Freetown: The Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE) and the National Science, Technology and Innovation Council (NSTIC) have finalized their review of five national research projects funded by grants and close to completion. This session assessed the outcomes from two years of implementation across various national universities and colleges.
According to Sierra Leone News Agency, Fatmata Kaiwa, Director of Science Education at MTHE, highlighted that the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACT) grant, secured through NSTIC, intentionally promoted youth participation in these projects. Following an international evaluation by the Association of African Universities, this local assessment gives ministry officials direct insight into the progress and challenges ahead of a second continental review.
Dr. Darlinda Jiba delivered a critical presentation on Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis (CPA), revealing that 63 out of 400 patients assessed nationwide, or about 15.8%, were misdiagnosed with Tuberculosis. CPA's symptoms mimic those of TB, leading to mistreatment, increased mortality, and unnecessary drug exposure. Dr. Jiba emphasized that misdiagnosis poses a significant public health threat. The study also involved training healthcare workers to identify often-overlooked fungal infections, despite challenges like limited chest X-ray access, unreliable power, and costly, scarce antifungal medication.
Emmanuel Kamanda, the technical lead, showcased an artificial intelligence-driven learning platform designed for low-connectivity environments. This system provides personalized, offline-capable education with exam preparation and gamified features, already piloted in over 20 schools. Discussions are in progress with the Ministry of Basic Education and development partners for potential national implementation.
Engineer Sheriff Kamara presented the 'Cook Quick Stove,' an improved design aimed at reducing fuel use, enhancing safety, and minimizing smoke emissions. The project used a bottom-up approach, incorporating feedback from both rural and urban communities for product refinement and acceptance.
In response, Minister Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie praised the researchers for addressing national issues, particularly highlighting the CPA findings as a compelling case for better health worker training and collaboration with the Ministry of Health, as well as advocacy through Africa CDC. Regarding the cookstove, Dr. Wurie pointed out the health, environmental, and economic benefits, especially for women, and urged a shift from research to commercialization and industrialization within universities. She noted ongoing work with UNESCO to draft a national research and innovation policy.
Chief Technical Officer Dr. Josephus Brimah echoed the need for research to yield practical solutions for national development.
The review concluded with MTHE and NSTIC reaffirming their commitment to securing further funding, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that scientific evidence directly informs Sierra Leone's policy and innovation framework.