MBSSE and CGA Technologies Discuss New Education Initiative for Sierra Leone

Conrad Sackey, the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE), held a crucial meeting with Muniru Kawa, Country Lead of CGA Technologies, and Hannah Graham, the Managing Director from the same firm. CGA Technologies is renowned for its scalable and sustainable technology systems aimed at aiding nations in achieving their development objectives.

The primary focus of the meeting was to discuss CGA Technologies’ parent organization, Corus, and its support for a new education initiative in Sierra Leone. Hannah Graham provided an in-depth explanation of the initiative’s design and strategy, which aims to significantly enhance educational outcomes in the country.

Key Discussion Points

1. Fundraising Efforts
   • A significant part of the discussion was dedicated to Corus’s fundraising efforts to ensure the initiative’s long-term sustainability. Effective fundraising is essential for the continuous support and growth of the educational programs being planned.
2. Utilization of Government Data
   • The use of government data to monitor children’s attendance and retention rates was another critical topic. The initiative requires formal approval from the Ministry to access and utilize this data, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with the Ministry of Education.
3. Grant Proposal to the McCarthy Foundation
   • The meeting included discussions on a potential $100 million grant proposal to the McCarthy Foundation. This grant aims to expand the initiative throughout Sierra Leone, providing comprehensive support to vulnerable children and addressing various barriers to education.
4. Public Outreach and Communication
   • Hannah Graham stressed the importance of coordinating with the government and enhancing public outreach efforts. Strategic communication plans will be developed to engage stakeholders and the general public effectively, ensuring broad support for the initiatives.
5. Support for Vulnerable Children and Children with Disabilities
   • The initiative focuses on leveraging technology to support “more vulnerable learners,” ensuring they receive quality education. Discussions included providing incentives for “vulnerable and marginalized children” to support their education, encouraging participation and retention in educational programs.

Comprehensive Support Services

The grant proposal to the McCarthy Foundation includes plans for cash support and wraparound services. These services will address various barriers to education for vulnerable children, including:

• Financial Difficulties
• Protection Concerns
• Health Issues
• Sexual Reproductive Health Needs

The goal is to connect these children to existing services and support systems, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to continue their education.

With a well-designed initiative, robust fundraising efforts, and strategic government coordination, this collaboration between MBSSE and CGA Technologies has the potential to make a lasting impact on the education sector. By focusing on the needs of vulnerable children and ensuring they have access to quality education, this initiative aims to create a brighter future for the youth of Sierra Leone.

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to continue working together to achieve the ambitious goals of the initiative, aiming to enhance educational outcomes and provide comprehensive support to those who need it the most.