September 8, 2011: “If we do not learn English language, what will our future be,” asks a student from Bombali, Sierra Leone.

Learning proper English, speaking, grammar and composition, has become increasingly difficult in Sierra Leone, but can be a key to further education and boost employment skills. Over the last three years, the pass rate for the national English exam has averaged at 13.23% nationally. From 2009 to 2010, there was a 5% point drop from roughly 18% to 13%.

The Sierra Leone Teachers Union cites the causes in the declining test scores as:

• Quality of teaching and teaching staff has hindered student’s performance
• Scarcity of teachers qualified to teach English language in senior schools
• Poor service conditions in the teaching profession deters good potentials teachers to opt for other jobs
• Inadequate supply or lack of appropriate learning and teaching materials
• Insufficient short courses for teachers in English language.

 “By improving English language skills, children can further their education and improve their options for employment as adults,” said Plan Sierra Leone Country Director Augustine Allieu.

Increasing access to quality education

Plan works to improve the access to quality education in Sierra Leone as part of its approach to helping children realise their rights. The ability to clearly communicate in English can be a stepping stone for increased financial security and independence as an adult. Working in cooperation with the British Council, Plan has developed a radio classroom programme to help train teachers of English language.

Beginning in June 2011, Teach English Radio features 20, 15 minute episodes; broadcast twice a week through radio stations in Bombali, Port Loko, Moyamba and Kailahun Districts. Topics of these shows include:

• Using English in the classroom
• Teaching a new language
• Planning your lesson
• Using group work in large classes.

Plan is also sponsoring the additional training of English teachers through distance learning and at local colleges. By providing the skills needed to teach English, Plan is increasing the children’s access to quality education, and in turn increasing their prospects for the future.

A second programme, Learn English Radio targets learners of English. Broadcast two times a week, the episodes encourage, enhance and reinforce the language skills learned in the classroom.

“I sit by my radio on English Radio night, eager for my next lesson,” commented one girl.

Listen to a clip from the Teach English radio broadcast