By Marion (Rion) Bangura
Authorities in Sierra Leone’s education sector have moved decisively to halt the growing practice of “school camping,” after investigations revealed troubling patterns of misconduct linked to the activity. The directive, issued by the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE), orders all government-assisted and private schools to immediately discontinue any form of camping conducted within school premises.
The decision follows increasing concern from regulators and community stakeholders who say the practice often presented as a form of intensive study sessions for pupils preparing for examinations has in several cases evolved into a system that undermines both academic standards and student welfare. Officials say evidence gathered during recent nationwide monitoring exercises exposed multiple violations of professional and ethical conduct among some educators.
According to the Ministry, certain schools have been running unauthorized evening or overnight classes under the banner of “camping,” sometimes pressuring pupils to attend while regular lessons during official school hours are neglected. In some cases, students were reportedly persuaded with misleading assurances that attendance at these sessions would guarantee better performance in public examinations or provide access to special assistance from teachers.
Education authorities argue that such practices distort the purpose of formal schooling and create unfair academic pressure on students and parents. Officials also noted complaints from parents and pupils about intimidation or subtle threats directed at those who declined to participate in the sessions.
The Ministry stressed that schools are meant to provide structured instruction during official hours and that teachers are expected to deliver the approved curriculum within that framework. Any extra lessons, the directive clarifies, must be conducted outside the physical premises of the school and should be arranged in environments that ensure safety, transparency, and parental awareness.
In addition, the Ministry made it clear that participation in supplementary lessons must remain entirely voluntary. Teachers and school administrators have been warned against forcing or coercing pupils into attending such classes or implying that academic success depends on participation.
Education officials emphasized that the directive applies to all categories of institutions, including private schools, community schools, and government supported establishments across the country.
To enforce the measure, the Ministry has authorized inspection teams to carry out unannounced monitoring visits to schools. These teams will assess compliance and investigate any allegations of continued camping activities or related misconduct.
Authorities say disciplinary measures will be taken against individuals or institutions that disregard the directive. Sanctions may include administrative investigations, suspension or dismissal of teachers and school leaders, withdrawal of official recognition from schools, or even the closure of institutions found to be repeatedly violating the policy. In severe cases, the matter could be referred for legal action.
Education stakeholders say the move reflects broader efforts by the government to restore professionalism and accountability within the school system. By eliminating practices viewed as exploitative or academically harmful, regulators hope to reinforce discipline among educators and ensure that pupils receive proper instruction during official learning hours.
The Ministry has urged school proprietors, principals, and head teachers to promptly communicate the directive to their staff and ensure immediate compliance, stressing that the integrity of Sierra Leone’s education system must remain protected from practices that compromise its credibility.
