This initiative is being funded by the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) and other organizations, with a total investment of $65 million aimed at improving the nation’s educational infrastructure.
During the groundbreaking ceremony, President Bio expressed sincere appreciation to BADEA and its partners for their trust and confidence in his administration.
“This $65 million project for the construction, rehabilitation, refurbishment, and equipping of schools and technical colleges reflects our commitment to education and the international community’s faith in our vision,” he stated.
The President outlined the project’s scope, which involves the construction of new facilities and the renovation of existing ones across four government secondary schools and two technical colleges in Sierra Leone. He acknowledged the challenges in securing funding but noted that his government’s successful track record in combating corruption, promoting human capital development, and empowering women and girls were instrumental in obtaining the necessary approvals.
“I was able to convince the funders due to our commitment to transparency, our efforts to enhance Sierra Leone’s image, and our focus on establishing a robust educational foundation for future generations,” President Bio added. He also encouraged parents to actively engage in their children’s education, emphasizing that a strong educational foundation is crucial for lifelong success.
Deputy Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kadiatu Alie, referred to the initiative as a significant capital investment, stating that the government is contributing an additional $3 million, bringing the total project funding to $68 million. She highlighted the project’s importance for both current and future students, calling it a “timely and valuable contribution to the nation’s development.”
Mustapha J. Mansaray, Principal of Kenema Government Secondary School, expressed his gratitude for the inclusion of his school in the expansion plans, describing it as a “dream come true.” He emphasized that the improved facilities would greatly enhance the learning environment, enabling the school to accommodate more students and further support the Free Quality Education program.
ABJ/APA