By Ibrahim Sesay
Orange Foundation Sierra Leone has taken a major leap in advancing digital learning across the country by donating a complete Digital School Kit to Freetown Cheshire Primary School.
The donation, presented during a special ceremony on Friday, May 23, 2025, at the Freetown Cheshire Home, includes tablets, a projector screen, a Bluetooth speaker and a solar power kit; tools aimed at empowering both pupils and educators through access to modern educational technology.
The initiative, part of the Foundation’s Digital School Kit Program, underscores Orange Foundation’s unwavering commitment to bridging the digital divide in schools across Sierra Leone.
In her remarks during the presentation, Finnah Stevens, Head of Coding at Orange Foundation, reaffirmed the organization’s mission to promote inclusive education, health and cultural development through targeted philanthropic efforts.
“These kits fall under our education pillar,” Finnah Stevens explained. “Each one is valued at approximately 6,000 euros; a cost most schools cannot afford.
That’s why we offer them free of charge. Sierra Leone should not be left behind in this global digital shift and through this program, we’re ensuring schools have the tools they need to keep up.
”Finnah Stevens also emphasized sustainability, noting that the kits are built to last if used responsibly. She assured that Orange Foundation will conduct periodic, unannounced monitoring visits to ensure the materials are being used effectively and maintained in good condition.
Grateful for the support, Acting Head Teacher, Neneh Beatrice Kamara, expressed heartfelt thanks on behalf of the school. She acknowledged the growing importance of digital skills in today’s world and stressed her commitment to ensuring the learning tools remain in the hands of pupils.
“This is a world that is fast embracing technology and our children must be equipped to participate in it. As Acting Head Teacher, I will enforce strict monitoring to ensure these resources are not misused.
They are for the pupils and teachers are here to guide and support them.”Reverend Canon Dr. Reginald Spaine-Pratt, a member of the school’s Management Committee, described the donation as a significant boost to the school’s educational mission.
“Digital tools are vital, but they are costly. Without this support, such an investment would have been beyond our reach,” he remarked.Also speaking at the event, Dr. Abdulai Dumbuya, Chairman of the Freetown Cheshire Home Management Committee, highlighted the inclusive vision of the institution and the value the donation brings.
“While this home was originally established for children with physical disabilities, we have since expanded to include all children to promote inclusivity. We still face infrastructural challenges, such as unreliable electricity and delayed Government support, but this donation is a step in the right direction.
It will help prepare our children for a more competitive future.”Echoing the sentiments of appreciation, Blessing Kallon, a resident at Freetown Cheshire Home, encouraged her peers to cherish and use the new learning tools wisely. “We are fortunate to receive this support,” she said.
“Let us make good use of it because many other schools would be glad to have this opportunity.”The event concluded with an earnest appeal from the school administration for continued support from partners like Orange Foundation in their future projects, as they work to create a more inclusive and technology-driven learning environment for all children.
