By Emma Black
In a moment filled with hope and historic significance, Thursday, May 29, 2025 thousands of jubilant students and staff of Njala University turned out to welcome Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, chairman of the energy governance coordinating group (EGCG) and the presidential Initiative on climate change, renewable Energy and food security (PI-CREF), as he paid a landmark visit to the site of a new 1-megawatt solar power plant.
The project funded under the World Bank’s Regional Emergency Solar Power Intervention Project (RESPITE) marks a major milestone in the country’s transition to clean energy and is expected to significantly improve electricity access for both Njala University and the surrounding Mokonde community.
Amid banners of appreciation, loud cheers, and a celebratory atmosphere, Dr. Yumkella was welcomed as a champion of progress and innovation, representing his Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, he affirmed that the RESPITE initiative is a core element of the government’s national energy strategy.
This isn’t just about lighting classrooms it’s about powering the future of education, research, and innovation in Sierra Leone, said Dr. Yumkella. President Bio is committed to ensuring sustainable, affordable, and reliable energy for every corner of our nation starting with our institutions of learning.
The solar power facility, expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2026, is designed to deliver consistent energy to the university and surrounding communities. Once operational, it could save Njala University over $40,000 per month in electricity costs.
The contractor on site reported steady progress and assured stakeholders of timely delivery. Land for the project has been secured by Njala University, making this one of the most significant university-led renewable energy undertakings in Sierra Leone’s history.
Vice Chancellor and Principal, Professor Bashiru Koroma, extended heartfelt gratitude to President Bio, the World Bank, and Dr. Yumkella, calling the project a beacon of hope for an institution long burdened by power outages, Dr. Yumkella once led the Njala Students’ Union. Today, he returns not just as a distinguished guest, but as a visionary leader bringing lasting change, said Prof. Koroma during a public lecture in the university’s Multipurpose Hall.
The public lecture, themed Energy Transition and Human Capital Development, explored the vital role of energy access in educational advancement and national growth. Dr. Yumkella’s keynote address traced his personal journey from a student at Njala to a globally recognized energy expert underscoring the limitless potential of Sierra Leonean youth.
I never studied energy formally, he told the audience, but life demanded that I learn. Today, I help shape global energy policies, you, too, can exceed your limitations if you remain focused, disciplined, and believe in yourselves.
He also outlined key national energy initiatives, including, the Nant Energy Project, which aims to generate 105MW for the national grid, Mission 300 Compact, a forward-looking strategy to modernize Sierra Leone’s energy infrastructure and dramatically increase power generation by 2026. Dr. Yumkella stressed that energy transition is not a political event, but a long-term, country-driven process that demands national commitment, innovation, and skilled leadership.
Addressing the students directly, Dr. Yumkella encouraged them to pursue careers in renewable energy, solar technology, and sustainability sectors critical to Sierra Leone’s development.
Be ambitious, but stay grounded. Let humility and discipline shape your journey. these values will carry you further than arrogance ever could, he advised.
Hon. Sarjoh Aziz-Kamara, who was also present, commended the initiative and reiterated its alignment with President Bio’s flagship Human Capital Development agenda, this project is about more than electricity it’s about powering ideas, innovation, and national transformation,” he said.
For Njala University, which has endured decades of unreliable electricity, the moment was nothing short of historic. For over 40 years, limited power has disrupted learning, research, and student life, the solar project has rekindled hope and sparked a new sense of purpose among students, this is a new dawn, said Mariama Kamara, a third-year agricultural economics student, no more blackouts during exams, we feel seen, heard, and inspired.”
The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, students expressed both gratitude and curiosity about the path ahead. Dr. Yumkella responded with openness, reinforcing the government’s commitment to inclusive, sustainable development.
From the dusty paths of Mokonde to the global stage of clean energy innovation, Njala University now stands at the forefront of Sierra Leone’s energy transformation illuminated not only by solar panels, but by the dreams and determination of its students and leaders.
Copy right –Printed in the Expo Times News on Monday, June 2nd, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
