Freetown: The Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education met secondary school principals on Monday, reviewing school fees, teacher welfare, WASSCE practical reforms and broader measures meant to raise learning standards nationwide.

According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the meeting brought together the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education and the National Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (NCPSS), whose leadership presented resolutions adopted during its annual conference held from May 27 to May 30, 2026.

The principals said their discussions focused on pressing issues affecting secondary education and the welfare of teachers across the country. Their recommendations included the introduction of school fees for junior and senior secondary schools, improved welfare packages for teachers, and the inclusion of live practical examinations for candidates taking the West African Senior School Certificate Examination.

They also raised concerns about the recently concluded Basic Education Certificate Examination, citing difficulties encountered during the process. In addition, they called for urgent attention to teachers' welfare and working conditions, saying both remain critical to better performance across schools.

Responding, the minister addressed the concerns and reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring that every child in Sierra Leone has access to free, quality education. He acknowledged continuing challenges across the sector but said the ministry would keep working with school leaders and other stakeholders to find practical solutions.

He said closer cooperation with the principals' body would be essential to improving learning outcomes and strengthening the overall quality of education nationwide.

The meeting ended with both sides renewing their commitment to sustained dialogue and joint action to address challenges and build a stronger education system for Sierra Leonean children.