Sierra Leone recently wrapped up its annual Education Week in Makeni, under the theme “Artificial Intelligence and Automation: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation.” The event, a cornerstone in the nation’s educational calendar, brought together policymakers, educators, students, and other stakeholders to discuss the intersection of technology and human potential in shaping the future of education and development.

In his closing remarks, H.E. Julius Maada Wonie Bio, the 5th President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to equipping the country’s youth for leadership roles in the fourth industrial revolution. President Bio emphasized the importance of education as a transformative tool, noting that the nation is making strides toward becoming a knowledge hub in the West African subregion.

“We have made significant progress in our commitment to educating our children, preparing them to lead and contribute to the fourth industrial revolution and the transformation of our country,” the President stated.

The theme of this year’s Education Week highlights a pressing global issue: how to harness the potential of artificial intelligence and automation while ensuring that human agency remains central. By focusing on this topic, Sierra Leone is taking proactive steps to prepare its workforce for an increasingly automated world, where critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability will play pivotal roles.

President Bio called for collective action to sustain and enhance educational development in Sierra Leone, urging stakeholders to prioritize innovation and inclusivity in the country’s learning ecosystem. “Let us work together to nurture, promote, strengthen, and safeguard education as a means to drive our development forward,” he said.

Under the leadership of President Bio, the government has implemented several initiatives aimed at improving access to quality education. The Free Quality School Education (FQSE) program, launched in 2018, has already benefited millions of children, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to laying a solid foundation for the country’s future.

As Sierra Leone positions itself as a knowledge hub, events like Education Week serve as critical platforms for dialogue, collaboration, and progress. By embracing technological advancements while safeguarding human agency, the nation is charting a path toward sustainable development and global competitiveness.

The conclusion of this year’s Education Week in Makeni marks another milestone in Sierra Leone’s journey to transform its educational landscape and empower its youth to thrive in the digital age.