The Sierra Leone Teachers Union has brought attention to the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education regarding the non-payment of school fees subsidies for the second and third terms of the 2023/2024 school year. In a formal letter addressed to the Minister, the Union highlighted the critical issue, emphasizing the potential implications for the government’s flagship program of Free Quality Education.

The letter, issued on the directive of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Union, underscores the urgency of addressing the outstanding payments. It pointed out that the delay in disbursing the Performance-Based Financing (PBF) funds for schools further exacerbates the situation, adding to the financial strain faced by educational institutions.

According to the Union, the timely payment of school fees subsidies is crucial not only for the financial stability of schools but also for ensuring a peaceful and successful closure of the school year. Failure to address these concerns could undermine the effectiveness of the government’s efforts to improve access to quality education for all Sierra Leonean children.

The Union expressed its expectation for urgent action from the Ministry to rectify the situation and ensure that schools receive the necessary financial support to fulfill their educational mandates.