By: Saidu Jalloh
In a strong show of international cooperation, the Government of the People’s Republic of China has donated 1,030 metric tons of rice, equivalent to 27,600 bags, to Sierra Leone reaffirming its commitment to supporting the country’s education sector through enhanced nutrition.
Out of the total donation, 20,600 bags have been allocated to the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) to boost the School Feeding Program, a vital element of the Free Quality School Education (FQSE) initiative. The remaining 7,000 bags have been assigned to the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources.
On July 2, 2025, Mr. Brima M. Sowa, Permanent Secretary at MBSSE, led a delegation to the World Food Programme (WFP) storage facility in eastern Freetown to inspect the rice. Accompanied by senior ministry officials, including the Head of Procurement, Head of Finance, and the National Coordinator of FQSE, Mr. Sowa described the donation as a critical step in realizing the government’s goal of providing accessible, high-quality education for all.
“This generous contribution from the Chinese Government is not only timely but essential for advancing the Free Quality School Education Program, championed by His Excellency Rtd Brigadier Julius Maada Bio,” Mr. Sowa stated. “Nutrition plays a central role in improving school attendance, retention, and academic performance.”
Also speaking at the site, Mr. Augustine Koroma, National Coordinator of FQSE, underscored the importance of quality assurance. He noted that the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau will conduct laboratory testing to ensure the rice meets national safety and nutritional standards before distribution. He emphasized that the rice will support the upcoming academic year and reinforce the government’s determination to deliver free and quality education to every child.
This donation from China highlights the growing recognition by global partners that education is a pillar of sustainable development. Ensuring students are well-nourished directly contributes to better learning outcomes, economic resilience, and the development of a skilled workforce vital to national progress.
Through such partnerships, Sierra Leone continues to place education and youth development at the centre of its long-term growth strategy.