In the wake of the tragic deaths of two kindergarten pupils found inside a parked vehicle at the National Pentecostal School, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, has pledged immediate and decisive action to improve school safety.

Minister Sackey personally led a comprehensive safety assessment of the school grounds, describing the incident as a “painful wake-up call” that necessitates urgent measures. “School safety is not a privilege, it is a right,” he stated.

The Minister confirmed that the Ministry will thoroughly review the findings of the police investigation once completed and take appropriate actions to address any identified safety gaps or lapses. He also instructed for communication with the Police Media team to ensure adherence to reporting guidelines.

Following the assessment, Minister Sackey held consultations with community members, parents, and teachers to discuss preventative measures. Key concerns were raised, particularly regarding the reopening of the school as transitional exams approach.

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In response, the Minister announced that the primary and secondary sections of the National Pentecostal School will reopen on Tuesday, following the Ramadan holiday. However, the kindergarten section will remain closed until all safety hazards are fully addressed, acknowledging the heightened vulnerability of younger children.

“Toddlers require extra care,” Minister Sackey emphasized. He further assured that safety measures will be continuously reinforced as the primary and secondary schools resume.

The Ministry plans to conduct further engagements with School Management Teams (SMTs) to solidify its commitment to creating safer learning environments. “Our efforts will not stop until every child is safe,” Minister Sackey declared.

Addressing the bereaved families, Minister Sackey expressed his deepest condolences. “My heart is with you. While no action can bring back these young souls, we will honor their memory by ensuring that no other child suffers the same fate.”