The Vice President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has announced the government’s commitment to expanding internet access to over 500 schools across the country.
Speaking at the inaugural Salone Civic Festival, organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education on Thursday, December 12, 2024, at Youyi Building in Freetown, Dr. Jalloh emphasized the administration’s dedication to advancing education through technology.
“This initiative aligns with President Julius Maada Bio’s vision for consistent improvements in education and research,” the Vice President stated.
He highlighted that the provision of internet services in schools is a key step toward modernizing Sierra Leone’s educational system and bridging the digital divide for students and teachers alike.
Dr. Jalloh also underscored the broader achievements of the Bio administration in the education sector, including the Free Quality School Education program, which has enabled over three million children to attend school without fees.
Additionally, he revealed plans to recruit 4,000 new teachers nationwide to further strengthen the country’s human resource capacity in education.
“Through these efforts, we are not only expanding access to education but also enhancing its quality,” he remarked.
Healthcare and Other National Developments
In addition to education, the Vice President highlighted significant strides in healthcare. He noted a marked reduction in maternal and infant mortality rates, attributed to the recruitment of thousands of health workers, the establishment of new health facilities, and increased midwifery education. These initiatives, he said, have contributed to a steady improvement in the country’s healthcare system.
The Vice President also spoke about other areas of progress under the Bio administration, including legal reforms, advancements in agriculture, energy expansion, improved civil and public service delivery, and strengthened international relations.
Dr. Jalloh concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to inclusive governance and sustainable development, emphasizing that the provision of internet access to schools reflects a forward-thinking approach to empowering future generations.
The Salone Civic Festival provided a platform to showcase these achievements and reaffirm the administration’s vision for a more digitally connected and educationally empowered Sierra Leone.