Sierra Leone has received another major boost in its effort to strengthen education and child welfare, following the official handover of 1,800 metric tonnes of rice valued at about USD 2 million from the Government of the Republic of Korea through the World Food Programme (WFP).
The donation, presented during a ceremony in Freetown, reaffirms Korea’s commitment to supporting President Julius Maada Bio’s Free Quality School Education (FQSE) initiative, particularly its School Feeding Programme, which aims to keep children healthy and motivated to learn.
Representing the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, the National Coordinator of Free Quality Education, Mr. Augustine Koroma, expressed gratitude for the support, noting that the rice will benefit over 106,000 pupils in Bonthe, Kenema, Kambia, and Pujehun districts.
Mr. Koroma described the gesture as “an investment in Sierra Leone’s human capital,” emphasizing that the meals provided under the school feeding scheme go beyond nutrition — they help improve attendance, concentration, and performance among pupils.
The event was attended by key development partners, including WFP Country Representative Mr. Andrew Odero and a Counsellor from the Embassy of the Republic of Korea.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Mr. Koroma extended appreciation to the Government and people of Korea for their continued partnership and solidarity with Sierra Leone’s education sector.
Officials described the donation as further proof of international confidence in President Bio’s Human Capital Development Agenda, which prioritizes access to quality education, health, and skills training for all citizens.
“Under President Bio’s leadership, we continue to build a healthier, smarter, and stronger nation — one meal, one child, and one classroom at a time,” the Ministry stated.
