Innovative Finance
August 1, 2024
Context and Issue
Sierra Leone's education sector has seen increased enrollment rates, yet access remains unequal. Despite these gains, learning outcomes are troublingly low, with high rates of repetition and drop-outs. A 2014 assessment revealed 87% of Grade 2 students couldn't read a single word, and only 50% of Basic Education Certificate Examination candidates passed in English or mathematics. The quality of education suffers due to poorly trained teachers, inadequate learning environments and materials, and an ineffective student assessment system. Governance and management challenges worsen these issues.
Solution
The Revitalizing Education Development in Sierra Leone (REDiSL) project aimed to enhance the learning environment in targeted schools and establish monitoring systems for education interventions. It adopted a two-pronged strategy: supporting disadvantaged schools and strengthening education systems. Despite challenges such as a difficult political environment and limited access, the project addressed key issues and laid the groundwork for sector improvement.
REDiSL aligned with the Education Sector Plan, focusing on decentralization through Performance-Based Financing (PBF). PBF aimed to boost equity by targeting councils with poor outcomes and high poverty levels. It also aimed to enhance learning environments and build the capacities of school management committees and education staff. PBF indicators included regular student assessments and teacher presence during school visits. REDiSL promoted technology innovation, digitizing school census and assessments and using remote learning during crises. Technology assisted in addressing data gaps and facilitated information flow from schools to central levels, aiding decision-making.
Impact
The REDiSL project significantly improved school performance through performance-based financing (PBF). Over 1,800 schools in disadvantaged districts received PBF grants, resulting in enhanced attendance rates, teacher engagement, student proficiency, and learning conditions. Report cards provided schools with valuable feedback for self-assessment and improvement.