Singapore: Mohamed Sheick Kargbo, Permanent Secretary of Sierra Leone's Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE), has completed a five-day strategic leadership and public governance training under the Singapore Cooperation Programme (SCP). According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the course ran from 18th to 22nd May 2026 at the Civil Service College. Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs sponsored the programme through its Cooperation Programme Training Award. Kargbo received a certificate from Jolene Tan, Director General of Development Partnerships at Singapore's Foreign Ministry, recognizing his completion of the leadership and governance capacity programme for public sector professionals. Reflecting on the training, Kargbo called it insightful and impactful, offering practical lessons on public sector leadership. He said leadership goes beyond authority, requiring individuals to uphold institutional values, invest in people, and adopt long-term strategies for sustainable growth. "One key lesso n is that leaders must serve as custodians of institutional values. They should lead by example and consistently uphold their institution's principles," he stated. He added that effective leadership is people-centered, emphasizing staff motivation, qualified recruitment, and continuous capacity building. On accountability and transparency in higher education, Kargbo stressed integrity in governance. "Leaders must uphold rules and remain accountable to the people they serve. The rule of law should guide all institutional operations," he said. He also urged proactive leadership, encouraging institutions to anticipate challenges and apply preventive measures rather than reacting after problems arise. Kargbo commended Singapore's digital transformation, describing the country as a model for Sierra Leone's technology-driven governance agenda.