Freetown, 9th September, 2026 – The University of Sierra Leone has dismissed claims circulating on social media that its constituent college, Fourah Bay College (FBC), has cancelled its planned bicentenary celebrations due to financial constraints.
Speaking to Truth Media, the University’s Director of Communications, Dr. Tonya Musa, described the reports as “Fake News” and urged the public to disregard them. He stressed that the alleged cancellation document did not originate from the administration.
The rumours surfaced after a purported press release was shared online, suggesting that FBC’s Bicentenary Planning Committee had called off the celebrations. Dr. Musa clarified that the college remains committed to marking its 200th anniversary.
The controversy comes amid student agitation over the timing of student union elections. Some students had threatened to boycott the bicentenary events unless elections were held. In response, the University has since outlined a clear timeline for the polls, aiming to ease tensions and ensure inclusive participation in the celebrations.
Fourah Bay College, Africa’s oldest western‑style university, views the bicentenary as a historic milestone. Officials say preparations are ongoing and the celebrations will proceed as planned, despite attempts to derail the narrative through misinformation.
