Press Releases

Freetown, Sierra Leone – March 20, 2025 — In a landmark move toward transforming education in Sierra Leone, the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE), in collaboration with the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) and ChildFund, officially launched the Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Working Group. This initiative is set to integrate social and emotional learning into the national education system, equipping children with critical life skills alongside academic knowledge.

“Investing in Social Emotional Learning ensures that children develop emotional intelligence, resilience, and social skills—qualities just as crucial as academic excellence,” said Hon. Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, Minister of Technical and Higher Education, during the launch event.

The SEL Working Group, co-created and led by ChildFund, is part of the organization’s broader strategy to promote children’s well-being through the development of vital skills like emotional regulation, communication, conflict resolution, self-awareness, and responsible decision-making.

As a next step, ChildFund is partnering with MBSSE to develop a national SEL framework targeting both primary schools and Teacher Training Institutions (TTIs). This framework will ensure that SEL is embedded in teaching and learning processes across the country.

ChildFund Sierra Leone’s Country Director, Victor Kamara, expressed appreciation to government ministries for their partnership and support. On behalf of ChildFund, he also donated computers and stationery to strengthen the work of the Directorate of Curriculum and Research (MBSSE) and the Directorate of Research, Learning, and Development (MTHE).

“ChildFund is a household name within the Ministry of Education,” said Hon. Emily Kadiatu Gogra, Deputy Minister of MBSSE. “Their long-standing commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s education sector—especially in underserved and hard-to-reach communities—has made a tangible difference in the lives of our children. We deeply value their collaborative approach in building the capacity of teachers, strengthening school systems, and promoting holistic child development. Their role in advancing Social Emotional Learning is yet another example of their dedication to nurturing not just smart students, but well-rounded citizens.”

UNICEF also welcomed the initiative, with Aiah Mbayo, Education Specialist for Foundational Learning, stating: “We are grateful to ChildFund for leading the way in SEL, and UNICEF looks forward to future partnerships.”

With the formation of this working group, Sierra Leone has taken a major step toward building a more inclusive and emotionally responsive education system, giving every child the opportunity to thrive both academically and personally.