Freetown, 10th March, 2026 – The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) has issued a stern directive banning all forms of school camping within school premises across Sierra Leone, citing widespread misconduct that threatens the integrity of the country’s education system.
In a strongly worded press release, the Ministry warned proprietors, principals, head teachers, and administrators of both government and private schools to immediately halt the practice, which has been linked to unethical and unprofessional behaviour among some educators.
According to the Ministry, recent nationwide monitoring revealed disturbing trends: teachers neglecting lessons during normal school hours, schools organizing unauthorized camping classes, pupils being misled with false promises about external examinations, and reports of harassment or intimidation of students who refuse to attend such sessions.
“These practices are unacceptable and undermine the credibility of our education system,” the statement declared.
Key Directives include: All camping activities within school compounds are strictly prohibited, extra lessons may only be conducted outside school premises, in safe and supervised environments, such lessons must remain voluntary, with no coercion of pupils or parents.
Teachers and school heads are forbidden from harassing or pressuring students into attending extra classes. The Ministry warned that schools found violating the directive will face severe consequences, including investigations, suspension or dismissal of staff, withdrawal of government recognition, closure of institutions, and possible legal prosecution.
Inspection teams have been authorized to conduct surprise visits to ensure compliance.
“This is a final warning,” the release concluded, urging all school heads to inform their staff and enforce the ban without delay.
