The Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, has called for greater protection, access to education and equal opportunities for girls, stressing that empowering them is essential to Sierra Leone’s future development.
Sackey made the call while attending the National Girls Summit 2026, which is taking place in Kenema District from 13 to 17 October under the theme, “Our Power in Action; Protecting Our Future.”
The summit brought together distinguished leaders, including United Nations Resident Coordinator Seraphine Wakana, to discuss issues affecting girls and the need to strengthen their protection and empowerment.
According to Minister Sackey, the summit represents a call to action to ensure that girls have the opportunity to learn, lead, pursue their aspirations and fulfil their potential.
He emphasised that Sierra Leone’s future cannot be secured if girls are denied access to education and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to society.
The minister further stressed the importance of protecting girls against violence, harmful practices, exploitation and discrimination, while creating safe and inclusive learning environments where they can acquire the knowledge, confidence and skills needed to shape their futures.
He noted that every girl who remains in school, every barrier removed from her path and every opportunity provided to her represents an investment in the country’s development.
Sackey also highlighted the government’s focus on human capital development through education under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, while emphasising the need to ensure that every girl, regardless of her background or circumstances, has a fair opportunity to succeed.
He maintained that protecting girls helps safeguard their aspirations, while educating and investing in them contributes to the development of future generations.
The National Girls Summit 2026 provides a platform to highlight issues affecting girls and reinforce calls for their protection, education and empowerment across Sierra Leone.
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