Section 9, The Universities Act, 2005

(1) The object for which each University is established isteaching, research, serving as an examining body and the provision of professional, community as well as commercial services. (2) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1), it shall be the function of each University to– (a) provide instruction in such branches of learning as it may think fit and make provision for research and for the advancement and dissemination of knowledge in such manner as may be determined by it; 4 5 Incorporation of University. Common seal. Retention and transfer of property, etc. Capacity of two Universities. Act No. 22 of 1972. Members of (b) provide the appropriate manpower needs, consistent with the overall socio-economic aims and aspirations of the country; (c) provide, as may be determined by it, external or extension services for persons who are not regularly enrolled in the University; (d) grant degrees, diplomas and certificates and such other awards as the University may determine; (e) preserve academic freedom and avoid discrimination in teaching and research, in the admission of students, the appointment of staff and in the granting of degrees, diplomas, certificates and other awards: Provided that it shall be lawful for the University to charge different fees for the admission of citizens and non-citizens; (f) preserve, enrich and assist in the development of the economy and welfare of Sierra Leone, in particular, and humanity in general, holding out the benefits of its endeavours to all nations without discrimination; (g) do all acts or things as are conducive to the attainment of the object stated in subsection (1). (3) In this section “discrimination” means different treatment to different persons attributable wholly or mainly to their respective descriptions by race, tribe, place of origin, sex, political opinions, colour, creed or disablement.