The standard of education in Sierra Leone before and immediately after independence was one of the best in the world.
According to the report “Overview of Education in Sierra Leone” educational system fell on hard times. Over a long period of neglect, the country witnessed an erosion of standards in its educational system.
“From 1970 to 1985, the average growth rate for primary school enrollment was slightly more than 6.0%, while for secondary school enrollment was just over 6.5%. From 1985 to 1990, the average annual growth rate for primary school enrollment fell to 2.0%, while for secondary school enrollment fell to 1.6%. Besides these enrollment concerns, the output of institutions at the technical/vocational and teacher education levels had also been found wanting.” the Report stated.
PLAN International, on Friday, started distribution of 10,000 books across Sierra Leone. According to, Laina Henderson, PLAN, Country Director, the distribution of supplementary reading materials to both primary and secondary schools is to improve students’ level of literacy and make reading culture firm in Sierra Leone.
According to the UN Human Development Report, the literacy rate in Sierra Leone, in 1995, was 31%. In 2000, the literacy rate was 37%. In 2010, the literacy rate was 39.8%. And, in 2016, the literacy rate was recorded at 48.1%. More than half of people over 15-years are illiterate.
“The educational system in Sierra Leone is improving but there is still a long way to go and Plan is supporting government’s effort in working for quality education.” Henderson stated.
“The distribution of books to 100 schools across the country,” Henderson noted, “is a holistic approach to create a friendly learning environment for students through pictures that makes reading a pleasure.”
Deliberating on the importance of education and its impact on the society, Henderson said, “A passion for reading creates a positive change both on individual and the society as at large.”
Almost 40% of students failed to obtain a single WASSCE (end of SSS exam) credit and only 10% achieved credits in four or more subjects. The English success rate is low, having dropped from 17% to 14% over 2007-10. Performance in math is worse, with a success rate of just 5.2% in 2010 and only 3.2% of candidates achieving a credit (compared with 47% in Nigeria) in 2009.
Handing over books to Bishop Jane Middle High School and UMC Primary at Goodrich, Henderson said “illiteracy remains a persistent challenge and therefore there is an urgent need to create the enabling environment for quality education.”
Aisatu Mansary, a JSS3 student spoke on the benefits of the gesture stating that the learning materials will add value to her academics and expose her to new ideas.
Madam Kpanga, head teacher, UMC Primary also registered the school’s commitment to effectively utilize the gesture and using the materials as a foundation to improve on the communication skills of pupils.
By Sylvia Villa
Monday May 22, 2017.
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