By Bishop English Peterson
A week ago, one of my daughters sent me a message that her mother was crying bitterly. I asked to know why her mother really had to cry. ‘My Mum does not have money for my change of school. She raised my hope that I would sure go to a new school this academic year,’ she examined the words of her Mum, wanting to seek better words of comfort from me. This was somewhat shocking to me. ‘And why would you cause your Mum to cry, my daughter?’ I gently asked back. ‘I didn’t mean it,’ she ploughed words of remorse.
You see, here in Freetown, this season stands truly unchallenged. As the back-to-school season approaches, a term that echoes through the streets of Sierra Leone— “back to school”—takes on new significance. It is more than just a phrase; it encapsulates the struggles, hopes, and responsibilities that parents face as they prepare their children for a new academic year. From Abacha Street to Lumley, and in towns like Makeni, Bo, Kono, and Kailahun, the reality of this season is palpable. Parents often find themselves in financial turmoil, going into debt to ensure their children have the necessary school supplies and fees.
The back-to-school syndrome affects families from all walks of life. After months of relaxation, the return to school can feel overwhelming, both for parents and children. While there is nothing inherently wrong with the concept of returning to school or the establishment of new educational institutions, it is vital for parents to recognize the emotional and financial toll this transition can take on their children.
Dr. Sarah Johnson, a child development expert, emphasizes that “children need time to adjust to the school environment after long breaks. Rushing them back into a rigid routine can lead to anxiety and stress.” Many children face the harsh reality of attending school without adequate financial support, leading to situations where they rely on their peers for basic needs, such as food. This dependency can foster feelings of insecurity and sadness, and in some cases, lead to negative influences, as children may seek solace in harmful associations.
An alarming statistic is that many children drop out of school due to financial constraints. This is a fight that every responsible parent must take seriously. The future of a child is not just their own but a legacy for the family. Parents must advocate for their children’s education, regardless of the obstacles they face. As Bishop English Peterson poignantly states, “Let a child not drop out of school because of the lack of school fees. Fight hard. The future of your daughter or son is your heritage.”
This fight is not only about financial support but also about providing emotional backing. Parents must communicate with their children, reassuring them that they are valued and supported, even during tough times.
In urban areas, overcrowding in schools is a significant challenge, not just in Sierra Leone but in cities around the world, like Lagos and Accra. Overcrowded classrooms lead to diminished opportunities for personalized attention, which can exacerbate feelings of neglect. According to educational coach Dr. Mark Thompson, “When children feel overlooked, it can result in disengagement from learning.”
Moreover, parents must also take an active role in teaching their children about safety, particularly in navigating busy streets. Educating children on how to cross roads safely is a fundamental responsibility that can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
In 2020, upon arriving in Sierra Leone from Ghana, I encountered numerous children who expressed feelings of isolation. Many reported that they seldom saw their parents, often being cared for instead by house helps or nannies. This disconnect can have lasting effects on a child’s emotional and educational development. The lack of parental presence can lead to children feeling unvalued and unsupported, which may manifest in poor academic performance and difficulty in forming healthy relationships.
Places like Bay, Croo Bay, Congo Town, among other counts, have oftentimes neglected children’s welfare–in times of education. Parents living around those places give time to petty businesses. Anything doing with standards regarding education, certainly, would be shifted for a nothingville. I’ve personally lived at Congo Town, and I undertook observations on this topic. To other places, my friends and I have had times in giving a stone throw, marking the education standards–as most part is left unmanned by parents.
For children in rural areas, the challenges can be even more pronounced. Many must travel several miles to attend school, exposing them to various dangers along the way. As Bishop Peterson reflects, “Children from less secure homes are often left to fend for themselves.” It is crucial for parents to ensure that their children are safe and secure in their environment.
To educators, it is essential to understand that many children arrive at school carrying emotional burdens from home. Teachers and principals need to be particularly vigilant, recognizing signs of distress and providing emotional support. Dr. Johnson advises, “Take the time for private conversations and emotional counseling. A child who feels supported is more likely to succeed academically.”
Teachers play a pivotal role in shaping a child’s educational experience. Encouragement from educators can make a significant difference in a child’s life. However, it is equally important for parents to be aware of the influences in their children’s lives, especially regarding teacher-student dynamics.
A critical point that cannot be overlooked is the relationship between male teachers and female students. While many male educators are dedicated and caring, it is essential for parents, especially mothers, to remain vigilant. Just because a teacher is well-regarded does not guarantee their intentions are always pure. Bishop Peterson warns, “Humanity is difficult to understand. Trust your instincts as a parent.” It is vital for parents to foster open communication with their children about their experiences at school, ensuring that they feel safe discussing any concerns.
While I try to move away from this back-to-school topic, I would encourage that we embrace the back-to-school season; it is time for parents to reaffirm their commitment to nurturing their children’s futures. This journey is not solely the responsibility of educators; it begins at home. Responsible parenting involves ensuring that our children feel valued, secure, and supported in every aspect of their lives.
The back-to-school message is clear: education is the cornerstone of a child’s future. It is not merely about attending classes; it is about creating an environment where children can thrive emotionally, socially, and academically. Together, we can build a community where every child has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their circumstances.
A message to my readership: let us work hand in hand to ensure that our children return to school not just physically, but with a sense of belonging and purpose. The future of our children is not just their own—it is a shared legacy that we all hold dear.
I guess, this article would, indeed, serve a word to everyone, precisely our responsible parents in Sierra Leone, and world over. Please share as you read to adhere.
End!