Overview
The University of Makeni (UniMark) is the first private Catholic university in Sierra Leone, founded on 8 October 2005 as the Fatima Institute by the Diocese of Makeni. It received full university status in August 2009 and today serves approximately 3,500 students across its main campus in Makeni and a regional campus in Kabala.
UniMark is known for an education model that blends academic training with social impact and community service. The university also emphasizes research engagement, sustainable development, and applied learning—particularly through faculty-led projects and applied postgraduate pathways designed for working professionals.
UniMark’s academic and research activities include mental health advocacy and initiatives such as genomics-focused work through its Infectious Disease Research Laboratory.
2. General Information
| Name | University of Makeni |
| Established | 8 October 2005 (university status since August 2009) |
| Type | Private Catholic University |
| Location | Makeni City (plus Kabala regional campus), Northern Province, Sierra Leone |
| Students | ≈ 3,500 |
| Website | unimak.edu.sl |
3. Fee Structure
Because tuition and fees can vary by faculty, entry year, and program structure, the exact costs should be confirmed with UniMark directly. In general, applicants should expect private university fees to differ from public institutions, with postgraduate programs typically costing more due to specialized delivery and professional alignment.
| Program | Tuition / Fees |
| Undergraduate (Local or Regional) | Moderate fees; generally lower than some private options, and often lower than public institutions at comparable levels (varies by faculty) |
| Postgraduate (e.g. MBA, MSc) | Higher; tailored to international & professional standards (confirm current year rates) |
4. Academic Programs
- Diploma and certificate courses in nursing, special needs education, procurement & supply chain management
- Master’s programs such as MBA (Global Business & Sustainability, Entrepreneurship, Finance), MSc in Sustainable Development, and MA in Education
- Postgraduate diplomas and doctoral study options in Education and Sustainable Development (entry requirements apply)
If you’re comparing postgraduate options across Sierra Leone, you may also want to review other local university programs—start with the University of Sierra Leone for a broader public-university perspective on academic pathways.
5. Facilities
- Main and regional campuses, including Sylvanus Koroma Campus in Yoni District near Makeni
- University Innovation Hub supporting technology adoption and startup-style learning
- Infectious Disease Research Laboratory supporting genomics and public health research
- Faculty units equipped for practical and professional training in agriculture, social sciences, communication, and education
Students who prefer a research-and-career mix may find UniMark’s lab and innovation structures useful when building real-world experience alongside coursework. For broader cross-institution learning approaches, explore how other universities structure facilities and practical training in University of Management and Technology.
6. Accommodation
UniMark does not operate official dormitories. Most students arrange private or shared housing in Makeni City or nearby areas, and the university provides guidance and referrals through student support services.
- Private rental or shared housing near campus
- Student services support with housing referrals and local guidance
Before paying for any housing arrangement, confirm what support UniMark offers for new intakes during the academic year (especially for students traveling from other towns or districts).
7. Contact Information
- Email: info@unimak.edu.sl
- Phone: +232 76 670 769
- Address: Azzolini Highway, Makeni, Northern Province, Sierra Leone
For admissions support and application guidance, it’s recommended to contact the university team early in the cycle, as requirements and intake processes can change year to year.
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