Freetown, Sierra Leone – June 6, 2025: In a landmark partnership, the Sierra Leone Seed Certification Agency (SLeSCA) and Njala University have joined forces to develop a comprehensive Seed Science and Technology curriculum, aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and supporting the government’s Feed Salone initiative.
The collaboration, which has been approved by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, was formalized during a three-day workshop at SLeSCA’s Laboratory in Mile 91. Agricultural experts and university lecturers convened to map out the development process for the new curriculum, which, once fully approved, will be integrated into Njala University’s School of Agriculture starting in the next academic year.
A Milestone in Sierra Leone’s Agricultural Advancement
Described by many as a major step forward, the initiative aims to build local expertise in seed science—an essential component of food security and agricultural resilience.
Dr. Robert Chakanda, Executive Director of SLeSCA, emphasized the critical need for domestic capacity building in seed technology. Reflecting on his leadership journey, he noted that the agency initially lacked formally trained seed scientists, relying on short-term training and international capacity-building programs.
“Developing a local curriculum is a fundamental step in creating a sustainable seed system. We are now on the path to producing Sierra Leone’s first generation of professionally trained seed scientists right here at home,” Dr. Chakanda affirmed.
Closing the Knowledge Gap in Seed Science
Deputy Vice Chancellor of Njala University, Professor Alieu M. Bah, underscored the direct link between seed quality and agricultural productivity, stressing that without trained specialists, Sierra Leone’s ability to build a resilient seed system remains limited.
“This curriculum is designed to bridge that gap and contribute to the goals of the Feed Salone flagship programme,” Prof. Bah noted.
The program will train scientists in seed health, soil compatibility, pest resistance, plant breeding, agronomy, and seed certification. Once fully developed, it will go through Njala University’s curriculum committee and the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) for accreditation.
Commitment to Food Security and Economic Growth
Dr. Chakanda reiterated that the initiative aligns with Sierra Leone’s long-term vision for food security, ensuring the scientific capacity to produce high-quality seeds suited to local conditions.
“With more than 50 trained staff already in place and plans for expansion, SLeSCA and Njala University are optimistic that this academic collaboration will not only support agricultural progress but also create new career opportunities in agricultural science and technology,” he stated.
About SLeSCA
SLeSCA serves as Sierra Leone’s national seed quality control and certification agency, operating under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. The agency enforces the Seed Act of 2018 and the Seed Regulations Act of 2019, overseeing the certification of crop seeds, registration of improved varieties, and the facilitation of seed imports and exports.
For Further Inquiries:
📧 Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security – info@statehouse.gov.sl
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