Makeni, Bombali District, January 24, 2025 – President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone graced the Annual Education Week celebration at the University of Makeni, an event that underscored the nation’s progress in education, particularly through his flagship Free Quality Education initiative.
This gathering brought together a diverse group of leaders, educators, and international partners, all united in their commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in Sierra Leone. The celebration commenced with a warm welcome from Regent Chief Foday Conteh, who represented the 12 Paramount Chiefs in Bombali District. In his address, Chief Conteh expressed heartfelt gratitude for the government’s inclusive education policies and the recent appointment of the Resident Minister for the North-East Region.
He emphasized the significance of this celebration in fostering unity and hope within the district, highlighting the positive impact of educational advancements on the community. Mr Jalloh, the Resident Minister for the North-East, spoke passionately about the transformative power of education in the district.
He likened the Free Quality Education initiative to a “child born in 2018,” which has since matured to reach every household in Sierra Leone, instilling hope and promoting development. His remarks reflected a deep appreciation for the government’s efforts to make education accessible to all. Chief Education Officer Mr Edward Kpaka elaborated on the importance of the Annual Education Week, which aligns with a United Nations initiative aimed at showcasing the role of education in fostering global peace and development.
He praised President Bio’s vision for Free Quality Education, noting its international recognition, including commendations from UN Secretary-General António Guterres. Madam Saskia Goldman, a Human Development Counsellor from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, highlighted the strong partnership between the United Kingdom and Sierra Leone. She commended the ongoing efforts to improve educational access and discussed the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing the learning landscape. Goldman reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting inclusive education, particularly for girls and individuals with disabilities, reinforcing the idea that education is a fundamental right for all. Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Mr. Conrad Sackey, focused on this year’s theme, “Artificial Intelligence and Education.” He stressed the crucial role of technology in enhancing transparency and efficiency within the education system. Minister Sackey called for the integration of AI to personalize learning experiences and improve educational outcomes for both students and educators, emphasizing that technology should serve as an ally in the educational journey.
Haja Dr. Ramatulai Wurie, Minister of Tertiary and Higher Education, echoed the sentiment regarding the importance of technology as a tool for empowerment. She urged educational stakeholders to embrace innovation responsibly, ensuring that the integration of AI aligns with Sierra Leone’s cultural values and national goals. In his keynote address, President Bio reiterated his government’s steadfast commitment to education as the bedrock of national transformation. He underscored the principle of inclusivity, ensuring that every Sierra Leonean has access to quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances.
The President highlighted the critical role of technology, particularly AI, in modern education, revealing plans to incorporate AI literacy into school curricula and promote digital skills essential for thriving in an increasingly automated world. President Bio emphasized that AI should be viewed as a tool to enhance human potential rather than replace it. He called for investments in ethical AI frameworks and assistive technologies to ensure that education remains a human-centred endeavour. Acknowledging the dedication of educators, President Bio recognized them as the backbone of the education system. He expressed gratitude for their tireless contributions and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting and empowering teachers, recognizing their vital role in shaping the future of the nation. The President concluded his address by emphasizing the need for sustainability in educational reforms. He urged all stakeholders to prioritize environmentally sustainable practices and maintain accountability to maximize the impact of investments in education. By strengthening these foundational pillars, Sierra Leone can continue to achieve meaningful outcomes for its citizens. The Annual Education Week celebration culminated in a renewed commitment to fostering innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in Sierra Leone’s education sector, ensuring that no child is left behind in the pursuit of knowledge and opportunity.
