Freetown: The Government of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and China, has handed over classroom furniture to Freetown Polytechnic through the China Education Project. This initiative aims to enhance learning conditions and support quality tertiary education in Sierra Leone.
According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the handover ceremony was led by the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education and the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education. It is part of a nationwide distribution effort involving approximately 17,700 desks and chairs for educational institutions across the country. Freetown Polytechnic has received 770 furniture units, with an additional 400 expected, which are anticipated to improve more than 15 classrooms and benefit over 5,000 students.
During the ceremony, Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, Minister of Technical and Higher Education, emphasized that the initiative represents more than just the delivery of desks and chairs. It signifies the restoration of dignity in classrooms, the enhancement of the learning environment, and a renewed commitment to ensuring that students across Sierra Leone have the basic conditions necessary for success. Dr. Wurie acknowledged the infrastructural challenges faced by many institutions, such as overcrowded classrooms and inadequate furniture, which continue to impact teaching and learning.
Dr. Wurie reiterated the government's commitment to transforming technical and higher education through reforms focused on skills development, quality assurance, and digital learning. She highlighted the importance of practical investments like furniture support in making these reforms sustainable and expressed gratitude to UNDP and the Government of China for their continued support. She urged beneficiary institutions to ensure proper maintenance and responsible use of the furniture.
Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education Conrad Sackey described the donation as a strategic investment in Sierra Leone's future. He highlighted that the desks and chairs would improve comfort, support participation, and create better conditions for students to thrive. Sackey emphasized that education remains the most powerful investment a nation can make and encouraged students to utilize the opportunity and stay focused on their educational ambitions.
Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone H.E. Zhao Yong remarked that the project aligns with President Julius Maada Bio's human capital development agenda and the government's commitment to quality education. He noted that the initiative demonstrates China's continued support for Sierra Leone's education sector and highlighted the forthcoming 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Ambassador Zhao expressed China's readiness to work with Sierra Leone and international partners, including UNDP, to strengthen longstanding ties and expand cooperation, particularly in education.
UNDP Resident Representative in Sierra Leone Fredrick Ampiah stated that the handover is the result of years of collaboration among UNDP, China, and the Government of Sierra Leone. He emphasized that education is one of the most effective tools for addressing multidimensional poverty and advancing sustainable development. Ampiah added that the furniture project represents an important investment in human capital and social progress.
Dr. Samba Moriba, Principal of Freetown Polytechnic, received the donation on behalf of the institution. He expressed appreciation to the Government of China and UNDP for their support. Dr. Moriba stated that the 770 furniture units, along with the additional 400 expected, would significantly improve the learning environment and strengthen the institution's mission to provide comfortable, productive, and safe spaces for teaching and learning.