By Mohamed Larry Kamara and Ibrahim S. Bangura
Kambia District, Sierra Leone – On September 9, 2024, the Disabled and Orphaned Children’s Development – Sierra Leone (DOC-SL) organized a milestone event at Kukuna Court Barry, the headquarters of Bramaia Chiefdom, distributing essential school materials to thirty underprivileged students. The beneficiaries, including disabled children and orphans from both Bramaia and Khonimaka Chiefdoms, received much-needed support to improve their educational prospects.
This distribution, part of DOC-SL’s ‘Disabled and Orphan Children Educational Supports Project,’ included school uniforms, bags, books, shoes, pens, pencils, and other critical learning tools. The pupils, drawn from eight schools across the chiefdoms, received the supplies with enthusiasm, marking a significant moment in the educational development of these underserved communities.
Speaking at the event, Mohamed Dumbuya, also known as Frank Med, Executive Director of DOC-SL, emphasized that the initiative was more than just providing supplies. “Education is the key to success,” Dumbuya said. “By supporting these children, we aim to encourage their education and ease the financial burden on their parents.” The initiative focused on primary school pupils, from classes one through six, with the goal of building a strong foundation for their academic futures.
Dumbuya also announced DOC-SL’s future plans to extend their support to other chiefdoms within Kambia District. The organization remains committed to empowering children, preventing them from falling into harmful activities, and promoting positive societal development. Registered with the Ministry of Social Welfare, Gender and Children’s Affairs and the Kambia District Council, DOC-SL aims to expand its impact across Sierra Leone.
The community’s response to the initiative was overwhelmingly positive. Parents, pupils, teachers, and local leaders expressed their gratitude for DOC-SL’s contribution to the chiefdoms. Many noted that the organization’s efforts were not only boosting educational opportunities but also contributing to broader community development.
One of the beneficiaries, Mahawa M. Sillah, a primary six pupil at Tawfiq Islamic Primary School, expressed her appreciation. An orphan who previously struggled to obtain school materials, Sillah said the new supplies had motivated her to excel in her studies. “Having these learning materials will help me make the most of my education,” she said.
Parents from Khonimaka Chiefdom also expressed their thanks. Mohamed Bangura, a parent representative, highlighted the importance of DOC-SL’s work. “This shows that DOC-SL truly cares about our people and the chiefdom,” he said. “We will ensure that our children make the most of this opportunity.”
Founded in 2021, DOC-SL has played a pivotal role in reducing illiteracy and promoting education in Bramaia and Khonimaka Chiefdoms. The organization is an essential part of Sierra Leone’s national development agenda, empowering orphans, disabled individuals, youth, women, and children through education and advocacy. DOC-SL’s efforts continue to create a brighter future for vulnerable children and communities across the country.