President Julius Maada Bio joined the people of Makeni in Bombali District to celebrate Annual Education Week at the University of Makeni. The event brought together educators, leaders, and international partners to showcase progress in Sierra Leone's education sector, driven by the Free Quality Education initiative launched in 2018.

Regent Chief Foday Conteh, representing 12 Paramount Chiefs of the district, praised the government’s inclusive education policies, noting their unifying impact and the hope they inspire. The Resident Minister of the North-East Region, Mr. Jalloh, emphasized the widespread impact of the initiative, which has positively influenced households across the nation.

Chief Education Officer Edward Kpaka described the celebration as part of a global effort to highlight education’s role in development and peace. He commended President Bio’s vision, which has earned international recognition, including from UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

Madam Saskia Goldman from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office reaffirmed the UK’s partnership with Sierra Leone, highlighting education’s transformative power and the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance learning.

This year’s theme, “Artificial Intelligence and Education,” underscored the role of technology in modernizing the education system. The Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Mr. Conrad Sackey, discussed how AI can personalize learning and improve efficiency, while Minister of Tertiary and Higher Education, Dr. Ramatulai Wurie, encouraged the responsible use of technology to align with national values.

In his keynote speech, President Bio reaffirmed education as the foundation of Sierra Leone’s national transformation. He emphasized inclusivity, ensuring every child, regardless of circumstances, has access to quality education. The President highlighted plans to incorporate AI literacy into the curriculum, promoting digital skills for the future.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment to fostering innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in education, reinforcing the nation's progress and ensuring that no child is left behind.