By Sallieu S. Kanu
Sierra Leone — A damning investigation into Milton Margai Technical University (MMTU) has revealed widespread irregularities in the recruitment and appointment of academic staff, raising serious questions about integrity and accountability within the institution.
The MMTU Investigation Report, commissioned after mounting allegations, found evidence of tampered score sheets, selective interview invitations, and questionable appointment letters. The committee concluded that the process was “discredited by intentional and criminal acts,” urging immediate reforms and legal action against those responsible.
Key Findings
- Tampering of Documents: Original score sheets were altered, changing candidate rankings and eligibility.
- Selective Invitations: Qualified candidates were deliberately excluded from interviews, undermining fairness.
- Compromised Appointments: Letters of appointment were issued outside standard procedures, with lecturers re-categorized without consultation.
- No Grievance Mechanism: Staff had no independent body to appeal to, forcing them to seek intervention from the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education.
- Culture of Resignation: Witnesses admitted awareness of tampering but expressed little surprise, reflecting low expectations for procedural integrity.
Recommendations
The committee urged:
- Nullification of compromised appointments
- Creation of an independent grievance body
- Reinstatement of staff based on original scores
- Legal action against perpetrators
- Transparent, merit-based recruitment going forward
Vice Chancellor’s Response
Professor Philip Kanu, Vice Chancellor of MMTU, acknowledged administrative lapses but defended the recruitment exercise as intended to be merit-based. He denied personal involvement in tampering, attributing discrepancies to clerical errors.
While refuting claims of selective invitations, he admitted communication breakdowns may have caused confusion. He pledged to support reforms, including the establishment of a grievance committee, and called for unity among staff to restore trust.
Implications
The revelations have shaken confidence in MMTU’s governance, with staff expressing frustration and distrust. The report paints a picture of systemic manipulation and weak oversight, warning that without urgent reforms, the university’s credibility and academic standards remain at risk.