Professor James B. W. Russell, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences (COMAHS), University of Sierra Leone (USL), has joined invigilators and supervisors overseeing ongoing examinations at the Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery.

His decision to personally participate in the examination process has been described as a demonstration of leadership, accountability and commitment to maintaining academic standards at the institution.

As a senior academic, clinician and administrator, Professor Russell’s presence among the examination supervisors underscored the importance of senior leadership being directly involved in critical academic processes. His participation also reinforced the institution’s emphasis on examination integrity, proper conduct and credible assessment.

Despite the demands of his clinical and administrative responsibilities, Professor Russell made time to observe the examination process alongside other members of the supervisory team.

His involvement provided additional assurance to students and staff that the examinations were being conducted under close supervision and in accordance with the standards expected of a leading health sciences institution.

Professor Russell’s participation also highlighted a leadership approach centred on visibility and direct engagement. Rather than limiting his responsibilities to administrative duties, he demonstrated a willingness to be present at the institution’s core academic activities and support staff responsible for ensuring the integrity of the examination process.

At the end of his visit, Professor Russell expressed satisfaction with the work being carried out by the examination supervisors, invigilators, the examination officer, faculty staff and other personnel who have contributed to the successful conduct of the examinations.

His participation has been viewed as an example of leadership by example, reinforcing the values of discipline, transparency, accountability and academic excellence within COMAHS and the wider University of Sierra Leone.

The ongoing examinations at the Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery continue to receive the support and oversight of the institution’s academic and administrative leadership.