25/09/2026
EBKUST HOSTS EXECUTIVE TRAINING PROGRAM ON MARKET SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT
The Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology (EBKUST), Makeni Campus, has successfully hosted an Executive Training Program on Market Systems Development (MSD) from 21st24th September 2026.
The programme was organized in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Training Centre (ITC), bringing together participants from across Africa to strengthen their knowledge and practical application of Market Systems Development approaches.
The training provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of market systems and systems thinking, with practical sessions focusing on value chain analysis, stakeholder engagement, political economy analysis, and the design of effective market-based interventions. The program also highlighted the importance of gender, youth, and social inclusion in promoting sustainable and inclusive economic development.
Participants explored strategic approaches to market systems development, including the Adopt–Adapt–Expand–Respond framework, inclusive business models, blended finance, and impact investment.
Discussions also examined the importance of collaboration among government institutions, development partners, private-sector actors, and other stakeholders in strengthening market systems.
Particular emphasis was placed on sustainability, green value chains, climate-resilient business models, monitoring, and results measurement.
Participants were encouraged to apply the knowledge and practical tools acquired to address market constraints and create opportunities for inclusive economic growth within their respective contexts.
A major component of the program was the Action Planning Lab, which provided participants with an opportunity to develop individual and institutional action plans for applying MSD principles in practice. The plans were reviewed and strengthened through feedback and peer learning.
The training ultimately enhanced participants’ capacity in value chain mapping, stakeholder analysis, intervention design, inclusive business development, climate resilience, results measurement, and institutional planning.
Through its partnership with ILO and ITC, EBKUST continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing relevant professional and executive learning opportunities that respond to contemporary development challenges.
The program successfully combined theory, practical application, international perspectives, and local experiences, including lessons from Sierra Leone’s Opportunity Salone Project. Participants concluded the program is better equipped to design, implement, and measure market systems interventions that contribute to inclusive, sustainable, and resilient economic development.
PR Unit EBKUST