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BV EXT Beasts assembled for ceremony
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LV President Siaka Stevens at rear of precession of University officials down steps
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SV Mayor of Freetown (Centre seated)
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LV President mounts platform
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CU President's wife watches
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SV & CU President Stevens speaking
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SV University officials & guests seated
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SV President presents degrees to Paramount Chief Kaikal & others as audience looks on (5 shots)
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SV President conferring degrees on new graduates
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Initials ESP/1632 ESP/1644



Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: Dr. Siaka Stevens, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, was installed as Chancellor of the University of Sierra Leone on Sunday (14 January). In his maiden speech the new Chancellor promised he would give maximum support to the preservation of academic freedom, and pledged that his government would do likewise.

At the annual congregation ceremony, which was held in the Adjai Crowther Amphitheatre of Fourah Bay College, were people from all walks of life. Dignitaries included Cabinet Ministers, members of the Diplomatic Corps and religious Heads.

Dr. Stevens also said it would be tragic if the University failed to identify itself with the aims, aspirations, joys, sorrows, difficulties and the successes of the people of Sierra Leone. He said the University should not play the role of a spectator, but should take an active part in helping to determine the future of Sierra Leone.

SYNOPSIS: Bierra laesae from all walks of life gathered in the Adjai Crowther Amphitheater of fourth Bay College, to watch their President arrive for the annual Congregation Ceremony. During the ceremony, President Stevens was installed as Chancellor of the University of Sierra Leone. He went on to take up his rightful place alongside the University's hierarchy.

In his opening speech, the new Chancellor promised to give his full support to the preservation of academic freedom. Dr. Stevens also said it would be tragic if the University failed to identify itself with the aims, aspirations, joys, sorrows, difficulties and the successes of the people of Sierra Leone. He said the University should not play the role of a spectator, but should take an active part in helping determine the future of Sierra Leone. Six honorary graduates, including Paramount Chief Kaikai, received doctorate degrees from the new Chancellor. Dr. Stevens also conferred degrees on a number of new graduates.