By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a compelling address during a recent Town Hall meeting on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Freetown, Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, underscored the essential role of school safety in promoting effective learning. His passionate remarks highlighted that a secure learning environment is crucial for student success and forms the basis of a new, comprehensive school safety policy.
The Ministry has introduced robust sex education programs to equip students with the skills to identify and respond to inappropriate behavior. Complementing these programs, educational posters on SGBV are prominently displayed in schools, serving as constant reminders of the actions students should take if faced with such issues.
He emphasized that these safety and educational measures are integral to ensuring that every student feels secure and supported. He noted that these initiatives are part of a broader Education Sector Plan aimed at creating an inclusive and supportive educational environment. The momentum for safer schools intensified in 2019 following disturbing reports of sexual and gender-based violence, prompting President Julius Maada Bio to launch a Presidential initiative. This initiative led to legislative amendments and the establishment of a “one-stop shop” for streamlined reporting and response to these incidents.
Despite the progress, some stakeholders believe that efforts to address sexual harassment and abuse in schools remain inadequate. While the comprehensive sex education program and Radical Inclusion Policy represent significant advancements, challenges persist. Minister Conrad Sackey acknowledged the ongoing issues and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to refining and enhancing these policies to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.
The Ministry also recognizes the critical role of community involvement in these efforts. Parents, teachers and students are encouraged to engage with and provide feedback on the new policies to help shape future initiatives. Minister Sackey highlighted that a collaborative approach is vital for achieving the goal of safe schools.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education plans to continuously monitor the effectiveness of these policies and make necessary adjustments. The commitment to fostering a safe and secure learning environment remains steadfast as it is seen as fundamental to effective education and student well-being.
The combined efforts of the Ministry supported by legislative reforms and community engagements aim to create not only a safe learning environment but also a culture of respect and safety in schools. This approach ensures that every student can learn and thrive without fear of sexual harassment or abuse.
