Following reports that some schools are charging parents and guardians before releasing pupils’ report cards, the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) has declared the practice unlawful and ordered an immediate end to it.
In a press release, the Ministry said no school, teacher, or education official is authorised to demand or collect money from parents and guardians as a condition for issuing report cards at the end of any academic term. It described the practice as illegal, unacceptable, and contrary to the Government of Sierra Leone’s Free Quality School Education (FQSE) policy.
The Ministry emphasised that report cards are the right of every pupil and their parents or guardians and must be issued without any financial conditions. It noted that withholding report cards over unauthorised payments undermines the principles of equitable access to education.
Parents and guardians whose children are asked to make such payments have been advised to request an official receipt for any money collected. The Ministry further warned that any payment demanded outside approved Ministry guidelines should be treated as a red flag and reported immediately.
To strengthen compliance, the Ministry urged members of the public to report schools or individuals engaged in the practice through its toll-free line 8060 or by contacting senior officials directly. It assured the public that all complaints would be investigated and that appropriate disciplinary action would be taken against anyone found to have violated the directive.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to protecting every child’s right to quality education and ensuring that no pupil is denied access to their academic records because of unauthorised financial demands. It also called on school authorities, teachers, parents, and guardians to work together in upholding transparency, accountability, and the objectives of the Free Quality School Education programme.
