Makeni, Bombali District, January 24, 2025 – President Julius Maada Bio attended the Annual Education Week at the University of Makeni. The event gathered leaders, educators, and international partners to focus on advancements in Sierra Leone’s education sector, driven by the Free Quality Education initiative.
Regent Chief Foday Conteh welcomed President Bio on behalf of Bombali District’s 12 Paramount Chiefs. He expressed gratitude for the government’s inclusive education policy and highlighted the unity and hope brought to the district through this celebration.
Mr. Jalloh, Resident Minister for the North-East Region, praised the transformative impact of education in the district. He described the Free Quality Education initiative as a “child born in 2018” that has reached every household in Sierra Leone.
Chief Education Officer Mr. Edward Kpaka explained that Annual Education Week is part of a United Nations initiative to emphasize education’s role in global peace and development. He commended President Bio’s vision for Free Quality Education, which has received international recognition from UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
Madam Saskia Goldman from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office highlighted the UK’s partnership with Sierra Leone to improve education access. She noted AI’s potential in transforming learning and reaffirmed support for inclusive education.
Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education Mr. Conrad Sackey focused on this year’s theme: “Artificial Intelligence and Education.” He emphasized technology’s role in enhancing transparency and efficiency within the education system.
Haja Dr. Ramatulai Wurie, Minister of Tertiary and Higher Education, stressed technology as an empowerment tool and encouraged responsible innovation aligning with Sierra Leone’s values.
In his keynote address, President Bio reiterated his commitment to making education central to national transformation. He emphasized inclusivity in ensuring access to quality education for all Sierra Leoneans.
President Bio discussed technology’s role in modern education and plans to integrate AI literacy into curricula while promoting digital skills. He called for investments in ethical AI frameworks and assistive technologies.
The President acknowledged educators’ dedication as crucial to the education system’s backbone and reaffirmed government support for teachers.
He stressed sustainability in educational reforms and urged stakeholders to prioritize environmentally sustainable practices while maintaining accountability to maximize educational investments’ impact.
The celebration concluded with a renewed commitment to fostering innovation, inclusivity, and excellence within Sierra Leone’s education sector.
