Makeni, August 9, 2025 — A devastating fire has engulfed parts of the Benevolent Islamic Secondary School in Makeni, destroying six classrooms, the principal’s office, and the examinations office. The incident occurred on Thursday, August 7, 2025, prompting an urgent visit by the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, and his delegation.
Accompanied by Deputy Minister-1 Emily Kadiatu Gogra, Minister Sackey toured the damaged site to assess the extent of destruction and engage with school authorities and local stakeholders. The visit drew key figures including Bombali District Council Chairman Dr. Mohamed Mark Baba Sesay, Regent Chief Foday Conteh, and Head of the Free Quality Education Secretariat Northeast, Abubakarr Jalloh.
School Principal Abdul Salam Conteh firmly dismissed circulating social media claims that the fire was caused by aggrieved pupils. He clarified that the issuing of report cards and exam scripts earlier that day had proceeded peacefully, in line with the school’s commitment to transparency.
“We were unable to remove anything. I cannot quantify the cost of the damage yet,” Conteh stated. “But we lost vital documents including land certificates, past pupils’ results, and several pieces of equipment—seven computers, two laptops, five desktops, three printers, and laminating machines—all reduced to ashes.”
Conteh also noted ongoing land encroachment issues and emphasized the need to protect the integrity of the investigation.
Minister Sackey urged the school administration to compile a comprehensive damage report and submit a budget proposal to guide the government’s next steps.
“This assessment will inform our plan of action. We are committed to restoring a safe and conducive learning environment,” Sackey said.
Abubakarr Conteh, President of the Benevolent Old Students Association, announced that immediate efforts are underway to secure temporary learning spaces for affected pupils. A committee has been formed to investigate the incident and prepare for the school’s reopening in September.
“We appreciate the minister’s timely visit and assure the public that learning will continue,” Conteh affirmed.
School Board Chairman Prof. Philip Kanu appealed to the government and stakeholders for urgent assistance to rebuild. He cautioned against premature accusations targeting students, warning that such claims could discourage attendance.
“Let’s allow the authorities to conduct a thorough, evidence-based investigation,” he urged.
Local Unit Commander CSP Abu Bakaar Magona of the Sierra Leone Police, Makeni Division, confirmed that a formal investigation is underway. He assured the public of a professional and impartial process, noting that several individuals have already filed police reports.
The damaged building, constructed in 1977 through funds raised by local women traders, holds deep historical significance. While construction continues near the site, authorities have ruled out electrical faults as the cause of the fire. The Fire Force was commended for its swift response, which prevented further destruction.