In a landmark move to enhance its education sector, Sierra Leone this week hosted a high-level international convening focused on Strengthening Evidence Use in Education, held in collaboration with the What Works Hub for Global Education. The event brought together major global stakeholders including the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the World Bank and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to promote data-driven strategies that can reshape learning outcomes across the country.
Organized under the auspices of the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE), the gathering underscored Sierra Leone’s steadfast commitment to embedding evidence at the heart of education policy and practice. The initiative is closely aligned with the broader vision of President Julius Maada Bio, whose administration has prioritized a results-driven, people-centered education system under its flagship Free Quality Education (FQE) programme.
“This week, Sierra Leone proudly played host to a transformative session on strengthening evidence use in education,” said Conrad Sackey, Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education. “Joined by global partners, including the FCDO, the World Bank and the Gates Foundation, we showcased our commitment to placing evidence at the heart of educational transformation.”
The Minister emphasized that the convening went far beyond technical discussions, describing it as a “deeply transformational” dialogue. “We explored how to turn data into decisions, research into reform and evidence into real impact,” he noted. “This is not mere policy rhetoric; it is the driving force behind President Bio’s education agenda.”
He reiterated that while the FQE initiative has already provided access to learning for over 1 million children nationwide, access alone is not the final goal. “The next frontier is about ensuring quality, accountability and equity through smart, evidence-informed choices in every classroom, in every district and in every policy decision.”
Conrad Sackey reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to leading with data, partnering with research institutions and fostering innovation to ensure children are at the center of educational reform. “Sierra Leone is not waiting for change; we are building it, boldly and deliberately, with evidence in hand,” he declared.
This international engagement is being hailed as a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s ongoing journey toward sustainable, equitable and high-impact education reform. With bold leadership, strong international collaboration and a focus on evidence-based action, the country aims to guarantee that every child, in every district, receives the quality education they deserve.
The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education has pledged to continue driving this agenda forward, using data and research as essential tools to shape a more inclusive and effective education system.