By Augustine Koroma

Masanga, a resilient community in Sierra Leone’s Tonkolili District, stands at a critical juncture in its pursuit of educational progress. For years, the community has successfully operated a Junior Secondary School (JSS), but it now faces a pressing challenge: the need to establish a Senior Secondary School (SSS). Without this, students will be forced to leave their community to continue their education, a reality many cannot afford.

The Masanga community, home to a vulnerable population that includes leprosy patients and their families, has long endured social and economic hardships.
For these families, access to local education is more than just a convenience, it is essential for breaking the cycle of marginalization that has impacted them for generations.

Despite the obstacles, the community is taking steps forward.
They have secured land for the school and constructed temporary facilities so students can begin their senior secondary education as soon as the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) results are released. However, these makeshift structures are far from sufficient for long-term learning.

To realize the dream of a fully equipped Senior Secondary School, Masanga urgently appeals for support from the Government of Sierra Leone, non-governmental organizations (*NGOs*), philanthropists, and citizens both at home and abroad.
The community is resolute in its determination, but external assistance is crucial to making this vision a reality.

This initiative promises to transform not only the lives of the children in this leprosy affected community but also contribute to the broader development of the region. We call on all stakeholders to step forward with donations—whether in materials, funds, or expertise.

Sierra Leoneans in the diaspora, who have consistently shown tremendous support for their home communities, are also urged to contribute to the success of this project.

For more information about the project, please contact Mr. Abdulai Gbla, Principal of Masanga Community JSS, at +23276457122. For assistance, reach out to Mr. Ibrahim T. Kamara, Chairman of the Masanga Development Committee, at +23278216692.