How Sierra Leone is improving the quality of life through science and technology

An interview with Dr Samba Sesay

This video previews the ongoing efforts of the National Science Technology and Innovation Council of Sierra Leone (NSTIC-SL), a young council established in 2020.

Dr. Samba Sesay, Programme Implementation Manager, explains that NSTIC-SL’s core mission is to enhance the quality of life for Sierra Leonean citizens through science and technology.

The council engages in advocacy, fundraising for research, and bridging the gap between researchers, the government, and the private sector, aiming to cultivate a thriving ecosystem for impactful projects.

Joining the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) as an observer in 2020 and a full member in 2023, NSTIC-SL benefits from crucial capacity-building training and skills development.

Despite its youth, the council diligently works to implement the government’s 2002 STI policy. NSTIC-SL advises the government on science and technology matters, focusing on promoting, managing, and coordinating science and technology initiatives.

Currently, NSTIC-SL supports five projects through SGCI funding. The council uses the training from SGCI to develop their research and innovation framework. Through SGCI training, some of the NSTIC-SL staff are now used as resource personnel. The council prioritizes learning best practices, identifying key indicators, and understanding expected impacts to effectively support research and innovation.

“The SGCI training has enabled us to develop the framework, enabling us to know which projects to support,” says Sesay.

Watch the full interview to hear Dr Sesay’s insights on creating impactful outcomes through science.