Stakeholder views on community colleges in Sierra Leone

Addressing youth unemployment through education

Abstract

This study examines Sierra Leonean higher education stakeholders' views on establishing a community college system to address youth unemployment and improve postsecondary accessibility. Applying the theory of planned behavior, we surveyed 151 stakeholders, including administrators, faculty, students, unemployed youths, and parents. Findings indicate a consensus on the severity of youth unemployment and limited educational opportunities. Notably, unemployed youths and faculty members exhibit the most substantial support for community colleges, while current students and administrators show comparatively lower levels of support. These insights suggest that implementing community colleges could be a viable strategy to expand educational access and mitigate youth unemployment in Sierra Leone. Policy recommendations and implications for future research are discussed.