By MWPA Communications Unit
FREETOWN, October. 9, 2026: The Minister of Works and Public Assets, Dr. Denis M. Sandy, has supervised a transparent and merit-based selection process for 25 staff members of the Ministry who will participate in an international seminar on standardisation in the engineering and construction sector in Chengdu, China.
The selected officials are scheduled to depart for China on October 12, 2026, where they will take part in a specialized training programme aimed at enhancing their knowledge of international engineering standards, modern construction techniques, technological innovations, and best practices in infrastructure development.
Speaking ahead of the delegation’s departure, Dr. Sandy described the seminar as a significant opportunity to strengthen the technical capacity and professional competence of ministry personnel. He urged participants to take full advantage of the training and apply the knowledge acquired to improve the quality, safety, and durability of infrastructure projects across Sierra Leone.
The Minister also encouraged the staff to demonstrate discipline, professionalism, and responsibility throughout the programme, noting that they would serve as ambassadors of both the Ministry and the country.
“Your participation is not only a learning opportunity but also a chance to represent Sierra Leone positively and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said.
Dr. Sandy further emphasized the importance of knowledge-sharing upon the participants’ return, stressing that the benefits of the training should extend beyond the selected individuals and contribute to institutional growth within the Ministry.
Deputy Minister of Works and Public Assets, Mrs. Christiana Queen Fofanah, welcomed the initiative, describing international training opportunities as critical to strengthening the technical expertise of public servants and improving service delivery.
She encouraged the participants to remain committed, professional, and willing to learn, while ensuring that the knowledge gained is translated into practical improvements in the Ministry’s operations.
Head of Delegation, Ing. Alphajor Bah, assured the Ministry’s leadership that participants would remain focused throughout the seminar and use the opportunity to enhance their professional skills and competencies.
He expressed gratitude for the Ministry’s continued commitment to staff development and capacity building, noting that the exposure would improve institutional performance and support the adoption of internationally recognized engineering and construction standards.
Some of the selected participants also expressed appreciation for the opportunity.
Madam Warah Salamatu Kargbo, who will be travelling outside Sierra Leone for the first time, described the seminar as a valuable opportunity to gain new knowledge, learn from international experts, and better understand the application of standardisation in the engineering and construction industry.
She thanked Dr. Sandy, Deputy Minister Fofanah, Madam Mariana Tutu Vandy, and the Ministry’s administration for the opportunity.
Similarly, Harry Koroma Jnr, another first-time traveller, said the seminar would expose him to new professional experiences, innovative working methods, and internationally recognised industry standards.
He expressed gratitude to the Ministry’s leadership and pledged to apply the knowledge and experience gained to support the country’s infrastructure development.
The seminar forms part of broader efforts by the Ministry of Works and Public Assets to strengthen the capacity of personnel in the public infrastructure sector and promote higher standards in the planning, supervision, and execution of engineering and construction projects across Sierra Leone