Excel Academy Unveils Media Studio To Inspire Next Generation of Journalists

By Marilyn King
The management of Excel Daycare, Nursery and Academy School has taken another bold step in promoting practical education by launching the Excel Media Studio and the school’s official Newsletter. This initiative is aimed at nurturing future journalists, broadcasters and media professionals in Sierra Leone.
The epic ceremony took place on Wednesday, 8th July 2026, at the school’s campus in Freetown and attracted government officials, media practitioners, teachers, parents and pupils.
The newly established Excel Media Studio is designed to empower young learners by providing them with hands-on experience in journalism, broadcasting, public speaking and digital storytelling, while encouraging creativity, innovation and responsible communication.
Speaking at the launch, teacher Mr. Brian Koroma said the establishment of the media studio represents another important milestone in the school’s commitment to preparing learners for the opportunities and challenges of the modern world.
He explained that the initiative is intended to provide pupils with a solid foundation in media and communication, equipping them with practical skills that will enable them to excel in an increasingly digital society.
Representing the Minister of Tourism, Assistant Director at the Ministry of Tourism, Mr. Robert Leigh, congratulated the school’s management, teachers, parents and pupils for embracing innovation in education.
He described the media studio as a significant investment in the future of Sierra Leone’s young people, noting that it would broaden students’ knowledge while providing a platform to develop their talents and pursue careers in the creative industry.
Mr. Leigh attributed the achievement to the vision, determination and resilience of the school’s proprietress, Mrs. Onikeh Elizabeth King, whose commitment, together with the support of her husband, has continued to transform the institution into a centre of excellence.
“The media studio bridges the gap between passion and profession by giving students the opportunity to discover and develop their creative abilities,” he said.
In her remarks, Mrs. Onikeh Elizabeth King said Excel Academy is a mixed institution offering education from daycare through secondary school, with a strong focus on both academic excellence and practical life skills.
She disclosed that the school recently commissioned a modern science laboratory where students are already producing body sprays, hand sanitisers, hand wash and water filtration systems, all of which were displayed during the event.
According to her, proceeds from products made by the pupils will be deposited into individual bank accounts to encourage financial literacy and cultivate a culture of saving from an early age.
Mrs. King also highlighted the school’s Creative Arts Department, stressing that Excel Academy is committed to developing well-rounded learners capable of making meaningful contributions to society.
“As we train the leaders of tomorrow, we believe Sierra Leone’s future will be brighter,” she said.
She expressed appreciation to God for the school’s achievements and thanked the Ministry of Tourism, the President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), as well as the school’s sponsors, Rokel Commercial Bank and JMan Group of Companies, for their continued support.
Delivering the keynote address, SLAJ President, Mr. Alhaji Manika Kamara, commended the management of Excel Academy for what he described as a visionary investment in media education.
He noted that establishing a media studio within an educational institution goes beyond acquiring equipment; it is an investment in creativity, critical thinking, ethical journalism and responsible communication.
He said the facility would provide young people with the confidence and practical skills needed to tell their own stories, engage constructively with society and prepare for careers in today’s fast-changing information landscape.
“SLAJ believes that quality journalism begins with curiosity, integrity, truthfulness and responsibility,” Mr. Kamara stated.
He expressed hope that the studio would become a vibrant learning centre where students would innovate, communicate responsibly and positively impact their communities.
He also assured the school of SLAJ’s support, promising that members of the association would be available as guest speakers, lecturers and mentors whenever invited.
Launching the school’s newsletter on behalf of the Director-General of the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC), Madam Tillay Koroma, Head of News and Current Affairs at SLBC, praised the initiative as an important step towards developing future media professionals.
She congratulated the pupils for having access to a modern media studio where they could learn to tell stories, share ideas and build confidence.
Madam Koroma also applauded Mrs. King for her unwavering dedication to educational innovation and encouraged the pupils to continue learning, asking questions and pursuing their dreams.
“Some of you will become journalists, television presenters, radio broadcasters, writers, teachers, doctors and engineers who will contribute positively to Sierra Leone’s development,” she told the students.
She further commended teachers and parents for their continued support in nurturing the children’s talents and character.
The event ended with the official unveiling of the Excel Media Studio Newsletter, followed by a guided tour of the new media studio and impressive media presentations by the pupils, bringing the memorable occasion to a successful close.