Challenges and Optimism for Sustainable Research Capacity in Sierra Leone

Abstract This article has provided a non-empirical approach in addressing the potential for sustainable research at all levels in Sierra Leone. It is an indisputable fact that remnants of the civil crisis and more lately, the Ebola crisis have contributed to the country’s under-developed research potential, more so at higher education level where the pace seemed to be slow in comparison to other countries in the West African sub-region. The country is making some strides in forging ahead with efforts being placed by individuals / institutions to improve opportunities for high level research in the country, but such a venture is faced with serious challenges. Highlights of some of the challenges include development of institutional capacity, strong strategic management capacity, and development in human capacity. Recommendations have also suggested attention focused on the building of strong institutional capacity and investment as the way forward in the sustained pathway of the country’s development.