A recent assessment by the Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law – Sierra Leone (CARL-SL) has revealed significant inconsistencies in the implementation of the Free Quality School Education (FQSE) program, raising concerns over funding gaps and operational challenges in schools across the country.

The study, which surveyed selected districts, found that only about one-third of schools reported receiving government subsidies for school fees. Even among these, the payments frequently covered only the first term of the 2024/25 academic year, with no allocations made for the second and third terms at the time of assessment.

CARL-SL highlighted that the irregular and unpredictable flow of funds is creating serious operational difficulties for schools. Administrators struggle to pay teachers without Personal Identification Numbers (PIN codes), compensate auxiliary staff, and acquire essential teaching and learning materials. The report warns that these funding gaps threaten the continuity and quality of education provided under the FQSE program.

To address these challenges, CARL-SL is calling for more transparent and timely disbursement mechanisms, alongside stronger oversight to ensure that subsidies consistently reach schools throughout the academic year.

The organisation emphasised that predictable funding is crucial for enabling schools to operate effectively and deliver the intended benefits of the FQSE initiative.