Freetown, 14th July 2026- Professor Aliyageen M. Alghali has stepped down as Chairman of Sierra Leone’s Tertiary Education Commission (TEC), citing unresolved misconduct cases, institutional interference, and what he described as a breakdown of trust and discipline within the Commission.
In his resignation letter addressed to the Ministry of Tertiary and Higher Education, Prof. Alghali said he had served “diligently and in good faith,” introducing sound policies, strengthening accreditation processes, and promoting transparency during his tenure. However, he noted that persistent allegations, internal disputes, and the Ministry’s growing interference had made it impossible for him to continue.
The former Chairman pointed to unresolved controversies involving staff misconduct, forged documents, and demonstrations against his leadership. Despite two internal inquiries that found gross misconduct and violations of public service regulations, he said disciplinary measures were never enforced. Instead, staff were reinstated after issuing what he described as an “unapologetic apology” via a WhatsApp forum post.
“This failure to enforce the Regulations undermines discipline and sets a precedent that weakens the Commission’s authority,” Prof. Alghali wrote, adding that undisclosed meetings among Commissioners and continuous interference by the Ministry in accreditation and quality assurance matters had eroded the Commission’s independence.
He further accused the Ministry of usurping the Commission’s mandate, duplicating policies, and undermining its authority. “Given that I do not feel justice has been served, and that the structural conditions for effective leadership are no longer in place, I cannot in good conscience continue and pretend that all is well,” he stated.
Prof. Alghali expressed gratitude to President Julius Maada Bio for the confidence reposed in him, noting it had been “an honour to serve him and the nation.” He submitted comprehensive handover notes detailing accomplishments and ongoing projects under his stewardship.
His resignation marks a significant shake-up in Sierra Leone’s tertiary education sector, raising questions about governance, accountability, and the balance of power between the Ministry and independent commissions.
