By Joseph Momoh, Reporter D.S.
In a landmark move to strengthen emotional intelligence and social skills among children, ChildFund Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the Ministries of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) and Technical and Higher Education (MTHE), has officially launched the National Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Technical Working Group. The initiative was unveiled at a ceremony held at Country Lodge on Thursday, March 20, with the objective of integrating SEL into Sierra Leone’s education system for a more holistic approach to child development.
During the event, Hon. Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, Minister of Technical and Higher Education, emphasized the critical role of SEL in shaping children’s futures beyond mere academic excellence. “Investing in Social Emotional Learning ensures that children develop emotional intelligence, resilience, and social skills—qualities just as crucial as academic success,” she stated, reaffirming the government’s commitment to embedding SEL as a core component of the country’s education framework.
ChildFund’s SEL initiative aims to cultivate essential life skills, including communication, emotional regulation, self-awareness, conflict resolution, relationship management, and decision-making. The organization is partnering with the Ministry of Education to develop a national SEL framework tailored for primary schools and Teacher Training Institutions (TTIs) to systematically incorporate SEL practices across all educational levels.
Deputy Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Hon. Emily Kadiatu Gogra, commended ChildFund’s unwavering dedication, noting its long-standing partnership with the ministry in supporting education, particularly in hard-to-reach areas. “ChildFund is a household name within the Ministry of Education. We appreciate their commitment to reaching underserved communities and fostering the development of children, teachers, and schools,” she remarked.
The event also featured remarks from Aiah Mbayo, UNICEF’s Education Specialist for Foundational Learning, who lauded ChildFund for its leadership in promoting SEL and expressed UNICEF’s eagerness to collaborate on future initiatives.
In support of the successful implementation of SEL programs, ChildFund Sierra Leone’s Country Director, Victor Kamara, donated computers and stationery to the Directorate of Curriculum and Research (MBSSE) and the Directorate of Research, Learning, and Development (MTHE). He expressed gratitude to the ministries for their collaboration and emphasized ChildFund’s commitment to creating a nurturing learning environment that fosters both academic and emotional growth.
The launch of the National SEL Technical Working Group marks a significant stride toward embedding social-emotional learning within Sierra Leone’s educational landscape, equipping children with the skills needed to navigate life with confidence, empathy, and resilience. As the initiative unfolds, stakeholders anticipate lasting benefits for students and educators alike, fostering a more inclusive and supportive learning environment across the country.
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