The University of Makeni (UNIMAK ) officially started its 2025/2026 academic year with its traditional Opening Mass, held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at the Yoni Chapel, about five miles from the Fatima Campus. Hundreds of students from the university’s eight faculties, along with staff, gathered for this symbolic event—a tradition dating back to the university’s founding as Sierra Leone’s first Catholic and private institution in 2009. The Mass is held to seek God’s guidance for the university’s work throughout the year, highlighting the institution’s deeply rooted spiritual values. This year’s celebration, like previous ones, motivated many new students from different backgrounds, showcasing UNIMAK’s status as a diverse and international university.
Vice Chancellor Professor Joseph Turay addressed the congregation, emphasizing the institution’s foundational belief that “in everything we do, God comes first,” and acknowledging the excellent work of the chaplaincy. He encouraged students to maintain a quiet time with God and to seek counsel from religious leaders, stating, “Here at UNIMAK in everything we do, [we] start with prayers.” Professor Turay also highlighted the university’s commitment to developing leaders, affirming, “When you come to UNIMAK, you are already a leader.”
