Milton Margai Technical University Suspends Vice-Chancellor Over Recruitment Irregularities
FREETOWN — The Court of Milton Margai Technical University (MMTU) has placed Dr. Philip John Kanu, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, on interim suspension with immediate effect following allegations of irregularities in staff recruitment.
The suspension was announced in a letter dated 8th April 2026, addressed to Dr. Kanu and signed by Ing. M.A. Jalloh on behalf of the University Court.
According to the letter, the Court acted after submitting and considering a report from a Sub-Committee established to investigate the recruitment allegations. The Court noted that it had taken cognisance of the seriousness of the findings contained in the report.
The suspension was exercised under Section 15(1)(a) of the Universities Act, No. 5 of 2021, and in consultation with the Minister as prescribed in Section 7(2)(d) of the same instrument.
The Court stated that the measure was taken in the best interest of the University and pending the conclusion of all administrative and disciplinary proceedings.
Dr. Kanu has been required to immediately hand over all official duties, responsibilities, and University property to Dr. Mohamed Ali Jalloh. He has also been advised to refrain from undertaking any official functions on behalf of the University for the duration of the suspension.
The Court emphasised that the suspension was taken without prejudice to Dr. Kanu’s right to be heard and to make representations regarding the findings and recommendations contained in the report.
The suspension shall remain in force pending further directives of the Court.
Copies of the suspension letter were sent to the Deputy Minister of Technical and Higher Education, the Chief Technical and Higher Education Officer, the Secretary to the President, the Permanent Secretary, the Director of Higher Education, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, and the Registrar of MMTU.
