Sierra Leone’s Tertiary Education Commission Chairman Cleared in Ministry Investigation, Systemic Governance Issues Identified
The Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE) has concluded its investigation into allegations against the Chairman of the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC), finding no evidence to support claims of misconduct while identifying significant governance weaknesses within the institution.
Investigation Process and Key Findings
The comprehensive review, initiated in response to a September 2025 staff petition, examined allegations ranging from intimidation and abuse of office to potential corruption-related actions. The Ministry’s evidence-based approach included analysis of staff complaints, the Chairman’s written response, supporting documentation, and a follow-up meeting held on November 11th, 2025, involving TEC staff, Commissioners, and representatives from the Anti-Corruption Commission and Ministry of Labour.
Critical to the investigation’s outcome was the clear distinction between the roles of the Chairman and Executive Secretary under the TEC Act. Evidence demonstrated that all expenditure and administrative requests originated from the Executive Secretary before reaching the Chairman for approval, effectively separating operational from oversight responsibilities.
Financial and Administrative Clarifications
The Ministry addressed specific allegations regarding financial management, noting that while the TEC Act of 2025 doesn’t explicitly define the role of a Vote Controller, guidance from the Public Financial Management Act of 2016 applies. Staff evidence confirmed the Executive Secretary initiated all financial requests, revealing oversight gaps at the operational level.
Regarding procurement concerns, the investigation confirmed that a request for sole-sourcing a capital project did not receive a “No Objection” from the National Public Procurement Authority (NPPA) and was consequently never implemented. The request originated from the Executive Secretary with no indication of instruction from the Chairman.
Systemic Weaknesses and Recommended Reforms
While clearing the Chairman of specific allegations, the Ministry identified longstanding governance and fiduciary weaknesses within TEC. The absence of a fully functional Procurement Unit was noted as a particular vulnerability, though the Ministry highlighted that NPPA and Audit Service Sierra Leone audits over the past six years had not produced adverse procurement findings.
The Ministry has recommended a comprehensive Management and Functional Review to strengthen processes, improve oversight mechanisms, and clarify institutional roles. This forward-looking approach suggests the investigation revealed underlying structural issues requiring attention beyond the immediate allegations.
Resolution and Path Forward
Based on the evidence reviewed, including documents submitted by staff, the Ministry concluded that several allegations lacked merit. The Chairman has been advised to resume his duties to ensure continuity and effective governance at the Commission.
Staff members who remain dissatisfied were encouraged to forward concerns to the Anti-Corruption Commission, which holds statutory mandate to investigate corruption-related matters. The Ministry called on all TEC employees to continue performing their roles with professionalism and integrity while reaffirming commitment to supporting the Commission’s effective functioning.
This report is based on the original investigation findings published by Sierra Loaded.