Freetown: In a symbolic and emotional ceremony held at the Ministry’s Conference Room in the Sababu Building, New England Ville, the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE) on Tuesday, 7th October 2025, officially welcomed rehabilitated youth back into the education system after successfully completing rehabilitation at the Peace Mission Training Centre (PMTC).
According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the event marked a significant milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to promote education, rehabilitation, and social reintegration under the Free Quality Education Programme. Speaking at the ceremony, the Deputy Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Sarjoh Aziz Kamara, underscored the importance of second chances for young people, noting that the government’s investment in rehabilitation and education reflects its commitment to building human capital. He encouraged the beneficiaries to remain focused on their studies or skills training, avoid negative influences, and uphold the values of
discipline and perseverance.
He further cautioned against relapse into substance abuse and appealed to parents and communities to play active roles in supporting the reintegration process. ‘Human capital remains Sierra Leone’s most valuable resource,’ he emphasized, adding that the recovery and reintegration of these youth represents not only personal success but also a national victory.
Also speaking, the Director of Science Education at MTHE, Fatmata Kaiwa, described the event as ‘deeply emotional and inspirational.’ She noted that addiction often brings shame to individuals, families, and communities, and commended the courage of those who sought rehabilitation as a step towards reclaiming their dignity and future. Kaiwa reminded beneficiaries that re-entry into tertiary institutions must follow established procedures, including submission of valid admission letters and academic transcripts.
She clarified that government scholarships currently prioritize women in science, female personnel in the securit
y sector, and persons with disabilities, while others may benefit from the government’s ongoing postgraduate student loan scheme.
The Home Father of PMTC, Daniel Abu, expressed appreciation to the government for its continued support in rehabilitating youth affected by drug abuse. He revealed that more than 400 individuals have completed the programme, with the fifth batch of 52 participants currently being monitored to ensure their smooth reintegration into society and educational institutions. He explained that the rehabilitation process not only detoxifies participants but also reorients their mindset and prepares them for academic and vocational advancement.
Abu encouraged the rehabilitated youth to serve as ambassadors of change, using their experiences to inspire others to stay away from drug abuse and contribute positively to national development. Sharing his story, Oluwafemi Metzger, a former student of Milton Margai Technical University, recounted how drug abuse derailed his pursuit of a Bachelor’s
degree in International Relations. Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to return to education, he said he now aspires to serve Sierra Leone as a diplomat. Metzger appealed to the government to sustain rehabilitation initiatives and urged others struggling with addiction to seek help and embrace change.