By Sulaiman Jalloh

Dr. Bilal Philips, a global Islamic scholar, founder, and Chancellor of the International Open University (IOU), during an engagement with the Fullah Progressive Union (FPU) Sierra Leone at the union’s headquarters in Freetown on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 said that “education without ethical standards is dangerous.’’ The clergyman explained the need for an expanded Islamic education system in Sierra Leone and a shift towards creative thinking in Islamic practice while using the atomic bombings of Nagasaki and Hiroshima as examples of how knowledge can be misused when ethical standards are neglected. He noted that any knowledge that is dominated by Western civilization often lacks the moral compass necessary to guide it, urging Islamic scholars and leaders to take meaningful action and responsibility in this area. “Make use of the standard education available in Sierra Leone instead of going overseas for studies” he urged.

He, however, expressed concern over the absence of an Islamic university in the country while calling for collaboration to promote Islamic education that would integrate both religious and secular knowledge. “We must ensure that our educational institutions provide both Islamic education as a primary necessity, along with other courses as secondary,” he narrated
According to him, the number of high school students in Africa who enter university is lower than on any other continent. India, he said, is 26%, the USA 85%, and Africa, he said, is 6%.
Alhaji Umaru Sanu Barrie, President of Fullah Progressive Union, while expressing gratitude for the visit, affirmed his union’s commitment to partnering with IOU to promote Islamic education in the country. Barrie emphasized the Union’s willingness to support efforts and help improve educational opportunities in the country, especially in the area of giving scholarships to deserving students.
Also speaking was the Vice Chancellor of the university, who provided an overview of the university’s various programs, which include science-based courses, nursing, pharmacy, public health, and postgraduate degrees, among others. He reiterated Professor Bilal’s vision of using education as a means to empower individuals and spread Islamic values through a comprehensive, modern curriculum. He disclosed that these of their students are on scholarships, and he called for more support and collaboration.
Ibrahim Bah is the representative and head of the IOU in Sierra Leone who urged the FPU to seize the opportunity for quality, practical education, saying a significant number of female students are already benefiting from its programs.
As Sierra Leone seeks to expand its educational sector, Dr. Bilal’s visit serves as a call to action for Islamic leaders and scholars to prioritize ethical knowledge and education for the betterment of society.