Sierra Leone's Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, recently engaged in discussions with the World Bank regarding the country's Education Sector Plan. The meeting, which took place on October 27, 2026, provided a platform for Minister Sackey to present a new response model aimed at addressing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in schools. This model, known as the Five Rs, is designed to strengthen the response to SGBV cases.
The Five Rs response model includes Recognising the signs of SGBV, Recording the facts of each case, Reporting through the appropriate channels, Referring survivors to relevant institutions, and Reviewing every case until justice is served. Minister Sackey emphasized that this model is crucial in creating a safe and protective environment for children in schools. He also highlighted the importance of involving men and boys in the fight against SGBV.
During the discussions with the World Bank, Minister Sackey focused on several key areas, including sustainability, prevention, and the establishment of a Presidential Task Force. This task force aims to translate commitments into action and strengthen school safety committees. The Minister stressed that schools should be safe spaces for children, free from fear and violence.
Minister Sackey urged anyone with information about SGBV in schools to speak up and report such cases by calling 8060. He emphasized that it is essential for the community to work together to prevent and address SGBV in schools. The Minister's engagement with the World Bank is part of a broader effort to improve the education sector in Sierra Leone.
The Education Sector Plan is a critical component of the government's efforts to improve education in Sierra Leone. The plan aims to provide quality education to all children, while also addressing the challenges of SGBV in schools. Minister Sackey's discussions with the World Bank are expected to yield positive outcomes for the education sector.
The issue of SGBV in schools is a significant concern in Sierra Leone. The government's efforts to address this issue are commendable, and the engagement with the World Bank is a step in the right direction. The Five Rs response model is a valuable tool in the fight against SGBV, and its implementation is expected to make a positive impact.
The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education is committed to creating a safe and protective environment for children in schools. The engagement with the World Bank and the implementation of the Education Sector Plan are critical components of this effort. The government is working to ensure that schools are safe spaces for children to learn and grow.
Key points
- Minister Conrad Sackey engages World Bank on Education Sector Plan and SGBV response model.
- The Five Rs response model aims to strengthen response to SGBV cases in schools.
- The government is working to create safe and protective environments for children in schools.
