The Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, visited the Benevolent Islamic Secondary School in Makeni to assess the damage caused by a fire that broke out on August 7, 2025.

The incident reportedly resulted in the destruction of six classrooms, the principal’s office, and the examinations office.

Accompanied by Deputy Minister-1, Emily Kadiatu Gogra, and other officials, Minister Sackey engaged with key stakeholders, including Dr. Mohamed Mark Baba Sesay, Chairman of the Bombali District Council, Regent Chief Foday Conteh, and Abubakarr Jalloh, Head of the Free Quality Education Secretariat Northeast.

Related News

During the visit, Principal Abdul Salam Conteh addressed rumors circulating on social media, stating that the school authorities do not believe aggrieved pupils caused the fire.

He confirmed that the recent issuance of results had concluded peacefully, reinforcing the school’s commitment to transparency. Conteh noted ongoing land encroachment issues but refrained from speculating on the fire’s cause, urging patience as investigations continue.

“We were unable to remove anything. I cannot quantify the cost of the damage as of now. However, documents include past pupils’ external and internal statements of results, land certificates, and many other documents. At the same time, seven computers, two laptops, five desktops, three working printers, and laminating machines, among others, were all left burnt to dust,” Conteh reported.

Minister Sackey urged school authorities to compile a comprehensive damage report and to project a budget for future actions. “It is essential to understand the extent of the damage to plan effectively for recovery,” he stated.

Abubakarr Conteh, president of the Benevolent Old Students Association, assured the public that efforts are underway to secure alternative learning spaces for students. He announced the formation of a committee to investigate the incident, emphasizing the need for immediate action ahead of the school reopening in September.

Board chairman of the school, Philip Kanu, called on the minister and stakeholders for urgent assistance. He reiterated the importance of allowing proper investigations to take place, stating, “Please let’s allow the right authorities to investigate and bring out a fact-based evidence report on the cause of the fire.”

CSP Abu Bakaar Magona, Local Unit Commander of the Sierra Leone Police in Makeni, assured the community of a thorough and fair investigation. He noted that individuals have already made police reports, and updates will be provided as the investigation unfolds.

The damaged structure, built in 1977 with funds raised by women traders, is currently undergoing construction nearby. Authorities clarified that the fire is not linked to electrical issues and expressed gratitude to the Fire Force for their prompt response.