By Davida Spaine-Solomon
Falaba, 30th March 2026- A $120 million investment to digitize classrooms across Sierra Leone is set to reach Falaba District, as the government accelerates efforts to modernize education and expand access nationwide.
Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, made the announcement during the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s Civic Day Series in Falaba on March 24, outlining a partnership with Emerging World Wide to supply computer tablets to schools across the country.
“This $120 million partnership will support the distribution of tablets to schools nationwide, including Falaba, as we work to integrate technology into teaching and learning,” Sackey said.
He positioned the initiative as part of broader reforms aimed at improving learning outcomes and preparing students for a digital future.
Highlighting national progress, the Minister said the number of schools has grown from 10,000 to about 13,700, with more than 3.4 million pupils now enrolled and over 12,000 teachers recruited.
“The Free Quality Education programme has removed financial barriers for families, while our Radical Inclusion Policy ensures that no child is left behind,” he noted, adding that in some communities, girls’ enrollment now exceeds that of boys.
In Falaba, Sackey pointed to steady gains in access and performance, particularly in examination readiness. All seven senior secondary schools in the district have submitted Continuous Assessment Scores (CAS), ensuring full student participation in public exams.
Enrollment currently stands at 711 boys and 851 girls, while examination infrastructure has expanded significantly—from three NPSE centres in 2018 to 23 today, alongside 13 BECE centres and five WASSCE centres.
On teacher development, the Minister disclosed that 7,500 teachers have been reassessed for salary upgrades, while 28,000 have undergone training in literacy and numeracy.
He, however, acknowledged ongoing challenges, including delays in payroll placement and examination logistics.
“We recognize the difficulties experienced and I want to assure you that corrective measures are being implemented,” Sackey said, citing strengthened partnerships with institutions such as the World Bank and support from the defence sector to improve logistics.
Reaffirming government’s commitment, he stressed that the focus remains on expanding access, improving quality, and ensuring inclusive education for all.
“Our goal is clear: no child, especially in districts like Falaba, must be left behind,” he emphasized.
