Providing Comprehensive Educational Support in Africa
Education is not just a basic human right; it is the cornerstone of socioeconomic development and the key to breaking the cycle of 
poverty in Sierra Leone. Education is crucial as it is an investment in human capital.
At Develop Africa, we recognize that providing quality education to children is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic investment in the future of our nation. By providing quality educational opportunities to children, we empower them to unlock their full potential and shape a brighter future for themselves and their communities. Education is their best weapon against impoverishment, disease, early marriage, gang activities, and prostitution.
Education empowers women, helping them break from oppressive gender roles and contribute more significantly to society. Education can mean a healthy, long life or an unfortunately short one.
The importance of education cannot be overstated. It serves as a catalyst for increasing employment and income opportunities, thereby fostering economic growth and social mobility. Education is the golden key that unlocks the door to freedom for all Africans; it is the bedrock of social and economic development, serving as an investment in human capital that yields tremendous benefits at individual, familial, communal, and national levels.
Unfortunately, gaining access to quality education remains a significant challenge for many impoverished and underprivileged families in Sierra Leone. The lack of essential learning materials, consistent financial support, and conducive learning environments perpetuates educational disparities and contributes to high dropout rates.
According to UNESCO, of all regions, sub-Saharan Africa has the highest rates of educational exclusion. Over one-fifth of children between the ages of about 6 and 11 are out of school, followed by one-third of youth between the ages of about 12 and 14. According to UIS data, almost 60% of youth between 15 and 17 are not in school.
Taking Comprehensive Action
Develop Africa's initiatives encompass various interventions to promote educational access, quality, and equity. We believe that education is a proven path to alleviating poverty and driving lasting change. Quality education is a fundamental human right; by providing it, we empower beneficiaries to become leaders.
Educational Support: Scholarships or sponsorships make it possible for bright young minds to stay in school. The funds help cover tuition, books, after-school lessons/tutoring, school supplies, uniforms, and other school-related costs. By providing a scholarship to an African student, we promise the student that what they do in school has meaning and they will have the reinforcement they need. When a student receives a scholarship to attend school, s/he is less likely to drop out of school. Develop Africa’s scholarship efforts contributes to the achievement of the UN Millennium goal - to ensure that children will complete primary schooling. It is an effective long-term investment to eradicating poverty.
Higher Education - In Sierra Leone, most first-year students must pay full tuition at the start of the year. For most students, this financial requirement is impossible. The need for this support includes our current college students, recent West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) graduates who are applying to colleges, and students who will soon become eligible to enter college.
Mentoring: Mentoring sessions play a pivotal role in this process, allowing boys and girls to develop increased financial, life, and health skills while fostering motivation, confidence, and resilience. Through mentoring, youth are empowered to grow and become the best versions of themselves, overcoming internal challenges and setting ambitious goals for their future. Mentoring sessions include adolescent Sexual Health Education, teenage pregnancy prevention, and encouraging families to keep their girls in school (delay marriage).
Computer Training- Computer proficiency is necessary for success in today's technology-driven society. This essential training is in great demand, providing a much-needed foundation and equipping them for future success. Computer classes include Intro to Computers and Microsoft Office- Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint/Presentation, Microsoft Publisher, Microsoft Access/Database, and a hardware & networking course.
Workforce Empowerment- vocational training that provides job-related training in skills such as sewing/tailoring, cosmetology, baking, Gara/Tie Dying, and soap making, enhancing employability and income-generating opportunities.
Health & Well-Being- Providing food support, including nutritious school meals, and malaria prevention through bed nets
Child Sponsorships - Sponsoring a child provides the continuity of impact that is needed - impacting the growth and development of children. The critical area of empowerment that we focus on is education. When you sponsor a child, your funds support your child's education.
Teachers & Classrooms- equipping classrooms with desks, chairs, chalkboards & chalk, teaching supplies, school books, generators, gas, electricity, and books. Providing teachers with salary stipends and ongoing training. In 2022, Construction was started for a 3-room Nursery School in Kamawornie, completed in early 2024.
Long-term Impact
By investing in education, we are investing in the future of Sierra Leone. Education equips individuals with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed and fosters social cohesion, cross-cultural understanding, and healthier communities. It empowers women to break free from oppressive gender norms and contribute meaningfully to society., Education equips them with the tools to rise above poverty and become independent, informed decision-makers. This, in turn, enables them to significantly contribute to their families, communities, nation, and the world. Education reduces poverty and brings lasting empowerment and definite change.
As we strive to create a brighter future for all, let us remember that education is not just a privilege but a fundamental human right that must be upheld and protected. Together, let us continue championing education as a catalyst for positive change and a pathway to prosperity for future generations.
You can help - invest in education.
Your donations matter to young, eager scholars and their communities. You can make a world of difference.
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Students with their new pencils -
Boy with new school supplies -
Your Support is Making a Difference in My Life -
Girl at School -
Students with School Supplies -
Students at newly donated desks -
Boy with school lunch -
Girl with Exam Preparation Books
