In a bid to alleviate educational challenges faced by marginalized pupils, the Education and Development Initiative (EDI) has provided financial support to 100 students across four schools in the Western Area.

Through its “Operation Lift a Pupil” initiative, EDI distributed bursaries totaling NLe 6,000 to students from both Western Rural and Urban schools, aiming to ease the burden on underprivileged families and promote academic excellence.

The schools benefiting from the initiative include FAWE Primary School, FAWE Junior Secondary School (JSS) in Grafton, SM Broderick Municipal JSS on Fergusson Street, and New Creation Community Primary School.

Each of the schools received financial aid for 20 selected pupils, providing them with much-needed support for their educational needs.

The initiative, which has been operational since 2014, officially launched its bursary project as part of EDI’s broader goal to support the government’s efforts in improving education.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, EDI representative Nabie Yamane underscored the organization’s mission to give back to society by empowering future generations.

“Our aim is to support the government of Sierra Leone by focusing on education,” Yamane said. “This initiative is about paying it forward. Many of us have benefited from education ourselves, and this is our way of ensuring the next generation has similar opportunities. We are proud to be supporting these 100 students today.”

While EDI has also contributed to the health sector in the past, Yamane emphasized that the organization’s primary focus is on education, with plans to expand its reach in the future.

Representing the school administrations, Madam Augusta B. Sesay, Principal of FAWE JSS, expressed her gratitude to EDI for selecting their students as beneficiaries of the bursary. “We are deeply appreciative of this support.

It not only helps the students and their families financially but also serves as a great motivator for the children to excel academically,” Sesay remarked.

Rugiatu Conteh, the mother of one of the beneficiaries, echoed this sentiment. “I feel very grateful for this support. The money will not only help my son’s education but also assist his siblings. It’s a big relief for our family.”

The bursary distribution took place on the respective school premises, where both pupils and parents expressed their appreciation for the initiative.

As EDI continues to focus on providing pathways for disadvantaged students, the organization hopes that this financial aid will inspire the children to strive for academic success and brighter futures.

The “Operation Lift a Pupil” initiative highlights EDI’s commitment to reducing barriers to education and fostering opportunities for young learners, ensuring that every child has the chance to reach their full potential.