By: Usman Fambuleh
The Internet Society Sierra Leone Chapter has on Thursday 4th June, 2026, officially launched the Internet Society Njala University Chapter at the Main Auditorium of the Mokondeh Campus, marking a significant milestone in the promotion of digital literacy, internet accessibility, and technological innovation among university students in Sierra Leone.
The launch followed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Internet Society Sierra Leone Chapter and Njala University and attracted students from various academic disciplines, lecturers, university administrators, and members of the Internet Society Sierra Leone.
Addressing the gathering, the President of the Internet Society Sierra Leone Chapter, Madam Ajara Marie Bomah, emphasized the numerous opportunities and benefits available to students who become members of the organization. She explained that the Society is committed to promoting meaningful internet connectivity and ensuring that students have access to digital resources capable of enhancing their academic and professional development.
Madam Bomah underscored the importance of reliable internet access in modern education and assured students that the Society would work towards improving internet connectivity both on campus and within surrounding communities.
“We will ensure that students have access to meaningful internet connectivity within the campus and neighboring communities. Access to the internet is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity for education, innovation, and national development,” she affirmed.
She encouraged students from all faculties and departments to embrace technology as a tool for learning, creativity, and problem-solving. According to her, the world is experiencing a technological revolution driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI), automation, and digital innovations, and Sierra Leonean students must position themselves to benefit from these advancements.
Madam Bomah observed that technology is rapidly transforming every sector of society and argued that young people have a critical role to play in shaping the country’s digital future.
“Artificial Intelligence is here to stay, and we must be prepared to adapt, learn, and make the best use of it. Sierra Leone cannot afford to be left behind in the digital age. Our students are central to this transformation, and we are committed to supporting them every step of the way,” she asserted.
She further pledged the unwavering support of the Internet Society Sierra Leone Chapter towards initiatives that promote digital inclusion, innovation, and technological advancement at Njala University.
Delivering his remarks, the Director of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) at Njala University, Dr. Thomas Philip Songu, commended the Internet Society Sierra Leone Chapter for bringing what he described as a transformative initiative to the university community.
Dr. Songu urged students to take full advantage of the opportunities presented by the newly launched chapter, stressing that technology has become an indispensable part of everyday life.
He highlighted the growing influence of digital technologies in sectors such as finance, education, commerce, and communication, citing the widespread use of E-Money, E-Learning, E-Marketing, E-Business, and other technology-driven platforms that continue to shape contemporary society.
“Technology has become an integral part of our daily lives. From how we learn and conduct business to how we communicate and access services, technology continues to redefine the way we live. Therefore, students should consider themselves fortunate to have a platform such as the Internet Society on campus to educate, inform, and transform their skills,” he remarked.
The ICT Director further maintained that technology remains one of the most effective tools for addressing societal challenges and fostering development.
“Technology is an enabler that helps us solve problems and create opportunities. I encourage every student to seize this opportunity and become actively involved in the activities of the Internet Society Chapter,” he advised.
While acknowledging the importance of internet connectivity in supporting academic excellence, Dr. Songu appealed to the Internet Society Sierra Leone Chapter to continue advocating for affordable internet access for students.
He thanked the organization for extending its programmes to Njala University and pledged the support of his department towards ensuring the success of the initiative.
“As Director of ICT, I will ensure that the necessary support is provided so that the intended impact of this partnership is realized across the university community,” he assured.
Also speaking at the event, the Vice President of the Internet Society Sierra Leone Chapter, Mr. Edward Williams, highlighted the organization’s contributions towards advancing internet development and digital inclusion in Sierra Leone.
Mr. Williams disclosed that the Internet Society Foundation has played an instrumental role in supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening internet infrastructure in the country, including efforts linked to the expansion of fibre-optic connectivity.
He described the launch of the Njala University Chapter as a historic achievement and revealed that Njala University had become the first provincial university in Sierra Leone to host an Internet Society Chapter.
“This is a proud moment for both the Internet Society and Njala University. We are delighted that Njala University is the first provincial university to establish an Internet Society Chapter, and we intend to expand this initiative to our campuses in Bo and Bonthe,” he disclosed.
Mr. Williams further announced plans to support the university with the establishment of an E-Library Hub, which he said would provide students with greater access to digital learning resources and research materials.
“This chapter presents a unique opportunity for students to acquire digital skills, expand their knowledge, and connect with global opportunities. We encourage students to make the most of this platform,” he urged.
Speaking in an interview shortly after the launch, Aruna Kamara, a Computer Science student at Njala University, expressed appreciation to the Internet Society Sierra Leone Chapter for bringing the initiative to the institution.
Kamara stated that the programme had broadened his understanding of internet technologies and emerging digital trends. He noted that the platform would serve as an avenue for students to improve their technological skills and gain practical knowledge relevant to their academic disciplines.
“I have learned a great deal about the internet and technology from this programme. As a Computer Science student, I believe this platform will help me strengthen my skills, expand my knowledge, and become better prepared for opportunities in the technology sector,” he stated.
He thanked the leadership of the Internet Society Sierra Leone Chapter for considering Njala University and expressed optimism that many students would benefit from the initiative.
The event reached its climax with the official unveiling and launch of the Internet Society Njala University Chapter by President Ajara Marie Bomah and Director of ICT Dr. Thomas Philip Songu, amid applause and excitement from students and guests.
The ceremony concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which students engaged officials on issues relating to internet accessibility, digital innovation, and career opportunities in technology, followed by refreshments and networking.
