Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs
By Emma Black
Students from the Tourism Department of Milton Margai Technical University (MMTU), led by their lecturers and supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs (MTCA), have completed a three-day ecotourism field trip to Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary and several key historic and cultural attractions in Bo District.
On the 9 and the 11 May 2025 the educational tour aligns with the MTCA’s 2025 Ecotourism Strategy, which promotes a holistic approach to tourism by connecting culture, conservation, and community development. It also forms part of broader efforts to equip students with practical knowledge and real-world experience in ecotourism practices and policies.
At the heart of the trip was a guided exploration of Tiwai Island, one of Sierra Leone’s most significant biodiversity hotspots, the island offered students a rare opportunity to engage directly with nature, observe conservation practices, and understand the vital role that ecotourism plays in environmental preservation and sustainable development.
While at the sanctuary, Mohamed Jalloh, Director of Tourism, Travel and Exchange Programs at the MTCA, addressed the students, he emphasized the importance of ecotourism not only as a driver of economic development but also as a tool for environmental education and community empowerment.
This experience is designed to help you see tourism beyond the classroom. Ecotourism teaches us to respect our environment, protect our heritage, and promote responsible travel, said Jalloh.
He also highlighted several initiatives undertaken by the Ministry and its partners to increase public awareness about ecotourism, including conservation campaigns, community-based tourism projects, and capacity-building programs aimed at strengthening the sector.
In addition to the Tiwai Island visit, the students made educational stops at Bo Clock Tower, Bo School, Njala University, and Bush Garden, allowing them to appreciate the historical, cultural, and educational significance of these landmarks. These sites provided broader context and added depth to their understanding of the region’s tourism potential.
The trip offered students an immersive learning experience that connected theory with practice. From observing endangered species in their natural habitat to discussing sustainable tourism strategies with professionals, the tour was both enlightening and inspiring for the next generation of tourism leaders.
This initiative reflects the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to strengthening human capacity in the tourism sector and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship among Sierra Leone’s youth.