-Alleged Forgery of Documents
-Finance Director Kicked Out of Office
-Journalists Walked Out of TEC’s Office
The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC), a critical regulatory body overseeing higher education in Sierra Leone, has been plunged into controversy following a series of disturbing developments allegations that have raised concerns about internal governance, transparency, and accountability.
According to credible sources within the Commission, the storm began brewing after allegations surfaced regarding the forgery of official documents. These documents, purportedly linked to staff qualifications and procurement processes, are now at the center of an internal investigation that may have far-reaching implications for the integrity of the Commission.
The situation escalated earlier this week when the Commission’s Finance Director, whose name is being withheld pending confirmation, was reportedly forced out of office under questionable circumstances. Eyewitnesses say the Director was abruptly locked out of the office without prior notice or formal communication, prompting speculation that the move was intended to prevent access to potentially incriminating financial records or internal correspondence related to the forgery allegations.
“It was an unceremonious and disrespectful act,” said a senior staff member on condition of anonymity. “Regardless of the ongoing tensions, such treatment of a high-ranking official is unacceptable and sends the wrong message about due process.”
As tensions mounted within the institution, members of the media who visited the Commission to seek clarification were also caught in the crossfire. One journalist, visibly frustrated by the lack of transparency and hostile reception, walked out of the Commission’s headquarters, describing the atmosphere as “toxic” and “uncooperative.”
“The public deserves answers,” said the journalist in a brief statement to colleagues. “If an institution charged with upholding standards in our universities cannot maintain its own standards, then we are all in trouble.”
Civil Society Groups and education stakeholders have called on the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education to step in and address the unfolding crisis. They warn that failure to resolve the issues decisively could undermine public trust in the Commission’s capacity to regulate tertiary institutions, particularly as the country works toward improving educational standards and attracting international academic partnerships.
Attempts to get an official comment from the Commission’s leadership proved futile, with multiple calls and messages going unanswered. However, insiders say a board meeting is expected in the coming days, where the allegations and related disciplinary actions may be formally addressed.
Meanwhile, student unions and academic professionals have begun expressing concern over the potential fallout. “This chaos could impact accreditation decisions, funding approvals, and the overall credibility of our tertiary institutions,” said Dr. Aminata Bangura, a lecturer at Fourah Bay College.
The developments at the Tertiary Education Commission highlight the urgent need for institutional reforms, transparency mechanisms, and independent oversight in Sierra Leone’s educational governance landscape. As the investigation unfolds, all eyes remain on the government and the Commission’s Board to uphold the rule of law and restore order.
