Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala Esq has achieved another significant milestone in his illustrious career, demonstrating once again that determination and hard work can lead to exceptional accomplishments. As he prepares for his graduation from Harvard University on May 23, 2024, his reflections on his journey are both inspiring and motivational for young people in Sierra Leone and beyond.
Recalling his childhood in Pendembu, Kaifala shares a poignant memory of his late father, a teacher who often played Lord Laro’s “Foreign Press.” A particular line from the song struck a chord with him: “YOU KNOW OUR SCHOLARS HAVE SAT AND PASSED EVERY TEST BUT THERE IS NOTHING ABOUT THAT IN THE FOREIGN PRESS.” This line resonated deeply, igniting a lifelong ambition to excel and to challenge the notion of unrecognized African excellence on the global stage.
Commissioner Kaifala’s academic journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Representing Sierra Leone at the highest levels, he has competed with some of the world’s elite minds and emerged victorious, embodying the spirit of his ancestors, including the legendary Kai Londo. His upcoming graduation from Harvard Law School, with outstanding grades mostly comprising “H” for “Honor” (equivalent to multiple “A” grades) and several “P” for “High Pass” (equivalent to “B” grades), is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence.
Balancing his rigorous academic schedule with his demanding role as the Anti-Corruption Commissioner of Sierra Leone, along with family responsibilities and other commitments, Kaifala has proven that it is possible to achieve great things despite the challenges of adulthood. His ability to maintain top performance in such a prestigious institution at nearly 40 years old is a testament to his extraordinary dedication and intellect.
Reflecting on his academic successes, from the Sierra Leone Grammar School to Fourah Bay College, the Sierra Leone Law School, and other universities in the West, Kaifala emphasizes the importance of pushing personal boundaries and striving for excellence. His message to the youth of Sierra Leone is clear: it can be done. By sharing his journey and accomplishments, he hopes to inspire the next generation to pursue their own dreams with the same fierce competitive spirit.
Commissioner Kaifala’s achievements serve as a beacon of hope and a powerful reminder that with hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence, anything is possible. His story is not just about personal success, but about the potential for every young person in Sierra Leone to reach for gold and achieve greatness.
As he graduates from one of the world’s most prestigious universities, Francis Ben Kaifala Esq stands as a proud example of what can be achieved through education, determination, and an unyielding drive to succeed
Copyright –Published in print in Expo Times Newspaper on Friday, May 24th , 2024 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)