Educate the Future Leaders of Sierra Leone

Thanks in part to your generous support, all 100,000 pencils from the Year of the Pencil initiative were successfully distributed to 20 schools across Freetown on November 20th. Among the schools reached was Rural Education Community (REC) Primary School in Ogoo Farm, Goderich, where 460 students each received a pencil pouch with 10 pencils and a sharpener.

This distribution addressed a critical need. For many students, a pencil is not just a basic school supply—it is essential for participating in lessons, completing assignments, and building confidence in the classroom. Teachers shared that before receiving these supplies, students often had to borrow or share pencils, limiting their ability to fully engage in learning.

Because of you, students at REC Primary School now have reliable access to the tools they need to learn, stay focused, and take part confidently in class. Classrooms are experiencing renewed participation, improved morale, and a stronger learning environment.

We are deeply thankful for your commitment to ensuring that no child is left behind simply because they lack basic learning materials.

As we look ahead to 2026, we remain committed to empowering young learners across Sierra Leone. We invite you to stay connected and continue making a meaningful impact. Together, we are building a stronger foundation for education—one pencil, one child, and one classroom at a time.

With gratitude,
Amy & the Develop Africa Team
GlobalGiving@developafrica.org

Links:

• Empower Future Leaders in Sierra Leone with Education
• Photo Album- REC Primary School Ogoo

The first session of the Python Pioneers Coding Camp was recently held at the Develop Africa Lab in Juba Hill, marking an important milestone in expanding access to digital education for children in Sierra Leone.

In partnership with local education organizations, Develop Africa Sierra Leone is hosting this 10-week, hands-on coding camp designed for children ages 10–14. The program introduces young learners to Python programming, creative problem-solving, and teamwork, helping them build confidence while exploring the world of technology.

The inaugural training session lasted approximately three hours and welcomed 25 students, most of whom were under the age of 12. During this session, students were introduced to LEGO SPIKE robotics and basic Python coding concepts. Through guided, hands-on activities, participants built and programmed simple robots—learning how hardware and software work together in a fun, engaging way.

Students were highly engaged throughout the session, asking questions, collaborating with peers, and eagerly testing their creations. For many, this was their first-ever experience with coding and robotics.

In today’s digital world, computer literacy is no longer optional—it is essential. Yet many children in Sierra Leone lack access to early technology education that can unlock future academic and career opportunities.

This initiative is a long-term investment. While the full impact will unfold over time, early exposure to coding and problem-solving lays a strong foundation. As these students grow older, the skills and confidence they are developing now will better prepare them for secondary education, higher learning, and future careers in technology and innovation.

This program—and its promising first session—would not be possible without the generous support of donors like you.

Together, we are building a pathway for children to learn, innovate, and lead—starting with curiosity, creativity, and code.

Thank you for believing in the power of education and for investing in the future of Sierra Leone’s next generation.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Amy and the Develop Africa Team
GlobalGiving@developafrica.org

Links:

• Empower Future Leaders in Sierra Leone with Education