By Mackie M. Jalloh
MENTHAGBA, KARENE DISTRICT
A new chapter in rural education unfolded on Friday, 15th May 2026, as Freetown Terminal Limited officially inaugurated the Freetown Terminal Limited Primary School, a modern six-classroom educational facility built in Menthagba Village, Sanda Taindaren Chiefdom.
The colourful ceremony brought together government officials, traditional authorities, education stakeholders, media practitioners, parents, and community members, all celebrating what many described as a transformational investment in the future of children within the chiefdom.
The atmosphere became emotional when Class Six pupil, Lamrana Mumu, delivered the welcome address on behalf of the pupils. He reflected on the severe difficulties children previously faced in accessing education, revealing that many pupils used to walk nearly ten miles daily in search of schooling opportunities.
He thanked FTL for bringing education closer to their community, and promised that pupils would protect the school, remain committed to their studies, and use the opportunity to become productive citizens in the future.
Giving an overview of the project, Stanley Bangura, described as the brain behind the initiative, said the true value of the school should not be measured by financial cost, but by the long-term impact it will have on generations of children.
According to him, the project initially began as a three-classroom structure before support from Regional Manager, Fabjanko Komrabai Kawaleh Kokan, led to its expansion into a fully equipped six-classroom primary school.
Bangura disclosed that the Freetown Terminal Limited Primary School is the first primary school in the chiefdom to include flush toilets for both pupils and teachers. He further revealed that the school remains the only institution in the area providing school bags, books, and other learning materials annually for all pupils.
Acting Section Chief of Mateboi Section expressed appreciation to FTL and community elders, noting that access to education has long been a major challenge for children in the area. He said the construction of the school has significantly reduced the burden on pupils who previously travelled long distances daily.
Representatives from the Future Promoters of Sanda Association also praised the initiative, describing it as one of the most important developments ever witnessed in the chiefdom. They commended Stanley Bangura for championing the project and bringing development closer to rural communities.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, district officials described the occasion as more than an official opening, calling it “the opening of future doors of education” for children in Karene District. Teachers were encouraged to remain committed to quality learning, while pupils were urged to take their education seriously.
Edward Marah, speaking on behalf of the media, commended FTL for demonstrating meaningful corporate social responsibility. He noted that the project should serve as a strong example for other companies operating in Sierra Leone.
In a passionate statement, Paramount Chief Sheikh Abdulrahman Bangura described the school as a symbol of hope and opportunity for future generations. Sharing his personal story, he recounted walking barefoot for miles under harsh conditions just to access education during his childhood.
He assured the company that the community would take ownership of the school and ensure its protection and maintenance for future generations.
FTL General Manager, Maroun Abi Aad, emphasized that education remains the foundation of every strong society, describing the school as an investment not only in children, but in the future development of the community itself.
Regional Manager, Capt. Kokan described the project as part of a broader mission to build hope through education. He stressed that the goal is to raise children who are not only academically successful, but also responsible and compassionate citizens capable of changing society positively.
Delivering the keynote address, Ambassador Umaru Bond Wurie described the school as a gateway to literacy, dignity, and opportunity. He urged parents, teachers, and pupils to work together to ensure the institution produces future leaders, professionals, and innovators from the chiefdom.
The historic event concluded with the official cutting of the ribbon, prayers, and group photographs, marking a memorable milestone for Menthagba Village and the wider Sanda Taindaren Chiefdom.