Sierra Leone Explores Education Collaboration With Cuba

February 27, 2024

Sierra Leone's Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE), Conrad Sackey, recently met with the Cuban Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Her Excellency Madam Norma Sanchez Aguila, to discuss potential collaborative efforts in the education sector.

The meeting underscored the longstanding partnership between the two nations, with Cuba providing vital medical support to Sierra Leone during health crises such as the Ebola outbreak and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sackey praised Cuba's excellence in medical education, citing the success of three Sierra Leonean medical students who excelled at a Cuban university. He also commended Cuba's commitment to education, which is reflected in its high literacy rates.

The Minister expressed particular interest in Cuba's innovative literacy program, "Yo, sí puedo" ("Yes, I Can"), which has effectively addressed illiteracy on a global scale.

He stated, "I am eager to continue these discussions and explore new ways for Cuba to assist in strengthening our education system in Sierra Leone."

The Minister's objective is to ensure the provision of free and high-quality education, promoting universal access to the national school system.

Sierra Leone and Cuba continue to foster collaboration in various sectors, with education being the latest focus of their partnership.