On October 17, students at Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology (EBKUST) in Makeni, Sierra Leone, led a protest against the removal of continuous assessment grades from their overall academic results. The demonstration saw hundreds of students voicing their frustration over the university's decision to eliminate the 30% continuous assessment component, which they argue plays a vital role in their academic performance.

The university's recent changes in its assessment policy sparked the protest, with many students expressing concern that removing the continuous assessment will negatively impact their final grades. One student remarked, "We need our continuous assessment back," highlighting the importance of this grading structure in easing their academic burden.

The protestors also called for the restoration of the university's former academic standards, which they feel have declined under recent administrative decisions. A second-year student from the Faculty of Social Sciences shared, "The university used to have a reputation for excellence, but now, we are struggling."

Students from the Development Studies Department, which had been relocated to Magburaka, were particularly vocal. One student expressed disappointment, stating, "Our department has been moved, and it is difficult for us to continue our studies because of the distance."

In response, the university's Public Relations Department urged students to remain calm. The Assistant Public Relations Officer, Alimamy Mamoud Larkoh, assured students that the administration is aware of their concerns and that the Vice-Chancellor is committed to addressing them.

An internal investigation is underway to address these issues, and it remains uncertain whether the university will reconsider its decision on the continuous assessment or the relocation of the Development Studies Department. The students have vowed to continue protesting until their demands are met, with a press conference scheduled to clarify the university’s position.