By: Thaimu Bai Sesay

The Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) Conard Sackey has issued a strong warning to school leaders nationwide, giving them 24 hours to explain why their Continuous Assessment Scores (CAS) uploads remain incomplete. Addressing the Teaching Service Commission on Monday 9th December 2024, the Minister highlighted the dire consequences of these delays, which put thousands of pupils’ futures at risk.

“Enough is enough!” the Minister declared. “Schools failing to comply with CAS requirements will face serious consequences. This is about protecting our pupils and ensuring a fair education system.”

The Minister emphasized that incomplete CAS uploads will result in a 30% deduction in pupils’ final scores, a penalty that could severely impact their academic performance and future opportunities. Despite weekly monitoring by the Ministry, progress remains disappointing, particularly among schools in urban areas like Western Urban, where internet access is reliable.

Assuring consequences for Non-Compliance, the Minister outlined specific measures to be taken against non-compliant schools. For government schools, he stressed that school leaders may be removed from their posts after consultations with teachers’ unions. While for private schools, proprietors would be given an ultimatum to replace ineffective school leaders or risk losing their operating licenses.

The Ministry has already provided IT support and ensured internet connectivity to assist schools, leaving little room for excuses. The Minister expressed frustration that schools in rural areas with limited connectivity have managed to meet deadlines, while others in better-equipped areas have lagged behind.

“Incomplete CAS uploads don’t just hurt pupils; they undermine the integrity of our entire education system,” the Minister stressed. “We owe it to our pupils to provide them with a fair chance.”

CAS scores contribute significantly to pupils’ final results, forming 30% of their total grade. The Ministry’s hardline stance reflects its commitment to ensuring fairness and holding school leaders accountable.

The Minister urged parents, educators, and other stakeholders to join the Ministry in holding schools accountable. “This is not just about compliance; it’s about doing what’s right for the future of our children and our nation,” he said.

The Minister’s ultimatum is part of a broader strategy to enhance transparency and efficiency within Sierra Leone’s education sector. Over recent years, the MBSSE has introduced reforms aimed at improving education outcomes, including the introduction of digital tools to track and manage student performance.

As the 24-hour deadline looms, all eyes will be on school leaders to act swiftly and responsibly. Failure to meet the ultimatum may trigger far-reaching consequences, reshaping the leadership landscape in both public and private schools.

 

 

 

 

 

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