Locations
PROJECT INTRODUCTION
Sierra Leone, a country emerging from decades of adversity,including civil conflict, disease outbreaks, and economic shocks, is experiencing a new era of stability and development. Under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, the Government launched the Free Quality School Education (FQSE) Programme in 2018 to invest in human capital as a pathway to national prosperity. The FQSE initiative, embedded in the Sierra Leone Medium-Term National Development Plan (2024–2030), prioritizes inclusive access to quality education at all levels.
Despite progress, education in Sierra Leone continues to face significant challenges. Overcrowded classrooms, makeshift learning environments, and a lack of basic furniture constrain the delivery of quality education. This project seeks to bridge that gap by equipping schools, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centers, and universities with essential furniture. The goal is to create safe, inclusive, and conducive learning environments for children, youth, and adults,especially girls and women—across the country.
Direct beneficiaries: 14,770
Direct Beneficiaries: 14,770 (7,770 school children, 4,000 TVET learners, 3,000 university students)
Indirect Beneficiaries: 165,766 (teachers, families, community members, and local officials)
Women Beneficiaries: 90,268
Overall goal - The major goal is to support human capital development through the provision of furniture in the most vulnerable schools and universities in Sierra Leone.
Project Objective
To contribute to better access to quality education for the most vulnerable boys and girls, women and men, through the provision of adequate furniture (tables and chairs) to primary and secondary schools, vocational institutions, and universities.
Key Outcomes
- Improved learning environments for 7,770 primary and secondary school students.
- Increased capacity of higher education institutions to accommodate 7,000 TVET and university students.
- Reduced reliance on double shifts, improving contact hours and academic performance.
- Enhanced safety and dignity for girls, contributing to gender equality and reduced risk of exploitation.
Partners
- Ministry of Basic and Secondary School Education (MBSSE)
- Ministry of Technical and Higher Education
Duration : 12 months
Implemented on behalf of UNDP China
This project aligns to SDG's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and targets:
- SDG 4 : Inclusive and Equitable Education
- SDG 5 : Gender Equality
- SDG 10 – Reduce inequality within and among countries
Targeted districts :13
1. Koinadugu
2. Karene
3. Kono
4. Falaba
5. Western Area Rural
6. Western Area Urban
7. Bonthe
8. Kailahun
9. kenema
10. Bo
11. kambia
12. Tonkoliloi
13. Moyamba
A classroom in Sierra Leone