By: Patrick Hinga George, Public Education Officer, Anti-Corruption Commission
The Regional Director of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Eastern Region, Hawanatu O. Kamara, has delivered a compelling and thought-provoking address to students and young innovators during the Government Technical Institute (GTI) Tech Expo 2025 held on Thursday, 26th June 2025 at the Institute’s campus in Kenema. Her address emphasized the urgent need for integrity as the backbone of innovation and sustainable national development.
Speaking to a hall filled with bright minds and aspiring tech professionals, Mrs Kamara challenged the youth to go beyond the allure of technological advancement and embrace ethics and accountability as foundational values. She pointed out that while technology has the power to transform societies, it can also become a dangerous tool in the hands of individuals lacking integrity. “Technology without ethics is a dangerous combination that can fuel new and sophisticated forms of corruption,” she stated.
She encouraged the young participants to become ambassadors of transparency and custodians of national progress. "As the next generation of leaders, developers, and innovators, your choices and values will shape the future of Sierra Leone. Let that future be built on honesty, patriotism, and accountability," she urged. Her message resonated strongly with the audience, many of whom expressed admiration for her bold and inspiring challenge to them.
The Director also highlighted the ACC’s role in creating a just and corruption-free Sierra Leone, and how young people, particularly those in the technology space, can play a vital role in achieving that vision. She encouraged them to use their innovations to promote openness, track corruption, and build systems that support transparency in governance and service delivery.
The GTI Tech Expo 2025 was organized as a platform for students to showcase their innovations and gain exposure to professional and ethical guidance from public and private sector leaders. The participation of the ACC at the event reflects the Commission’s growing emphasis on preventive measures, public education, and building integrity at the grassroots level, particularly among young people.
As the event concluded, the principal of the GTI in Kenema, Kadiatu Kamara, expressed appreciation for the ACC’s contribution, noting that it added a crucial dimension to the conversation about technology and development. Many pledged on behalf of the institute to reflect on their personal values and to contribute positively to national growth by rejecting, resisting and reporting corruption, as well as upholding integrity in all endeavors.
