By: James Kamara-Manneh
In a special lecture at Yonsei University, Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, highlighted his government’s strategic initiatives to enhance the educational system and reconstruct governance in Sierra Leone. Addressing President Dong-Sup Yoon, distinguished faculty members, students, and guests, President Bio reflected on the historical significance of Yonsei University and drew parallels between South Korea’s educational transformation and Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts.
Educational Reforms and Investments
President Bio emphasized the critical role of education in Sierra Leone’s national development. He noted that since 2018, his government has prioritized human capital development, mirroring Yonsei University’s vision of transcending racial and national boundaries through education.
“Quality Education and Human Capital Development lie at the heart of Sierra Leone’s national development aspirations,” President Bio stated. He underscored the importance of education in fostering economic growth, social progress, and political stability, citing Nelson Mandela’s famous assertion that “education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world.”
Over the past six years, Sierra Leone has allocated the largest share of its annual national budget—22%—to the education sector. President Bio highlighted the Free Quality School Education Programme, which aims to nurture the potential of Sierra Leonean children. The program focuses on providing equitable access to quality education, breaking the cycle of poverty, reducing inequality, and fostering societal progress.
Drawing lessons from South Korea’s rapid transformation, President Bio detailed his government’s efforts to build a robust, accessible, and high-quality educational system. These efforts include investments in educational infrastructure, training and retaining qualified teachers, and updating the curriculum to meet 21st-century needs. The Radical Inclusion in Education initiative, which ensures that no group is left behind, has received international commendations.
Focus on Foundational Learning and Gender Equality
President Bio highlighted the Reform Foundational Learning For All initiative, which aims to ensure that all students acquire foundational skills by Primary 4, enabling them to succeed in subsequent education and life. The reform prioritizes pre-primary education and addresses inequalities affecting children’s access to school, including the impact of rising living costs, hunger, and malnutrition.
The education of girls is a critical component of Sierra Leone’s educational reforms. President Bio announced that enabling policies have achieved gender parity in schools, with higher retention and pass rates for girls in national examinations. The policy of free STEM education for girls from primary school through university has led to a significant increase in female students excelling in these fields.
Governance Reforms and Anti-Corruption Efforts
Transitioning to governance, President Bio addressed the longstanding issues that have hindered Sierra Leone’s development. He outlined his government’s comprehensive framework to reverse the country’s negative perception, emphasizing democratic principles, human rights, the rule of law, and good governance.
“Without a healthy democracy, we cannot assure our people and partners of a stable country,” President Bio asserted. He noted the repeal of the criminal libel law, the abolition of the death penalty, and sustained anti-corruption efforts that have improved Sierra Leone’s ranking on Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index.
President Bio also highlighted the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, which mandates equal pay for equal work and guarantees a minimum 30% representation of women in decision-making processes.
Economic and Development Initiatives
President Bio discussed the Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) 2024-2030, which focuses on food security, human capital development, and job creation. The FEED SALONE PROGRAMME aims to achieve food security and sovereignty while creating jobs and reducing poverty. Additionally, the Youth Employment Scheme (YES) and Technology and Infrastructure Programme are designed to support economic progress and public service reform.
Invitation to Collaborate
Concluding his lecture, President Bio invited Yonsei University and other stakeholders to join Sierra Leone in building a just, prosperous, and inclusive nation. He encouraged students to uphold Yonsei’s principles of truth and freedom, urging them to serve humanity with open hearts and contribute to global prosperity.
“God bless you all and thank you for listening,” President Bio concluded, leaving the audience inspired by his vision for Sierra Leone’s future.
