The First Lady of Sierra Leone, Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Bio, who also serves as President of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), has pledged her full support for the global Joint Statement on protecting education from attack, issued by the Education Above All Foundation.
In a letter addressed to Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of the Education Above All (EAA) Foundation, Her Excellency formally endorsed the Joint Statement released on the occasion of the United Nations International Day to Protect Education from Attack, observed on September 8, 2025.
Her Excellency expressed Sierra Leone’s strong support for the global call to safeguard children, teachers, and schools, describing attacks on education as unacceptable. “Sierra Leone shares the grave concern expressed in the Joint Statement and joins the unified call to protect learners, educators, and education facilities,” she affirmed.
As part of her commitment, the First Lady pledged to consistently advocate in both regional and global forums for zero tolerance towards attacks on schools and teachers. She also committed to supporting children affected by conflict through mental health services, accelerated learning, and safe return-to-school programs, with a special focus on girls.
She further committed to promoting practical measures that ensure the safety of schools and prevent their use for military purposes. Additionally, she pledged to work closely with Education Above All, UN agencies, civil society, and the private sector to mobilize resources for learning continuity and recovery in crisis-affected areas.
This confirmation letter was one of the highlights of Her Excellency’s visit to Qatar last year, where she strengthened ties with Education Above All and deepened Sierra Leone’s commitment to advancing global education. It demonstrates her unwavering dedication to ensuring that every child has the right to safe and uninterrupted education, even in the face of conflict and crisis.
𝐁𝐲 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐲 𝐕𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐲
