By Ibrahim Sesay
In a significant move to advance digital learning across Sierra Leone, Orange Foundation Sierra Leone has donated a complete Digital School Kit to Freetown Cheshire Primary School. The donation, presented during a special ceremony last Friday at the Freetown Cheshire Home, includes tablets, a projector screen, a Bluetooth speaker, and a solar power kit—tools designed to empower both pupils and educators through access to modern educational technology.
This initiative is part of the Foundation’s broader Digital School Kit Program, which reflects Orange Foundation’s ongoing commitment to bridging the digital divide in schools nationwide.
Speaking at the event, Finnah Stevens, Head of Coding at Orange Foundation, emphasized the organization’s mission to support inclusive education, health, and cultural development through strategic philanthropy.
“These kits fall under our education pillar,” Stevens explained. “Each one is valued at approximately €6,000—a cost that most schools simply cannot afford. That’s why we provide them free of charge. Sierra Leone must not be left behind in the global digital shift, and through this program, we’re ensuring schools have the tools they need to stay current.”
Stevens also highlighted the importance of sustainability, assuring that the kits are designed for long-term use if handled responsibly. She added that the Foundation will carry out periodic, unannounced monitoring visits to ensure proper usage and maintenance of the equipment.
Neneh Beatrice Kamara, Acting Head Teacher of the school, expressed her deep gratitude on behalf of the staff and pupils. She acknowledged the increasing relevance of digital literacy and affirmed her commitment to safeguarding the equipment for its intended purpose.
“We live in a world rapidly embracing technology, and our children must be prepared to participate,” Kamara said. “As Acting Head Teacher, I will enforce strict monitoring to ensure these resources are not misused. They are for the pupils, and our role as teachers is to guide and support them.”
Also in attendance was Reverend Canon Dr. Reginald Spaine-Pratt, a member of the school’s Management Committee, who described the donation as a major boost to the school’s educational mission.
“Digital tools are essential, yet expensive. Without this kind of support, such an investment would have been out of our reach,” he noted.
Dr. Abdulai Dumbuya, Chairman of the Freetown Cheshire Home Management Committee, praised the donation as aligning with the institution’s inclusive vision.
“Though originally established for children with physical disabilities, our home has since opened its doors to all children to foster inclusivity,” Dr. Dumbuya said. “We still face challenges—like unreliable electricity and limited government support—but this donation is a positive step. It will help prepare our children for a more competitive future.”
The event also featured remarks from Blessing Kallon, a resident of the Freetown Cheshire Home, who encouraged her fellow pupils to use the new learning tools wisely.
“We are fortunate to receive this support,” she said. “Let’s make the most of it. Many schools would be grateful for this opportunity.”
The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt appeal from the school’s administration for ongoing support from partners like the Orange Foundation, as they work toward building a more inclusive, technology-driven learning environment for all children.