The Women's Forum for Human Rights and Democracy (WOFHRAD), with funding support from ActionAid Sierra Leone, has made a significant donation to three schools in Sella Limba Chiefdom, Karene District. On Thursday, 29th October 2026, WOFHRAD presented 200 fabricated wooden benches to schools in Kakamba, Masankorie, and Kadimba communities. This initiative aims to address the pressing issue of furniture shortages in these schools, which has been affecting teaching and learning.
The distribution arrangement saw Kakamba receiving 100 benches, with 50 allocated to its primary school and 50 to its secondary school. Masankorie and Kadimba communities each received 50 benches. According to WOFHRAD Project Officer Henrietta M. Bangura, the intervention was a response to concerns raised by schools during community engagements over inadequate furniture for pupils and students. The shortage had been particularly challenging for a school approved as an external examination centre.
The school, which had previously been forced to transport students long distances to Kamakwie to sit some examinations due to a lack of furniture, has benefited significantly from this donation. Bangura emphasized that the initiative aligns with the Government of Sierra Leone's commitment to promoting quality and inclusive education. She reaffirmed WOFHRAD's determination to work with partners and communities to create better learning opportunities for children.
Albert Allen Kargbo, Proprietor of Magbonkoni II Community Secondary School in Kakamba, welcomed the intervention, describing it as significant relief for the institution. He recalled the difficulties the school encountered during recent external examinations, when it had to borrow benches from the primary school to accommodate examination candidates. This often resulted in primary school pupils missing classes because their benches were being used by examination candidates.
Kargbo expressed his appreciation to WOFHRAD and ActionAid Sierra Leone, while also calling for further support to schools facing similar challenges. He noted that investing in schools like his through this intervention is a massive deal and that they look forward to more support. This donation is part of WOFHRAD and ActionAid Sierra Leone's broader efforts to support communities and contribute to national development.
The collaboration between WOFHRAD and ActionAid Sierra Leone has also led to similar interventions in Bombali District. Their joint efforts aim to address critical educational needs and improve learning conditions across Sierra Leone. By providing essential furniture, they are helping to create a more conducive learning environment for pupils and students.
The donation of 200 wooden benches to schools in Karene District is a testament to the commitment of WOFHRAD and ActionAid Sierra Leone to enhancing educational infrastructure. This initiative not only addresses immediate needs but also underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in driving positive change in communities.
Key points
- WOFHRAD and ActionAid Sierra Leone donate 200 wooden benches to schools in Karene District.
- The donation aims to address furniture shortages and improve learning conditions in schools.
- This initiative aligns with the Government of Sierra Leone's commitment to promoting quality and inclusive education.
