Sierra Leone's national context has remained largely unchanged across social and economic indicators since 2023/2024 and the 3rd quarter of 2025. The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (2024) marks a significant advancement in safeguarding children's rights, especially for girls, by unequivocally banning child marriage. The Child Rights Bill 2024 has also progressed through parliamentary stages and, if enacted, will reinforce protections from abuse, violence, and neglect.
The education sector continues to face deep-rooted challenges despite government and partner efforts to improve access, equity, and quality. The Free Quality School Education (FQSE) initiative increased enrollment; in 2023/2024, 3,461,876 pupils were enrolled (49% boys, 51% girls), a 3% increase over 2022/2023. The primary retention rate is estimated at 43%, indicating high dropout rates at the primary level.
3,461,876
Pupils enrolled (2023/24)
49% / 51%
Boys / Girls enrollment
43%
Primary retention rate
System pressures
- Shortage of trained teachers and limited mentorship.
- Overcrowded classrooms and inadequate learning materials.
- Low foundational literacy and numeracy outcomes.
- Youth unemployment and underemployment for recent graduates.