By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) has officially responded to the planned strike action by the Sierra Leone Teachers’ Union (SLTU), set to begin on Monday, September 8, 2025.
This planned industrial action stems from ongoing disputes over delayed salary payments and inadequate educational resources, issues that have fueled unrest within Sierra Leone’s education sector.
In a press release issued on September 7, the MBSSE acknowledged the invaluable contributions of teachers to the nation’s education system and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing their concerns. This statement follows an earlier communication from the Vice President on September 4, which outlined the government’s stance on the matter.
A primary concern raised by the SLTU is the delay in salary payments to teachers. In response, the government stated that it has disbursed SLE 2,514,470 to the relevant financial institutions, including commercial banks, to ensure that all outstanding payments are made.
Despite this assurance, the SLTU maintains its position, citing unresolved issues including low salaries and a lack of adequate teaching and learning materials. The union argues that these persistent challenges severely hinder the delivery of quality education.
In its statement, the MBSSE emphasized the importance of dialogue and collaboration with educational stakeholders. The ministry expressed its openness to engage with the SLTU to find a lasting solution that supports teachers while preserving stability in the education sector.
The ministry also announced plans to prioritize funding for educational resources, such as textbooks and teaching materials, as part of its broader commitment to improving the quality of education across the country. Additionally, a task force has been established to monitor and enhance the implementation of key education policies.
As the strike officially begins today, with many schools remaining closed, the MBSSE has urged teachers to consider the impact of their actions on students and the wider community. The ministry remains hopeful that continued dialogue will result in a positive resolution that benefits both educators and learners in Sierra Leone.
In conclusion, the unfolding situation highlights the urgent need for sustainable reforms in the country’s education system. All stakeholders are encouraged to work together toward long-term solutions that address the systemic challenges faced by teachers and ensure consistent educational progress nationwide.