The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) has taken a significant step in strengthening digital learning opportunities at the Prince of Wales School in Sierra Leone. On September 30, 2026, the MBSSE, in partnership with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and funded by the Government of Japan, handed over ICT equipment to the school. This initiative aims to improve pupils' access to digital learning and enhance their ICT skills.
The handed-over equipment includes laptops, projectors, and screens to support the school's ICT laboratory. This development is expected to benefit the pupils beyond their time in school by equipping them with essential digital skills. The handover ceremony was attended by officials from the MBSSE and the Ministry of Youth Affairs, alongside the Principal and staff of the Prince of Wales School.
Chief Education Officer of the MBSSE, Edward Kpaka, emphasized that the computers are intended to help pupils develop digital skills. He encouraged the pupils to take full advantage of the equipment and use the opportunity to strengthen their digital competencies. This initiative is part of a broader project that targets both in-school and out-of-school youth to strengthen digital skills and entrepreneurship knowledge.
The project, according to Programmes Manager Madam Okafor, who spoke on behalf of UNOPS, seeks to provide young people with tools to use technology and entrepreneurship to improve their livelihoods. The initiative is not limited to the provision of ICT equipment but also includes ICT-related and entrepreneurship training, particularly for young people who are out of school.
Senior Assistant Secretary at the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Saiku Bah, also encouraged the pupils to think outside the box and make productive use of the laptops. He reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to supporting young people in Sierra Leone. The Ministry of Youth Affairs is working closely with the MBSSE to ensure the success of this initiative.
Minister Sackey highlighted the wider vision of the initiative, which includes the provision of ICT equipment, an e-learning management system, teacher training, access, and opportunities for young people. He noted that the success of the initiative will depend on the commitment of school leaders, teachers, and students, as well as continued support from partners.
Minister Sackey further stressed that technology must be accompanied by purpose and responsible use. He urged stakeholders to focus not only on the provision of equipment but also on the opportunities digital education can create for young people. The initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the education sector in Sierra Leone, particularly in enhancing digital learning and skills.
Key points
- The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education hands over ICT equipment to Prince of Wales School to enhance digital learning.
- The project targets both in-school and out-of-school youth to strengthen digital skills and entrepreneurship knowledge.
- The initiative includes ICT-related and entrepreneurship training, particularly for young people who are out of school.
