Sierra Leone President launches free education program

Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio has launched his programme of free education for 1.5 million primary and secondary school children starting from September.

This move is in fulfillment of one of his key election pledges.

“I promised free education during the election and I’m here to implement it,” Bio said during an official launch ceremony.

While no financial details were provided about the overall cost of the scheme, Bio said he would donate three of his monthly salaries to it.

Bio also said that the state would cover tuition fees and teaching materials and warned that parents would be fined or even jailed if they did not send their children to school.

“I encourage parents and guardians to provide uniform, shoes and continue their traditional role of home supervision and coaching,” he said.

Bio called on “development partners and the private sector to support our free education initiative for the development of the country. Education is a fundamental right for all Sierra Leoneans.”