By Josephine Sesay
The Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, has reaffirmed his confidence in Sierra Leone’s ability to achieve self-reliance, stating that the nation possesses the potential to build a prosperous future through unity, determination, and collective commitment.
Speaking during the official launch of the 2026/2027 School Feeding Programme in Freetown, Minister Sackey described the initiative as more than a programme to provide meals for schoolchildren. He said it is a strategic investment in the country’s future, aimed at improving education, enhancing child welfare, and supporting sustainable national development.
Addressing stakeholders, education officials, development partners, and members of the public, the Minister stressed that the school feeding programme is a vital component of the government’s broader agenda to strengthen the education sector and ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn in a supportive environment.
“Sierra Leone can feed itself. Sierra Leone can build itself. Sierra Leone can imagine its own future and make it real,” Mr. Sackey declared, drawing applause from attendees.
He noted that providing nutritious meals in schools helps improve attendance, concentration, and academic performance while reducing barriers that prevent many children from accessing quality education. According to him, the programme is also expected to contribute to children’s health and overall wellbeing, creating a stronger foundation for national growth.
Minister Sackey further emphasised that the success of such initiatives depends on collaboration among government institutions, development partners, local communities, and citizens. He encouraged Sierra Leoneans to embrace a shared vision of self-reliance by supporting policies and programmes that promote local capacity and sustainable development.
The launch of the 2026/2027 School Feeding Programme underscores the government’s continued commitment to improving educational outcomes and ensuring that no child is left behind due to hunger or poverty.
The Minister concluded by expressing optimism that with sustained investment in education and unwavering national commitment, Sierra Leone can overcome its challenges, harness its own resources, and build a future driven by resilience, innovation, and inclusive development.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 10th August 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
