By Kadijatu Bangura, Reporter D.S
The Vice Chancellor and Principal of Milton Margai Technical University (MMTU), Prof. Philip John Kanu, has reportedly dismissed over 300 lecturers across the institution’s campuses. This decision triggered protests on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, as hundreds of affected lecturers gathered at the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE) headquarters in New England Ville.
The dismissed lecturers arrived at the Ministry carrying their termination letters, seeking intervention from Minister Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie. Mr. Solomon Keddy, the former President of the Academic Staff Association (ASA), addressed the press, denouncing Prof. Kanu’s decision as unilateral and illegal, asserting that the University Court was not involved in the contract terminations.
Mr. Keddy noted that the lecturers had previously applied for their positions and successfully passed interviews approved by the University Court following the institution’s transition into a polytechnic. He stated that despite this process, the administration subsequently required them to reapply for the same positions. He claimed that although the Ministry deemed further interviews unlawful, Prof. Kanu insisted on conducting them.
Additionally, Mr. Keddy alleged that the Vice Chancellor issued letters indicating the termination of their contracts effective May 31, 2025, and accused him of withholding bonuses, benefits, and child welfare allowances from the lecturers since his appointment. The lecturers are demanding Prof. Kanu’s removal, claiming he is detrimental to the institution.
Following a private meeting with the protesting lecturers, Minister Dr. Wurie assured them of her commitment to finding an amicable resolution with the University Court, where Prof. Kanu would also be present. She appealed to the lecturers to refrain from further demonstrations, promising that the matter would be addressed.
The situation at MMTU remains tense as both the dismissed lecturers and the university administration seek a resolution to the ongoing dispute.
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