By Simeon Bockarie Marah
The Limkokwing University of Creative Technology on Wednesday hosted its 3rd Annual Career Fair 2026, showcasing student creativity and connecting graduating students with the expectations of the job market.
The fair, which was held at the University’s Hill Station campus in Freetown, was held under the theme: “Employer Expectations and Pathways to Meaningful Employment.”
In his welcome address, the Registrar of the University, Mr. Aiah James, welcomed guests, industry representatives, students and staff. He recalled that Limkokwing started operations in Sierra Leone in 2016 and was officially launched in 2017, and has since maintained a semester career exhibition as a core academic tradition.
“The purpose of this career fair is to showcase and exhibit creativity within the University and to prepare our students for the world of work,” Mr. James said.
Giving the keynote statement, the Managing Director of Afriqia Solutions, Madam Darwish, explained the rationale for the theme, noting that many graduates have qualifications but lack understanding of what employers actually want.
She then introduced a high-powered panel of industry leaders comprising Mr. Hamza Hashim, Co-founder and CEO of Capitol Foods; Mr. Alfred Akib Bett, Founder and CEO of The Akibo Bett Group; Ms. Hawa Kallon, Software Engineer; and Madam Sylvia, Human Resource and Administrative Manager of International Consulting Services Ltd.
Contributing to the discussion, Madam Sylvia drew a clear line between confidence and competence. She warned students not to confuse talking well with performing well.
“Someone might have the confidence of talking but not the knowledge of how to perform what they are saying. Employers want both, but competence keeps you on the job,” she said.
Ms. Hawa Kallon, an alumna of the University, commended Limkokwing for grooming her and expanding her knowledge in her field, saying the practical training she received gave her an edge in the tech industry.
Mr. Hashim said employers are increasingly looking for employees who are willing to grow and eager to learn, rather than those who think they know it all.
“Attitude is everything. We want someone who is coachable, curious and ready to adapt,” he noted.
Mr. Bett elaborated on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in today’s workplace, stressing that while AI is critical for this generation, it still requires a knowledgeable user.
“AI is important in our generation, but it needs a user who has the know-how. You must learn how to use the tools, not fear them,” he said.
Madam Sylvia added that an intern who is willing to grow will improve faster than a comfortable permanent employee.
“The qualification matters, but the experience makes the difference,” she told the students.
The interactive session, which ended at 11:50am, was followed by a robust question-and-answer segment and an exhibition of students’ creative projects across faculties including ICT, fashion, multimedia and business.
Students described the fair as timely and eye-opening as they prepare for internships and employment in an increasingly competitive and technology-driven job market.
Limkokwing University of Creative Technology is one of Sierra Leone’s leading private universities focused on creative innovation, entrepreneurship and technology.