By Kadijatu Bangura, D.S. Reporter
FREETOWN — The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education has defended its record on school materials, citing the nationwide distribution of more than 523,717 literacy books and 13,500 teacher guides as proof of government investment in foundational learning.
Minister Conrad Sackey gave the breakdown in response to concerns raised during the recent teachers’ strike over the availability of teaching and learning materials.
According to the Ministry, the distribution covers all five regions and 16 districts of Sierra Leone. The goal is to ensure every Primary One pupil receives a literacy book, while teachers are provided with guides that include lesson plans and formative assessment tools.
Sackey said the intervention represents a direct investment of approximately US$850,000 in early-grade education.
“This is not just about distributing books; it is about distributing hope, opportunity, and a brighter future,” the Minister said.
He described the distribution as the fulfilment of a government commitment to equip children and teachers nationwide with essential learning resources.
The Minister added that the book rollout is part of a broader multi-year strategy to strengthen foundational learning. Procurement for Primary Two materials is already underway, while materials for Primary Three are being developed under a planned three-year approach.
Sackey also clarified that the current distribution is separate from the Performance-Based Financing model, which has its own provision for additional school materials to support excellence. He said the nationwide rollout is a standalone government commitment meant to benefit pupils and teachers universally.
The programme is expected to reach schools across the country — from Waiwai Mountain to Sulima, and from the Western Peninsula to the Kamboi Hills — as government seeks to ensure no child is disadvantaged by location.
The Ministry said the documented distribution provides a basis for its response to claims on teaching and learning materials, while further interventions are planned under its long-term education strategy.
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