NCPD and DSTI Sign Groundbreaking MoU to Promote Digital Inclusion
The conference room of the Directorate of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) at State House in Freetown was filled with optimism and purpose on Monday as the National Commission for Persons with Disability (NCPD) and DSTI signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement lays the foundation for a collaborative effort to promote digital inclusion and ensure the full participation of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Sierra Leone’s digital transformation agenda.
Kicking off the ceremony, DSTI’s Policy Manager, Abubakarr Kallon Esq, expressed his excitement over the partnership, emphasizing the importance of shifting the narrative around PWDs in the digital space.
“I am elated that both institutions are putting pen to paper to change the narrative for Persons with Disabilities in our digital ecosystem,” Kallon said. He reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to an inclusive digital transformation, noting, “The President’s vision for a digitally inclusive Sierra Leone is clearly reflected in this collaboration.”
Ibrahim Rashid Bayoh, Technical Director at DSTI, described the MoU as the beginning of a meaningful journey that will bear impactful results. He announced the introduction of a Radical Inclusive Digital Skills Master Class, starting with a pilot phase that will train 80 PWDs, and scaling up to reach 1,000 PWDs across four digital hubs equipped with assistive technologies.
Bayoh also shared plans to adapt existing platforms—such as Leh Wi Tok—with enhanced accessibility features, reinforcing DSTI’s commitment to co-creation and inclusion at every phase of design and implementation.
Representing the National Commission for Persons with Disability, Chairman Brima Abdulai Sheriff beamed with pride as he thanked DSTI’s leadership for their inclusive vision and genuine commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind.
“This MoU aligns perfectly with the Commission’s mandate and supports the policy objectives of the Ministry of Social Welfare,” Sheriff stated. “It also helps us advance the implementation of the 2011 Persons with Disability Act.”
He added that the timing of the agreement was not only appropriate but came earlier than anticipated.
“This MoU comes sooner than expected, and we wholeheartedly welcome it,” Sheriff said, pledging the Commission’s full support to ensure the success of the partnership.
The signing marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s push for digital equity, setting a powerful example of inclusive policymaking and innovation. The collaboration between DSTI and NCPD is poised to empower hundreds of PWDs, not only with digital skills but also with opportunities to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
