By Usman Fambuleh
The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) has issued a nationwide ban on all forms of school camping within school premises, a move aimed at curbing professional misconduct and improving the quality of education in Sierra Leone.
In an official press release dated 6 March 2026, the Ministry directed all proprietors, principals, head teachers, and school administrators of both government and private schools to immediately halt the organization of camping classes on school compounds.
The decision follows a nationwide monitoring exercise and school survey, which revealed that some teachers and schools were engaging in practices that negatively affect pupils’ academic development. According to the Ministry, credible reports indicated that some teachers were not delivering lessons effectively during regular school hours but instead organized unauthorized camping classes. In certain cases, pupils were misled with false assurances about external examinations or reportedly harassed or deliberately failed for refusing to attend these classes.
“These practices are unethical, unprofessional, and unacceptable, and they undermine the credibility and integrity of the education system,” the Ministry stated in the release.
Under the new directives, all camping within school premises is strictly prohibited. However, the Ministry clarified that extra lessons may continue outside school compounds, provided they are conducted in safe environments with adequate supervision and security. Such lessons must remain voluntary and not be imposed on pupils.
School administrators and teachers have also been instructed to cease pressuring pupils or parents to attend additional classes.
The Ministry warned that any school found violating the directive will face serious consequences, including investigations, suspension or dismissal of staff, withdrawal of government recognition, potential closure of the school, and legal action where necessary. Inspection teams may conduct unannounced visits to ensure compliance.
The directive forms part of broader government efforts to restore discipline, professionalism, and integrity within Sierra Leone’s education sector.
