Education Minister Launches Cashbook Management System to Enhance Financial Transparency in Schools

The Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, has officially launched the Cashbook Management System, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at improving financial accountability in education.

The system will initially be introduced in 200 schools across five districts, setting a new standard for managing education funds efficiently.

This landmark initiative, implemented by the Institute for Governance Reform (IGR) with support from the European Union (EU), is designed to enhance the management and effective use of education funds.

With €1 million (equivalent to 25 million New Leones) in funding from the EU, the Cashbook Management System focuses on tracking income and expenditure in schools, ensuring greater transparency and accountability in the education sector.

The primary goal of the initiative is to reduce financial mismanagement, foster transparency, and build trust among schools, parents, and local communities.

By providing a clear record of fund allocation and expenditure, the system aligns with the ministry’s ongoing Free Quality Education agenda, reinforcing the government’s commitment to responsible financial management in schools.

Speaking at the launch event, Minister Sackey called on partners to expand the initiative beyond the initial five districts, advocating for its implementation across all 13,000 schools nationwide.

“It is crucial to build a culture of accountability and ensure that every Leone spent in education is properly managed to benefit students and schools across the country,” he stated.

The minister further expressed gratitude to the European Union, IGR, and all stakeholders for their unwavering commitment to improving education in Sierra Leone.

“Together, we are ensuring that every Leone spent in education is accounted for and used effectively,” he affirmed, reiterating the government’s dedication to providing quality education for all children.

As the Cashbook Management System is rolled out, it promises to be a game-changer in promoting financial transparency, ensuring that education funds reach their intended destination—improving schools and transforming lives.