Sierra Leone's Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary School Education, Conrad Sackey, issued a warning to schools, teachers, and education officials across the country on July 27, 2026. The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education released a statement cautioning against the collection of illegal report card fees. This key directive was formalized in a Press Release issued on the same date, specifically warning against the practice of demanding unauthorized payments for these essential academic documents. Minister Sackey stated, "If any school insists on collecting money before handing over a report card, ask for an official receipt, and know that this demand is a red flag I need you to report to us." He urged individuals to report violations, adding, "Call our toll-free line, 8060 or reach any senior official in this Ministry directly. Every report will be taken seriously and we will act." The Minister emphasized that "Free Quality School Education means exactly that, free. I will not let illegal fees stand between any child and their education."
Directive Details and Authority
No school possesses the legal authority to charge parents or guardians any fee for the release of pupils' report cards, according to the Ministry. This stance shows a fundamental principle: report cards are considered the right of every pupil, and access to these documents must not be linked to any form of payment. The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education's directive was formalized in a press release, clearly outlining the new policy. The official press release, which serves as the Ministry's formal declaration on the matter, was signed by Edward Kpakra, the Chief Education Officer, showing the Ministry's firm and authoritative stance on the matter. This signature lends official weight to the directive, ensuring that all educational institutions are aware of the mandate. The Ministry further clarified that no school has the legal authority to charge parents or guardians any fee before releasing pupils’ report cards, reinforcing the illegality of such demands.
Parental Recourse and Reporting
Report cards are considered the rightful property of pupils and their families, and the Ministry emphasized that they must never be withheld due to unpaid or unauthorized charges. This declaration is a cornerstone of the new policy, safeguarding students' access to their academic records. Parents whose children are asked to pay money before receiving their report cards have been advised to request official receipts for any payments made. This measure is intended to provide tangible proof of any illicit transactions. The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education instructs parents to report such incidents directly to them if schools insist on collecting fees. This reporting mechanism is vital for the effective enforcement of the ban and for ensuring accountability within the education system.
Minister's Strong Stance
The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education has characterized the practice of demanding unauthorized payments for report cards as illegal and unacceptable. The Ministry further described this practice as contrary to the Government of Sierra Leone’s unwavering commitment to free quality education. This practice, according to the Ministry, runs contrary to the Government of Sierra Leone’s commitment to providing free quality education. The government's initiative aims to ensure that all students have unhindered access to educational services, including essential academic documents, without financial barriers. To facilitate the reporting of any violations, the Ministry has established a dedicated toll-free line. Individuals encountering demands for report card fees are encouraged to use this reporting mechanism. The toll-free number for reporting such incidents is 8060, providing a direct channel for parents and guardians to alert authorities to non-compliance with the new directive and ensure that the principle of free quality education is upheld for all.