49 Youths Graduate from Brotherhood Educational Youth Centre Skills Programme
By Kelvin Jay
The Brotherhood Educational Youth Centre, an academic institution supported by the SBS Foundation, has graduated 49 students in various professional disciplines during a ceremony held on Sunday, April 26, 2026.
The graduates completed training in skills areas including electrical and solar installation, computer science, plumbing, and other vocational fields under the International Youth Academy—a 10-month structured programme tailored exclusively for male students. The initiative combines technical training, discipline, and value-based learning aimed at preparing participants for long-term success.
Chairing the ceremony, Ansumana Keita provided a background of the institution and welcomed guests and graduands, highlighting the centre’s commitment to youth empowerment through education and skills development.
In his address, SBS Foundation President, Abdulkadir Akgul, congratulated the graduates and urged them to become agents of positive change in society. He noted that the Foundation, established in 2021, focuses on education and humanitarian support, and has played a key role in strengthening youth-focused educational initiatives in Sierra Leone since 2022.
Delivering a message on behalf of the Türkiye Embassy, Onur Koroglu commended the graduates and reaffirmed the Embassy’s support for skills training programmes implemented through the SBS Foundation. He described the certificates as not only symbols of achievement but also tools for personal and national development, stressing that education is central to building a better future.
Representing the Ministry of Education, Sheik Sahid Gassama praised the students for their dedication, noting that skills acquisition is essential for national transformation. He emphasized that “skills bring freedom” and can significantly impact both individuals and society, encouraging the graduates to see their journey as a lifelong pursuit.
Education Manager Alhassan Jojor Barrie highlighted the determination of the graduates, stating that all 49 students chose education over negative influences such as drug abuse. He commended their resilience, describing them as emerging problem-solvers equipped with hope and purpose.
Marketing Manager Mohamed Barrie explained that the International Youth Academy is designed to help young people unlock their potential through practical skills training. He also revealed additional programmes run by the institution, including foundational academic support for primary and junior secondary school pupils, as well as the International Women Catering Academy, which offers hands-on training in catering, baking, pastry, and beverage production. He noted that up to 80 percent of the courses are practical.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates to graduates, alongside awards for outstanding performance in various disciplines.
Closing remarks were delivered by Umar Kamara, Secretary General of the SBS Foundation, who encouraged graduates to uphold the values and skills acquired as they transition into the next phase of their lives.
