By: Sulaiman Aruna Sesay
Sierra Leone, like many other developing countries, is faced with the challenge of providing access to education for its citizens, particularly in rural areas. Education is a fundamental human right, and therefore, the provision of free quality education is of paramount importance in Sierra Leone.
Free quality education in Sierra Leone has the potential to improve the country’s overall development by enhancing human capital, promoting social inclusion, and creating a skilled workforce, which can contribute to economic growth. Education is linked to economic development because it enhances the productivity of the labour force, leading to increased income, which has a positive impact on poverty reduction, wealth creation and reducing income inequality.
The provision of free quality education in Sierra Leone will also attract international attention, help create a positive image and promote the country as an attractive destination for several investments. 
The educations system has a significant impact on the perception of international investors, and if they are confident in the education system in the country, they are more likely to invest.
The free quality education will reduce the gap between the rich and the poor, empowering many underprivileged people. Education provides a means of socio-economic mobility, whereby people can climb the social ladder by improving their skills and knowledge base. However, in less developed countries like Sierra Leone, access to education is limited to the wealthy class, who can afford to pay for education.
Free quality education in Sierra Leone will also lead to reduced inequalities in gender, as it will increase access to education for girls, who are vulnerable to discrimination. The societal limitations coupled with poor socio-economic conditions, cultural norms and beliefs in Sierra Leone limit girls’ access to education. Therefore, free quality education will remove the financial burdens that were previously on the parents, making it easier for girls to attend school, and leading to increased enrolment.
The free quality education has the potential to strengthen democracy, good governance, and social cohesion in Sierra Leone as it provides everyone, irrespective of tribe, religion, social or economic status, access to knowledge, skills and tools that will enable full participation in political processes, decision-making and public life. Moreover, education provides people with the opportunity to express themselves, share ideas, and participate in debates, both at the local and national level, leading to empowered individuals.
Free quality education is essential for Sierra Leone’s future. Improving the access to quality education will be crucial to achieving sustainable economic development and reducing poverty. Additionally, providing free quality education will lead to a more inclusive society, where every citizen, irrespective of their socio-economic status, ethnic group or gender, has equal opportunities to access education and full participation in all aspects of societal life. Providing quality education must be a priority for any developing nation that seeks to build a prosperous and stable society.
