Chief Minister Calls for Affordable Public Higher Education in Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister, Dr. Moinina David Sengeh, has lauded President Julius Maada Bio’s groundbreaking achievements in education, emphasizing the transformative impact of the President’s Radical Inclusion agenda.

Speaking passionately about the strides made in basic and secondary education, Dr. Sengeh acknowledged the pressing need to make tertiary education equally accessible and affordable.

“President Bio has laid a foundation that is transforming our country,” Dr. Sengeh stated. “Hundreds of thousands of people who never had a chance at education now have a shot at life. Families who couldn’t afford education are now witnessing their children attend school. This is Radical Inclusion in action.”

Dr. Sengeh highlighted the significant progress in Sierra Leone’s educational landscape under President Bio’s leadership. He noted that public investment in education has opened doors for more children, particularly girls, to access learning opportunities. The expansion of higher education institutions nationwide has further strengthened the country’s educational infrastructure.

However, the Chief Minister acknowledged that challenges persist, particularly for families in the poorest households who struggle to afford tertiary education. Reflecting on his personal experience, Dr. Sengeh revealed the frequent requests he receives from citizens seeking financial assistance to pursue college or university education.

“On any given day, I receive a dozen requests from people asking me to personally pay their college fees. While I support many, I can’t possibly help everyone,” he said. “One day, I hope to see public education in tertiary institutions become affordable and accessible for all, just as President Bio has done for basic and secondary education.”

Dr. Sengeh underscored the need for expanded funding to make higher education a reality for all Sierra Leoneans. He proposed increasing the tax base and boosting national revenue as crucial steps toward achieving this goal.

“Educating everyone to their fullest potential requires bold action. We must expand our tax base and increase revenue to make public higher and tertiary education accessible to all. On this, one day, #WeWillDeliver,” he affirmed.

President Bio’s administration has received widespread recognition for its commitment to education, allocating 22% of the national budget to the sector. The free quality school education initiative has benefited over 2.6 million children since its inception in 2018, a move widely regarded as a pivotal step in addressing generational poverty in Sierra Leone.

Dr. Sengeh’s remarks highlight both the progress achieved and the urgent need for continued investment in education to secure a brighter future for Sierra Leone.