On Thursday, August 24th, 2023, the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) bid a heartfelt farewell to Mari Shojo (PhD), an esteemed Senior Education Specialist from the World Bank, who has been deeply engaged in Sierra Leone's education sector since 2019.
Mari Shojo, holding a PhD, has held the role of Senior Education Specialist within the Education Global Practice of the World Bank. In this capacity, she has been instrumental in lending her expertise to analytical undertakings and lending initiatives across the African Region, with a strong focus on Sierra Leone. Her dedication has centered on areas including primary and secondary education, early childhood development, fostering human capital, and enhancing skills development in the nation.
Before joining the World Bank, Mari Shojo (PhD) had previously collaborated with JICA, as well as various universities, in roles that involved education decentralization, school-based management, teacher advancement, and higher education enhancements in both Africa and the Middle East. Her academic journey encompasses a master's degree in economics and a PhD in international education policy from Kobe University, Japan.
In his remarks, Minister Conrad Sackey of the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education emphasized President Bio's unwavering belief in Sierra Leone's resurgence. He expressed deep appreciation for Mari's collaborative spirit, referring to her as not just an appreciated partner, but also a cherished one. He warmly welcomed her into the African family.
Minister Sackey recounted his early encounters with Mari during his tenure as Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission (TSC). He attested to her role as a mentor, adviser, and a courageous voice capable of speaking truth to power. On behalf of the vast educational community including over 85,000 teachers and more than 3,000,000 learners, Minister Sackey extended gratitude to Mari for her dedicated service to Sierra Leone.
The farewell event was graced by prominent figures from the MBSSE's senior management team, the Free Education Project Secretariat, and the Teaching Service Commission. Dr. Yatta Kanu, Chief Education Officer of MBSSE, commended Mari for her exceptional adaptability and empathy, asserting that her qualities stood unparalleled among collaborators. Dr. Kanu highlighted Mari's significant contributions in shaping impactful policies that continue to benefit the Ministry.
Permanent Secretary Mr Brima S.T. Kebbie and Project Coordinator Mr. Ambrose Sesay from the Free Education Project Secretariat shared how Mari's involvement had significantly streamlined their responsibilities. They expressed the hope that the World Bank might consider sending a successor embodying the qualities and effectiveness exhibited by Mari.
In a heartfelt parting message, Mari Shojo (PhD) expressed her deep connection to Sierra Leone, particularly during the challenging times brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. She applauded the resilient spirit of the Sierra Leonean people, urging their remarkable perseverance to be recognized globally. Mari commended Sierra Leone's resolute commitment to education, noting the nation's noteworthy allocation of more than 20% of its budget to this vital sector.
Expressing her genuine desire to continue her involvement, Mari acknowledged the senior management decision that necessitated her departure. She assured that her support would remain accessible, welcoming communication via email or phone. As she departs, Mari Shojo (PhD) will pass the torch to another Senior Education Specialist hailing from Bangladesh, aiming to continue the collaborative efforts to enhance education in Sierra Leone.