By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
A new educational institution dedicated to advancing girls’ education in Sierra Leone is set to open its doors in September 2025. Located in Kerry Town, the Olive Academy Boarding School for Girls is the initiative of Olive Favour Baimba and her husband, who have fully financed the development of the school.
The school is designed to offer a secure and inclusive learning environment for up to 750 girls, including those with disabilities. With a strong focus on academic excellence, character development and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education, the institution aims to provide a well-rounded and future-oriented experience.
Facilities at Olive Academy include smart classrooms, science and computer laboratories, a fully stocked library and 14 staff residences to accommodate teaching personnel. In addition to academic infrastructure, the school will also provide a mini sports center with basketball and volleyball courts, as well as agricultural plots where pupils will participate in growing their own food. This hands-on approach is intended to integrate practical knowledge into the learning process.
The school buildings are purposefully designed to ensure privacy and comfort, with each residence equipped with showers and designated facilities for both male and female staff members.
One of the key features of the Academy is its reliance on solar energy. In an effort to guarantee consistent electricity supply and promote environmental sustainability, the entire campus will operate independently of the national grid through a solar-powered system.
Security and healthcare have also been factored into the school’s planning. Trained personnel and surveillance systems will provide a secure environment for pupils, while on-campus clinics staffed by professional nurses will offer immediate medical support. School matrons will also reside on campus to provide additional welfare support for pupils.
Initially, the Academy will enroll pupils into JSS1 and JSS2, with expansion plans already in motion to include both primary and senior secondary levels. The founders emphasized that this phased approach is intended to build a strong academic foundation for future pupils.
Staff recruitment is ongoing, with an emphasis on selecting qualified, experienced and values-driven educators who align with the school’s commitment to discipline, respect and integrity.
Rather than operating in isolation, Olive Academy seeks to collaborate with other schools and educational stakeholders in Sierra Leone. The founders view the Academy as part of a collective effort to raise the standard of education and position Sierra Leone as a leader in academic excellence across the region.
According to Olive Favour Baimba, the school represents a long-held vision to provide a safe and enriching space for girls to learn and develop. “This is a step forward for the country,” she said. “We’re creating opportunities for young girls to succeed, including those with disabilities.”
Preparations are well underway for the opening of Olive Academy Boarding School for Girls, which is positioned to make a meaningful impact on Sierra Leone’s educational landscape by providing quality education in a carefully designed and fully equipped setting.
