Dr. Alie H. B. Kargbo has made history as the first visually impaired Sierra Leonean to earn a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree from a public university in Sierra Leone. His achievement marks a milestone in the nation’s journey toward inclusive education and disability empowerment.

Born in the Western Area and raised in Lunsar,

Dr. Kargbo’s educational journey began at R.C. Boys

School before continuing at the Milton Margai School for the Blind. He later broke barriers by attending

Government Technical Secondary School in Freetown, where he excelled academically and held leadership roles.

Dr. Kargbo pursued higher education at Freetown Teachers College, Milton Margai College of Education and Technology, and Njala University, where he completed his PhD in Inclusive Education and Sensory

Integration.

His doctoral journey, though marked by systemic challenges such as inaccessible learning

materials and financial constraints, reflects resilience, determination, and faith.

Professionally,

Dr. Kargbo has served Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education

for over a decade, holding leadership positions across multiple districts. His work has focused on school

monitoring, supervision, and policy implementation to improve educational quality nationwide.

Reflecting on his achievement, Dr. Kargbo emphasized that education represents independence and equal recognition—not sympathy. He calls on Sierra Leoneans to support inclusive opportunities and urges persons with disabilities to pursue their goals with discipline and confidence.

Looking ahead, Dr. Kargbo plans to expand his research, pursue postdoctoral studies, and contribute to disability support services through consultancy, academic coaching,

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 11th March 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)