Developing a National Digital Learning Strategy in Sierra Leone

• In Event: The Impact of tailored, rapid-response technical support on EdTech policy – evidence from the EdTech Hub’s Helpdesk

Proposal

In the last two decades, Sierra Leone has made significant progress in expanding access to education despite experiencing multiple challenges, including an Ebola crisis and, more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic, which have hindered the delivery of education services. Consequently, the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) and Teaching Service Commission (TSC) have continued to explore ways to leverage technology to address the teaching and learning crisis in the country and deliver inclusive, quality education for all learners. With this aim in mind, the MBSSE and TSC are focused on developing a National Digital Learning Strategy (NDLS) that will address how technology-supported interventions can be leveraged to meet and respond to the needs of stakeholders across the nation. The EdTech Hub’s Helpdesk, along with the World Bank, are working closely with the MBSSE and the TSC to create a National Digital Learning Strategy. The strategy will ensure that student learning is at the centre, highlighting key ways in which EdTech can be used to promote higher equity and access to learning services in Sierra Leone. The alignment of the NDLS with other national policies and education sector plans is central, ensuring that EdTech is being implemented while keeping other education sector goals and strategic priorities in mind.

This presentation will provide an overview of the strategy development process in Sierra Leone by the EdTech Hub. Central to the overall approach to strategy development are stakeholder participation and co-design, with a focus on equity and inclusion consideration. The session will highlight the key design elements that went into setting up a steering committee, frameworks used to develop an edtech landscape analysis that informed the strategy creation, and key takeaways on building and supporting strong and engaged relationships with government stakeholders. Finally, the presentation will also explore key challenges and opportunities identified while supporting the development of a national edtech strategy.

Author

• Iman Beoku-Betts, EdTech Hub