By: Aminata Sesay
The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) has initiated an urgent investigation following the tragic death of two students at the National Pentecostal Primary School in Freetown. The incident, which occurred on March 25, 2025, has raised concerns about student safety across educational institutions in Sierra Leone.
Brima M. Sowa, the Permanent Secretary of the MBSSE, announced the ministry’s commitment to uncovering the circumstances surrounding the tragedy and ensuring accountability. “We are deeply saddened by this loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the affected families, the school community, and the entire nation,” Sowa said during a press conference.
The ministry is working closely with law enforcement agencies, school authorities, and other stakeholders to conduct a comprehensive inquiry. According to Sowa, the investigation aims to identify the root cause of the incident and implement measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
In addition to the investigation, the MBSSE has pledged to prioritize mental health support for students and staff at the National Pentecostal Primary School. “We recognize the emotional toll such incidents can have on children and educators,” Sowa noted. “Counseling services will be made available to help the school community cope with the psychological impact of this tragedy.”
This incident has amplified calls for stronger safety protocols in schools across the country. In response, the ministry is urging all educational institutions to review and strengthen their emergency preparedness plans. Sowa emphasized the need for vigilance, stating, “Ensuring the safety and well-being of every child remains our highest priority. We are taking immediate steps to reinforce safety measures and address any gaps in our current system.”
Parents and community leaders have expressed concerns about the overall safety of school environments. Some have called for increased supervision, better infrastructure, and clearer communication between schools and families to prevent future tragedies.
As the investigation continues, the MBSSE has promised to keep the public informed of any findings and subsequent actions. Sowa reiterated the ministry’s dedication to fostering a secure learning environment, assuring the public that no effort will be spared in safeguarding Sierra Leone’s students.
The tragic loss of these two young lives has sent shockwaves throughout the nation, sparking a renewed focus on student welfare and school safety. While the ministry works to address immediate concerns, many are calling for long-term reforms to ensure that no family endures a similar loss in the future.
Further updates on the investigation are expected as authorities work to bring clarity and accountability to this devastating incident.
