At Fourah Bay College, we offer a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for success in their fields. Our continuous General Civil Engineering training leads to a Bachelor of Engineering (B. Eng.) degree, recognized for its rigorous curriculum and practical application.
We also focus on critical areas such as Water and Sanitation, where we assess the role of NGOs in providing essential water and sanitation facilities to rural populations in Sierra Leone. This initiative is part of our broader commitment to community engagement and sustainable development.
Additionally, our 'Water for Survival' program emphasizes local strategies for improving water access and sanitation practices. We are dedicated to fostering a vibrant Arts community, with plans to establish a Theater Arts Program that will enhance the cultural landscape of our campus.
At Fourah Bay College, we are committed to academic excellence and the holistic development of our students, ensuring they are well-prepared for future challenges.
Keeping Damp and Mould Under Control in Student Housing
The title of this post may sound far from engineering lectures, but mould and mildew are a real, everyday problem in Freetown's humid coastal climate, especially during the long rainy season. For students living in hostels, shared houses or rented rooms near campus, damp bathrooms are one of the most common sources of musty smells, stained walls and ruined belongings. The same principles taught in water and sanitation studies apply on a small scale at home: control moisture, keep surfaces clean and let air move.
Why bathrooms grow mould
Mould needs three things: moisture, warmth and something to feed on, such as soap residue, skin cells or fabric. A shower curtain that stays wet and folded after every wash gives it all three. Fabric curtains, particularly polyester ones with a water-resistant finish, can be washed and dried far more easily than cheap plastic liners, which tend to crack and hold black spots in their folds.
Practical habits that help
- Spread the curtain out after showering so it dries fully instead of bunching against the wall.
- Ventilate: open a window or leave the door ajar for a while after bathing.
- Wash fabric curtains regularly following the label, and dry them completely before rehanging.
- Wipe tiles and grout weekly with a mild cleaner; a diluted vinegar solution works for light growth.
- Never mix bleach with other cleaners, especially ammonia-based products, as the fumes are dangerous.
- Fix leaks early and report persistent damp to your landlord or hostel warden.
Health and shared living
Persistent mould can irritate the eyes, nose and airways, and people with asthma or allergies are often more sensitive. If symptoms continue, it is sensible to seek advice from a health professional. In shared accommodation, agreeing a simple cleaning rota avoids disputes and keeps everyone's space healthier.
Students weighing up where to live can find more about life around the college on our campus page, and those interested in the science behind clean water and hygiene may want to explore related courses on the programs page.
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