By Jensen Brian Abass Cummings

Education is the cornerstone of development and progress in any society, serving as the bedrock upon which future generations build their lives. In Sierra Leone, like many other nations, the landscape of education has evolved significantly over the past two decades, marked by advancements in technology, infrastructure, and access to resources. However, despite these improvements, there has been a concerning trend of declining educational outcomes among Sierra Leonean students. This article delves into the contrasting experiences of education in Sierra Leone, comparing the challenges faced by students two decades ago with the opportunities available to present-day learners. By examining the factors contributing to this decline and offering recommendations for improvement, we aim to shed light on the complex dynamics shaping education in Sierra Leone and advocate for meaningful interventions to ensure a brighter future for its students.

Education Then: Challenges and Experiences

Two decades ago, Sierra Leonean students navigated a vastly different educational landscape characterized by numerous challenges that significantly shaped their learning experiences. Despite their resilience and determination, students faced formidable obstacles that impacted their ability to excel academically. Here, we explore some of the key challenges and experiences encountered by students during this period:

1. Limited Access to Extra Lessons: In the educational landscape of the past, access to extra lessons outside of regular school hours was scarce. Teachers, although dedicated, often lack the resources and time to provide additional support to struggling students. As a result, many students had to rely solely on classroom instruction, with limited opportunities for reinforcement or remediation.
2. Manual Note-Taking: Unlike the digital age of today, where information is readily accessible at the touch of a button, students from two decades ago relied on manual note-taking methods. They diligently transcribed lecture notes from the blackboard onto paper, a time-consuming process that required meticulous attention to detail. This method, while effective in reinforcing learning, also posed challenges in terms of organization and legibility.
3. Lack of Printed Materials: The absence of printed materials, such as textbooks and study guides, presented a significant barrier to learning for students in Sierra Leone. Limited resources and funding meant that many schools struggled to provide students with essential learning materials, forcing them to make do with outdated or insufficient resources. As a result, students often lacked access to the supplementary materials necessary to deepen their understanding of key concepts.
4. Minimal Extracurricular Activities: Extracurricular activities, which play a vital role in holistic development, were limited in Sierra Leonean schools two decades ago. While traditional activities like sports and cultural events were prevalent, opportunities for more diverse extracurricular pursuits were scarce. As a result, students had fewer opportunities to explore their interests outside of the classroom and develop essential life skills such as teamwork and leadership.
5. Infrastructure Challenges: Infrastructure challenges, including unreliable electricity supply and inadequate facilities, posed significant obstacles to learning for students in Sierra Leone. Frequent power outages meant that students often had to resort to studying by candlelight or kerosene lamps, compromising their ability to study effectively after dark. Additionally, poorly equipped classrooms and libraries hindered students’ access to essential resources and limited their ability to engage in independent study.
6. Limited Technological Access: Unlike the digital natives of today, students from two decades ago had limited access to technology in the classroom. Internet access was virtually non-existent, and computers were a rare sight in schools. As a result, students relied primarily on traditional methods of research and study, such as library books and handwritten notes, which limited their ability to access up-to-date information and digital resources.

BELOW ARE WHAT WE HAVE THAT WAS A GAIN TO US:

1. Dedicated Teachers: Despite the challenges they faced, teachers in Sierra Leone demonstrated unwavering dedication to their students’ education. They worked tirelessly to deliver high-quality instruction, often going above and beyond their duties to support students’ learning. Despite limited resources and challenging working conditions, these teachers played a crucial role in shaping the educational experiences of their students and instilling in them a love for learning.
2. Competitive Environment: In a highly competitive educational landscape, students in Sierra Leone were motivated by a desire to excel academically and secure admission to university. Competition both within schools and among rival institutions fueled a drive for excellence, with students striving to achieve the highest grades possible. This competitive spirit fostered a culture of academic achievement and instilled in students a sense of pride in their accomplishments.

Education Now: Advancements and Issues

In contrast to the educational landscape of two decades ago, Sierra Leonean students today benefit from a range of advancements in technology, infrastructure, and access to resources. However, despite these improvements, there are notable challenges and issues that impact the quality of education and student outcomes. Here, we explore the advancements and issues in present-day education in Sierra Leone:

1. Technological Integration: One of the most significant advancements in present-day education is the integration of technology into the learning process. Students now have access to the internet and digital tools like Google, which facilitate research, collaboration, and learning. Technology has opened up new avenues for accessing information and resources, expanding students’ horizons and providing opportunities for interactive and engaging learning experiences.
2. Mobile Technology: The proliferation of smartphones has revolutionized the way students access and interact with educational content. With powerful devices at their fingertips, students can capture, store, and share information effortlessly. Mobile technology also enables students to communicate with teachers and peers, access educational apps and resources, and engage in remote learning opportunities.
3. Printing Facilities: Unlike the past, present-day students have access to printing facilities, allowing them to easily produce copies of study materials and assignments. This accessibility enhances the learning experience by providing students with tangible resources that they can refer to and annotate as needed.
4. Internet Access: Expanded internet connectivity has democratized access to educational resources and information, levelling the playing field for students across the country. With access to online libraries, databases, and educational websites, students can explore a wealth of knowledge beyond the confines of traditional textbooks and classroom instruction.
5. Abundant Learning Materials: Recognized pamphlets, textbooks, and study guides are readily available to present-day students, providing them with a diverse range of learning materials to support their studies. These materials cover a wide range of subjects and topics, enabling students to deepen their understanding and engage with curriculum content in meaningful ways.
6. Improved Infrastructure: Infrastructure improvements, including better electricity supply and modernized learning environments, have created more conducive conditions for learning. With access to reliable electricity and well-equipped classrooms and libraries, students can study comfortably and efficiently, maximizing their learning potential.
7. Enhanced Support Services: Present-day students benefit from a range of support services, including school buses for transportation, extended classes for additional instruction, and dedicated teachers and tutors who provide personalized support and guidance. These support services help address the diverse needs of students and ensure that they receive the assistance they need to succeed academically.

Despite these advancements, there are several issues and challenges that impact the quality of education and student outcomes in Sierra Leone:

Declining Educational Standards: Despite the availability of improved resources and opportunities, there has been a noticeable decline in educational standards and student performance. Factors contributing to this decline include inadequate teacher training, curriculum deficiencies, and systemic issues within the education system.

Increased Incidents of Malpractice: There has been a rise in incidents of malpractice during exams, including cheating and plagiarism, which undermine the integrity of the education system and devalue academic achievements. Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort from educators, policymakers, and the community to promote honesty and integrity in education.

Concerns About Academic Performance and IQ Levels: There are concerns about the overall academic performance and IQ levels of students in Sierra Leone, with some stakeholders expressing apprehension about students’ ability to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. Addressing these concerns requires a holistic approach that focuses on enhancing critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.

Recommendations for Improvement:

To address the challenges and reverse the declining trend in educational standards, concerted efforts are needed from various stakeholders:

Parents: Encourage active involvement in their children’s education and foster a conducive learning environment at home.

Schools: Prioritize quality teaching and learning experiences, integrate technology effectively, and provide adequate support services.

Pupils: Embrace the available resources responsibly, prioritize academic integrity, and cultivate a strong work ethic.

Ministry of Education: Implement policies to enhance educational quality, invest in teacher training and infrastructure development, and address systemic issues affecting the education sector.

The contrasting educational experiences of Sierra Leonean students from two different periods highlight both progress and challenges in the country’s education system. While advancements in technology and resources have expanded learning opportunities, the decline in educational outcomes underscores the need for holistic reforms and collaborative efforts to ensure that students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, February 14th, 2024 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)