By Mariama Bundu
President Julius Maada Bio has launched a nationwide early childhood education initiative aimed at expanding access to quality learning for young children across Sierra Leone.
The programme, known as the Salone Pekin fo Play en Lan Outcome Fund Programme, seeks to strengthen early childhood development and improve learning outcomes for children aged 3 to 5 years.
It is expected to reach over 29,000 children across 87 community-based early childhood education centres over the next three years.
The $15.3 million initiative is being implemented by the Education Outcomes Fund in partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone through the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education. It also receives support from the LEGO Foundation, the Embassy of Denmark, and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
Speaking at the launch in Freetown, President Bio reaffirmed his government’s commitment to education, noting that more than 20% of the national budget continues to be allocated to the sector. He also highlighted gains from the Free Quality Education initiative, which has increased school enrolment by over one million children.
The President emphasized the importance of early childhood education in shaping national development, describing it as a foundation for lifelong learning and opportunity.
He further revealed that about 170,000 children are currently enrolled in early childhood programmes nationwide, and called on the private sector to support the expansion of the initiative.
President Bio concluded by reaffirming his government’s commitment to investing in children as the country’s future.
