By Mackie M. Jalloh
The Orange Foundation has officially launched its 2026 Back-to-School Project in Kingtom, Freetown, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring equitable access to education for all children. The launch, which took place on [insert date], brought together government officials, community leaders, and the private sector in a symbolic show of collaboration to support vulnerable pupils.
The event was formally inaugurated by the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Mr. Konrad Sackey, who expressed his appreciation for the private sector’s continued involvement in addressing educational challenges in Sierra Leone. Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Sackey emphasized the critical role of initiatives like the Back-to-School Project in removing barriers that prevent children from attending school.
“I am delighted to officially launch the Orange Foundation Back-to-School Project,” the Minister said. “Education is a right, and no child should be left behind due to lack of basic school materials. Programs like this one provide essential support that enables pupils to learn, grow, and achieve their full potential. I call on other private and public institutions to emulate this commitment to our children.”
The project, implemented in partnership with Concern for Vulnerable Women and Children, provided school supplies to children in Kingtom, including exercise books, backpacks, pens, pencils, and mathematical sets. For many families, these contributions represent a meaningful relief, ensuring that children can attend school without the financial strain of acquiring basic learning materials.
Madam Aïcha Touré, Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone and founder of the Orange Foundation, addressed the children and gathered guests, highlighting the organization’s commitment to supporting education through practical interventions.
“At Orange, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, regardless of their circumstances,” Madam Touré said. “The Back-to-School Project is our way of leveling the playing field and giving every pupil the tools they need to succeed. Education is a foundation for a better future, and investing in our children is investing in Sierra Leone.”
The launch also featured an interactive session with the children, who expressed excitement upon receiving their new school materials. Teachers and community leaders lauded the initiative, noting that it helps reinforce the value of education while directly assisting those most in need.
Through partnerships with local organizations and active engagement with communities, the Orange Foundation continues to champion initiatives that address educational disparities. The Back-to-School Project is part of a broader effort by the Foundation to empower children, especially those from vulnerable backgrounds, to overcome challenges and thrive academically.
The Minister and CEO jointly encouraged other corporate entities, civil society organizations, and community stakeholders to join in supporting similar initiatives, emphasizing that collaborative efforts are key to ensuring every child in Sierra Leone has the opportunity to receive a quality education.
With programs like the Back-to-School Project, the Orange Foundation is proving that meaningful change is possible when the public and private sectors unite for the benefit of children—one child at a time.
