The Ministry of Basic Education has announced several key initiatives to promote fairness and transparency in the school admission process for the upcoming academic year.

A newly established stakeholder panel will oversee interview processes for government and government-assisted schools, ensuring that every child who passes the National Primary School Examination (NPSE) has a fair opportunity to choose their school. This move aims to eliminate exclusion and maintain integrity in school admissions.

The ministry also works with organizations like Save the Children and Orange to enhance school infrastructure, reflecting a solid commitment to improving student learning environments.

To combat corruption, the ministry has introduced a toll-free hotline (8060) to report irregularities in school admissions. The ministry reiterated that admission to schools must strictly follow set criteria, with no exceptions for students who do not meet the required marks.

Additionally, the government will cover school fees a
nd provide some textbooks for students in government schools, while parents will be responsible for uniforms. Private schools must comply with specific facility guidelines before being established to ensure they provide adequate learning spaces.

The new school year begins on Monday, September 9, 2024. This early announcement ensures that all students, parents, and educators have ample time to prepare.

Source: Sierra Leone News Agency