By Ishmael Sallieu Koroma
Freetown, August 2024 — In a commendable effort to enhance educational opportunities in the central region, the Central One University Students’ Association (COUSA) has launched its annual free holiday summer classes for WASSCE candidates. The initiative began at the Government Rokel Secondary School in Freetown.
Osman Lamin Turay, the Coordinator of the summer classes, announced that this year’s program aims to benefit approximately 200 students across various faculties, including Arts, Commercial, and Science. This marks the second consecutive year COUSA has organized such educational support, reflecting their commitment to giving back to the community.
“This is a free summer program for SSS 3 pupils,” Turay explained. “We believe this is our way of contributing to the community. We have been running this initiative for two years now.”
Turay emphasized that the summer classes align with COUSA’s motto of ‘learning’ and expressed hope that the students will gain valuable knowledge, apply themselves effectively in their examinations, and avoid malpractice.
“We hope these students will learn a lot and apply their knowledge in exams, helping them steer clear of examination malpractice, which is a concern in our country,” Turay added.
Throughout the summer program, COUSA will provide quality education and focus on key topics from the WASSCE curriculum. Turay urged all eligible pupils to participate, highlighting that the initiative has been funded solely through member contributions, with no external support.
Mr. Brima Bah, a key stakeholder in the central community, praised the summer school program as a vital support system for students who might otherwise be disengaged during their vacation. Bah highlighted the program’s broader goals, including preparing students for both WASSCE exams and future tertiary education.
“This program also aims to inspire and motivate students, offer counseling on issues like alcohol and drug abuse, and secure additional financial and logistical support for those needing further assistance,” Bah said. He revealed plans to extend the program to include weekend sessions and a full month of remedial classes leading up to the WASSCE exams.
Bah called on members of the Freetown Central Community, both locally and abroad, as well as education enthusiasts and supporters, to contribute directly or indirectly to this initiative. “Your support can significantly increase the chances of many students in our community,” he urged.
