AYV News, October 22, 202
Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) reached a significant milestone by officially reintegrating 3,079 out-of-school girls into the education system.
This initiative, spanning 28 communities across the districts of Moyamba, Kambia, Pujehun, and Koinadugu, demonstrates the government’s commitment to inclusive education and equal opportunities for all. The Deputy Ministers Madam Emily K. Gogra and Madam Mamusu Massaquoi with support from other senior officials led in three locations.
The reintegration ceremony held in Potoru, Pujehun district, attracted the presence of the Regent Chief, Emmanuel E. Mustapha, Mammy Queen, Haja Hawa Lahai, Deputy Director of Education, Teaching Service Commission Deputy Director, Principals, Head Teachers, UNFPA and Irish Aid representatives, District Learning Organisers and the MBSSE team from Freetown led by the Minister and Permanent Secretary, Conrad Sackey and Brima M Sowa, respectively.
The atmosphere was filled with joy and optimism as community members, educators, and students celebrated the return of these girls to formal schooling. Addressing the gathering, Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, emphasised the importance of creating supportive and inclusive environments that cater to the unique needs of each student.
His message resonated with the audience, reinforcing a shared commitment to ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to receive a quality education and fulfill her potential.
Minister Sackey also highlighted how the initiative aligns with the broader goals of President Julius Maada Bio’s administration. Providing universal access to education remains a cornerstone of the government’s New Direction policy and is embedded in the Medium-term National Plan (2019–2023), Education for Development, as well as the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He stated that the Ministry has received support from the Qatar Government to extend the reintegration program to 120,000 out-of-school girls.
The 2021 National Policy on Radical Inclusion has been instrumental in promoting accessible education for marginalized children. It ensures that schools are welcoming to children in underserved areas, pregnant girls, young mothers, and students with disabilities, removing barriers to education and fostering an inclusive learning environment for all.
With support from UNFPA, Irish Aid, and guidance from the Non-Formal Directorate led by Dr. Olive Musa, 3,079 out-of-school girls were identified and registered across 24 chiefdoms between June and July 2024. These girls, enrolled at primary, junior, and senior secondary levels, participated in remedial classes three times a week.
The curriculum included mathematics, English, life skills, and sexual and reproductive health to prepare them for a smooth transition back into formal schooling.
To further support their reintegration, each girl received essential learning materials and school supplies, including shoes, bags, books, mathematical set, sanitary pads, and two sets of uniforms, ensuring they were equipped to succeed in their academic journey.
This initiative reflects the transformative power of education to uplift individuals and communities. It reinforces Sierra Leone’s commitment to ensuring that no child is left behind as the nation strives for sustainable development and social progress.
