President Julius Maada Bio led celebrations at the University of Makeni during Sierra Leone's Annual Education Week, emphasizing the progress made under the Free Quality Education (FQE) initiative.

The event highlighted education as a cornerstone of national development. Regent Chief Foday Conteh commended the government’s inclusive education policies, praising the unity and hope created through the FQE program. Similarly, North-East Region Minister Mr. Jalloh described the initiative as a groundbreaking success that has positively impacted families nationwide.

Chief Education Officer Mr. Edward Kpaka linked the initiative to global goals, noting that President Bio's efforts in education have earned international recognition. This year’s theme, “Artificial Intelligence and Education,” focused on integrating technology to enhance learning outcomes.

UK Human Development Counsellor Madam Saskia Goldman underscored the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education and pledged continued support for marginalized groups. Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education Mr. Conrad Sackey advocated for using AI to address educational challenges, while Minister of Tertiary and Higher Education Dr. Ramatulai Wurie emphasized ethical AI practices aligned with local values.

In his keynote speech, President Bio reaffirmed his commitment to quality education, announcing plans to integrate AI literacy into school curricula and prioritize digital skills. He recognized educators as pivotal to the education system’s success and stressed the importance of accountability and sustainable practices.

The week concluded with a renewed pledge to advance innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in education, ensuring every child in Sierra Leone has access to quality learning opportunities.