By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) June 30, 2025, has launched a comprehensive investigation into serious allegations of sexual misconduct involving a teacher at Basharia Islamic Primary School in Fourah Bay, Freetown.
According to an official statement released Monday, the incident involves two class Four pupils and has been formally reported to the Sierra Leone police, the accused teacher, whose identity is being withheld for legal and child protection reasons, has been suspended from duty and taken into police custody pending further investigation.
We want to reassure the public that the pupils involved have been medically examined and are confirmed to be safe. They are currently under appropriate protection,” the Ministry stated.
The Ministry reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward School-Related Gender-Based Violence (SRGBV), emphasizing that schools must remain safe, secure, and nurturing environments for all children.
Any violation of a child’s rights within an educational setting is unacceptable and will be addressed with the full weight of the law, the statement read.
To ensure a coordinated and child-centered response, MBSSE is working closely with the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, the Ministry of Social Welfare, the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs, and the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Police investigators and school authorities are also actively involved in the case.
In response to this and other recent incidents, MBSSE announced plans to convene a national multi-sectoral dialogue on school-related gender-based violence. The forum will bring together key stakeholders in education, justice, child protection, and community engagement to develop more robust systems for prevention and accountability.
With support from international development partners including the World Bank, FCDO, the European Union, and Irish Aid, the Ministry is working to strengthen national safeguarding frameworks that protect children from abuse and exploitation in educational settings.
While investigations are ongoing, the Ministry urged the public to remain calm and allow due process to take its course.
We remain committed to full transparency while prioritizing the dignity and well-being of the children involved, the Ministry assured.
This case has reignited national concerns around child protection in schools, prompting renewed calls for stricter oversight, safer learning environments, and swift justice for victims of abuse.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 2nd July, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
