By Shadrach Aziz Kamara
Freetown, Sierra Leone — A crucial joint committee meeting held on Thursday, August 29, 2024, has resulted in a two-week ultimatum for resolving the ongoing dispute between Milton Maggai Technical University (MMTU) and New Brookfield’s Hotel. The session, chaired by Hon. Joseph Williams Lamin, brought together representatives from various sectors to address the issue.
The meeting, held in Committee Room One at the Parliament Building, was attended by Members of Parliament (MPs), officials from the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, the Ministry of Lands, as well as management from MMTU, the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC), and New Brookfield’s Hotel.
Prof. Aliyageen M. Alghali, Chairman of the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC), reported that a day of negotiations at New Brookfield’s Hotel had taken place as per the committee’s directive. Despite some progress, disagreements remained, particularly with New Brookfield’s Hotel not fully endorsing the resolutions proposed by MMTU. The hotel management requested additional time to consult with their Board before finalizing their position.
Dr. Joseph Brima, Chief Technical Officer at the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, highlighted that two primary issues—regarding container and land use—had emerged. He urged both parties to remain flexible, noting that negotiations often require adjustments from both sides.
Dr. Victor Kabia, Chancellor of MMTU, affirmed that the resolutions proposed were based on a mutual agreement reached during the previous meeting. He indicated that MMTU’s management would review these proposals further to finalize their stance.
Alhaji Ahmed Bundu, Executive Director of New Brookfield’s Hotel, confirmed that the hotel management had agreed to review the resolutions with their Board. They pledged to communicate their Board’s decision to the Parliamentary Oversight Committee once reached.
Hon. Joseph Williams Lamin, Chairman of the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Technical and Higher Education, expressed gratitude to all involved parties for their efforts. He emphasized that the parliamentary intervention was necessary due to dissatisfaction with the roles played by the ministries involved. Lamin urged the parties to overcome their differences and work towards a resolution that would be acceptable to all.
The committee has granted a two-week extension for both parties to reach a conclusive resolution. The next meeting is expected to deliver a final resolution that addresses all concerns, ensuring no party feels aggrieved.
