkolili District); and Mr. David S. Kamara, Chairman of SLTU Yoni/Mile 91 Branch—underscored the importance of empowering teachers as digital leaders. They emphasized that integrating technology into teaching is crucial for nurturing creativity, problem-solving, and innovation among students.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Ibrahim Abdulai Kargbo, Tech4Teachers Project Lead and Executive Director of the Sierra Research and Innovation Hub, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all guests, facilitators, and participants who made the initiative a success.
“Tech4Teachers is not just about teaching digital skills—it’s about reimagining education through technology,” Kargbo noted. “We are proud to see how teachers have embraced digital tools as catalysts for innovation and transformation in their schools.”
To sustain the project’s impact, the Sierra Research and Innovation Hub have launched a sustainable initiative to establish Digital Tech School Clubs in all participating schools. These clubs will serve as innovation hubs where teachers and students collaborate to explore technology-driven solutions to educational challenges.
From 20th to 22nd October 2025, the Sierra Research and Innovation Hub team successfully conducted a three-day school outreach and Digital Tech club inauguration tour, during which schools across Mile 91 warmly welcomed the initiative. The clubs will support continuous learning, mentorship, and digital creativity, ensuring that the benefits of the Tech4Teachers Project extend beyond the training room and into everyday classroom practice.
The Tech4Teachers Project stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in strengthening Sierra Leone’s education system. It directly supports the country’s Education Sector Plan and contributes to the global drive toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) by ensuring that teachers are equipped to deliver inclusive, equitable, and technology-enabled learning experiences.
By bridging the gap between education and technology, the Tech4Teachers Project has set a new standard for empowering educators and inspiring the next generation of digital learners. Its success demonstrates that when teachers are empowered with the right tools, they become agents of transformation, shaping classrooms that are not only connected but future-ready.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Friday, 31st October 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
