A delegation from the World Bank has completed a comprehensive field assessment of school infrastructure upgrades under Sierra Leone’s Free Education Project (FEPS), praising progress while noting key areas needing attention.

Led by World Bank Country Manager Dr. Abdu Muwonge, the delegation visited schools in Kenema and Bo Districts. Their mission focused on evaluating facilities built under Component 3 of the project, aimed at strengthening school-level development.

The team toured the Roman Catholic Primary School in Loppa Dama Chiefdom and the United Brethren for Christ Primary School in Kakua Chiefdom. Accompanied by FEPS Project Coordinator Ambrose Sesay, the delegation engaged with school staff, volunteer teachers, local leaders, and community members to gather feedback.

Community representatives expressed gratitude for the new buildings, which they say have improved student attendance and created better learning environments. However, concerns were raised about the shortage of trained teachers, lack of support for volunteer educators, and limited learning materials.

Dr. Muwonge assured stakeholders that their input would be shared with the Ministry of Education and donors, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement.

“We’re encouraged by the infrastructure developments and impressed by the communities’ involvement,” he said. “Spacious classrooms and functioning water and sanitation facilities show promising results.”

In Kenema, local authorities have even enacted bye-laws to combat absenteeism, with fines for parents whose children skip school without reason. The community’s women’s leader, who also serves as a Gender-Based Violence focal person, spoke of their commitment to protecting children from exploitation and abuse.

Dr. Muwonge highlighted the need for stronger support systems for volunteer teachers and reinforced the importance of local communities in protecting and uplifting children’s education.

The World Bank team reaffirmed its confidence in the Free Education Project’s impact and direction, promising to use insights from the visit to shape future improvements. Both the World Bank and FEPS say they remain committed to delivering inclusive, quality, and safe education to every child in Sierra Leone.