By Francis Conteh
Sierra Leone’s education authorities have banned the long-standing practice known as “camping,” citing concerns over inequality, exploitation and threats to the integrity of the country’s examination system.
The directive, issued jointly by the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) and key education stakeholders, marks a shift from years of tolerance to strict enforcement against the practice, which involves intensive off-site study sessions for pupils ahead of exams.
Other institutions backing the ban include the Sierra Leone Teachers Union (SLTU), the Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (CPSS), the National Council of Head Teachers (NaCoHT), the National Union of Private Schools (NUPS) and the Association of Independent Schools (AIS).
Authorities say “camping,” once seen as a form of academic support, has evolved into a parallel, profit-driven system that undermines formal schooling. They argue it places financial pressure on parents, disadvantages pupils who cannot afford extra lessons and weakens confidence in national examinations.
Parents and pupils have long described the system as coercive. Some families say they feel compelled to pay for the sessions amid fears their children may otherwise fail, while pupils report long hours in crowded study environments under intense pressure.
Education officials and sector observers have also linked the practice to broader concerns, including reduced classroom teaching quality, as well as increased risks of examination malpractice in unregulated settings.
The government’s Education Sector Plan (2022–2026) identifies exam malpractice, weak accountability and unequal learning conditions as major challenges, calling for stronger oversight and improved quality of instruction within schools.
Under the new directive, schools are prohibited from organising or facilitating camping, while parents have been advised not to allow their children to participate. Extra classes conducted outside school premises are also banned.
Authorities warned that violations could result in sanctions, including withdrawal of examination centre status, disciplinary measures against school administrators, closure of institutions and possible further legal action.
Officials said the move is aimed at restoring fairness and integrity in the education system by ensuring that learning takes place within regulated school environments and that success in examinations is based on merit rather than financial means.
While acknowledging that enforcement may be challenging, education authorities say the ban is necessary to rebuild trust in the system and ensure equal opportunities for all pupils.
