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The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) has warned schools, teachers, and administrators against demanding payments from parents and guardians before releasing pupils’ report cards, describing the practice as illegal and unacceptable.
In a public notice, the Ministry said it has received reports of some schools requesting unauthorized fees before providing report cards at the end of academic terms.
The Ministry stressed that no school official is authorised to charge parents or guardians for the collection of report cards, adding that such demands contradict the Government’s commitment to providing Free Quality School Education for all pupils.
According to MBSSE, report cards are the right of every pupil and their parents or guardians, and access to them must not be tied to any form of payment.
The Ministry advised parents and guardians who are asked to make such payments to request official receipts and treat any unauthorized charges outside approved Ministry guidelines as a matter requiring immediate reporting.
Members of the public have been encouraged to report violations through the Ministry’s toll-free line, 8060, or by contacting senior officials of the Ministry. It added that all complaints will be investigated and appropriate action taken against schools or individuals found guilty of breaching the directive.
MBSSE further urged parents and guardians who have already made such payments to come forward with evidence to support their complaints.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to protecting access to quality education and eliminating financial barriers that prevent pupils from fully benefiting from Sierra Leone’s education system. It also called on parents, teachers, and school administrators to work together in upholding the integrity of the Free Quality School Education programme.
