By Ibrahim S. Bangura
KAMBIA DISTRICT—In an effort to enhance education in hard-to-reach communities, ABC-Development, with funding from ActionAid International-Sierra Leone (AASL), has launched targeted interventions to retain children in school and improve literacy in Masungbala Chiefdom, Kambia District.
According to the 2019 Annual School Census (ASC) Report, Sierra Leone has approximately 1.7 million students, 56% of whom are female. While 73% of girls are enrolled in primary school, many struggle to advance to higher education, with barriers worsened by events such as the Ebola outbreak in 2014-2015.
Recognizing education as a key tool in breaking the cycle of poverty, ABC-Development has been supporting national efforts under Sierra Leone’s Free Quality School Education (FQSE) policy. The organization has focused on engaging rural communities by providing essential resources and programs to sustain school attendance.
Literacy and Sponsorship Initiatives
In 2024, ABC-Development supplied government-prescribed textbooks to Reading Circles in sponsorship communities, aiming to enhance learning in primary schools and discourage children from skipping school for farming or trading on local market days (Luma).
Building on this momentum, the organization introduced the “Invigorate Child Sponsorship through Inter-School Spelling Competition” in 2025. The competition brought together three primary schools in Masungbala Chiefdom:
– Ahmadiyya Muslim Primary School of Kirma Bana
– Kambia District Education Committee Primary School of Laminaya
– Ahmadiyya Muslim Primary School Bennah
Each school selected three pupils from classes 3, 4, and 6 to compete, making a total of nine participants. The contest challenged students on spelling words derived from Reading Circle materials, fostering teamwork, confidence, and critical thinking.
Community Engagement and Recognition
The competition attracted a large audience, including local leaders such as the Paramount Chief of Masungbala Chiefdom, officials from the Ministry of Basic and Senior School Education (MBSSE), school administrators, teachers, and representatives from the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC).
A trained evaluator from Kawula Town oversaw the event, ensuring fairness in team and individual performances. At the end of the competition, top-performing schools and students received prizes, while all contestants were recognized for their participation.
Commitment to Rural Education
Officials from ABC-Development reiterated their commitment to improving literacy and keeping children motivated in school. They highlighted the need for sustained educational interventions in rural areas, where economic challenges often hinder academic progress.
With continued support from AASL, ABC-Development remains dedicated to advancing quality education, fostering academic excellence, and empowering Sierra Leone’s young learners. The initiative complements national and global goals of promoting inclusive and quality education for all.