Educate the Future Leaders of Sierra Leone

There were 50 students in attendance at a recent mentoring session focused on sexual reproductive health and relationships, offering students crucial education that too often goes untaught.

In Sierra Leone, where conversations about puberty, consent, and healthy relationships are rarely held openly, this session made it possible for these young people to gain life-changing knowledge in a safe, respectful space.

The session brought together three expert speakers who shared medically accurate, age-appropriate, and empowering information:

• Ms. Isha D. (SRN Nurse) spoke about puberty, consent, and life planning beyond early pregnancy.

• Dr. Philip A. (Medical Doctor) covered reproductive health, the risks of early sexual activity, and how to identify healthy vs. unhealthy relationships.

• Mrs. Mimi N. gave a hands-on demonstration on the proper use of menstrual cups, a sustainable and cost-effective option for menstrual hygiene.

Students were eager to participate, asking thoughtful questions, which sparked important conversations and helped debunk common myths, while reinforcing the importance of informed decision-making and self-care.

Each participant received a hygiene kit with pads, shampoo, toothbrushes, and other toiletries—practical gifts that aligned with the day’s lessons and reinforced the importance of personal hygiene and dignity.

Thank you for believing in our youth and for investing in their education and dreams.  Your support is breaking down barriers and empowering future leaders in Sierra Leone.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please reach out to us at GlobalGiving@developafrica.org.
 

With gratitude,
The Develop Africa Team

Links:

• Empower Future Leaders in Sierra Leone with Education

Albert returned to Sierra Leone after an impactful STEM workshop in Kumasi, Ghana, where he collaborated with DEXT Technology to bring innovative learning tools back home. His mission was to transform science education in Sierra Leone by equipping teachers and students with the skills and resources to make STEM accessible and engaging.

Albert conducted an intensive training session for more than 20 teachers from the Pujehun District. The goal was to empower them with practical knowledge and hands-on experience using the DEXT Science Kits.

Key Activities During the Training:

• Teachers explored experiments such as constructing electric circuits, seed germination, and water filtration to illustrate complex scientific principles.
• They practiced assembling models like the digestive system and pulley systems, understanding how to explain these concepts effectively to students.
• Participants engaged in problem-solving activities designed to inspire creativity and critical thinking.

One teacher remarked, “This training has not only equipped us with the tools but also the confidence to make science come alive for our students.”

The impact of the training quickly reached students. Equipped with the DEXT Science Kits, teachers transformed their classrooms into hubs of exploration and innovation.

• Students eagerly experimented with circuits, observing how electricity flows and powers small devices.
• They built and tested pulley systems, learning about mechanical advantage through trial and error.
• The interactive nature of the science kits sparked curiosity and excitement, with students actively collaborating and problem-solving during lessons.

One student shared, “I didn’t know science could be this fun! I love building things and learning how they work.”

This initiative signifies a turning point for STEM education in Sierra Leone. By equipping teachers with modern tools and techniques and inspiring students to discover the joy of STEM, the groundwork for a future of innovation and opportunity is being laid.

Develop Africa and DEXT Technology, along with dedicated educators like Albert, continue to pave the way for a brighter future where hands-on learning is accessible to every child.

Thank you for believing in the power of education and empowering the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators. Together, we can make a difference!

Links:

• Video-Empowering Teachers and Students Through STEM Education
• Empower Future Leaders in Sierra Leone with Education