President Julius Maada Bio celebrated the Annual Education Week in Makeni, Sierra Leone, at the University of Makeni. The event gathered local leaders, educators, and international partners to showcase the progress in Sierra Leone’s education system, largely due to the President’s Free Quality Education initiative.
Regent Chief Foday Conteh, speaking for the 12 Paramount Chiefs of Bombali District, thanked the government for its inclusive education policy and the recent appointment of the Resident Minister for the North-East Region. He highlighted the celebration’s role in fostering unity and hope within the community.
The Resident Minister, Mr. Jalloh, praised education’s transformative power in the district. He compared the Free Quality Education initiative to a child born in 2018 that has reached every home in Sierra Leone, bringing hope and development to families.
Chief Education Officer, Mr. Edward Kpaka, explained that Annual Education Week is part of a global effort to emphasize education’s importance in promoting peace and development. He commended President Bio’s vision for education, which has gained international recognition, including praise from UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
Madam Saskia Goldman, representing the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, discussed the UK’s partnership with Sierra Leone. She emphasized efforts to improve access to education, noting that Artificial Intelligence (AI) could significantly change the learning landscape. The UK is committed to promoting inclusive education, especially for girls and people with disabilities.
The Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Mr. Conrad Sackey, presented this year’s theme: “Artificial Intelligence and Education.” He stressed the importance of using technology to improve the education system’s transparency and efficiency. He urged for the integration of AI to provide personalized learning experiences for students.
Haja Dr. Ramatulai Wurie, Minister of Tertiary and Higher Education, highlighted how technology can empower learners. She encouraged educational professionals to adopt innovations responsibly, ensuring that new technologies align with Sierra Leone’s values and goals.
In his keynote speech, President Bio reaffirmed his government’s promise to uphold education as the key to national advancement. He stressed the importance of making quality education accessible to every Sierra Leonean, regardless of their background.
President Bio pointed out that technology, particularly AI, plays a crucial role in education today. He shared plans to incorporate AI literacy into school curricula and promote digital skills that will prepare students for the future job market. He viewed AI as a tool to enhance human capabilities rather than replace them, advocating for ethical AI use.
Furthermore, the President acknowledged the vital role teachers play in the education system. He expressed his gratitude for their hard work and reiterated his commitment to supporting and empowering educators.
He emphasized that sustainable educational reforms require a focus on environmentally friendly practices and accountability to ensure impactful educational investments. Strengthening these areas will help Sierra Leone achieve lasting results for its citizens.
The Annual Education Week wrapped up with a shared commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in education, ensuring that every child has the chance to learn and thrive.
