Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The Sierra Leone Kids Advocacy Network has officially launched the Light-Her Path Scholarship Project, a transformative education initiative designed to empower girls and young women through financial support, mentorship, and access to learning resources.
The launch ceremony took place at the Africell American Corner on Bathurst Street, attracting key stakeholders from civil society, academia, and government.
The scholarship targets girls aged 16 to 25 who face financial and social barriers to education. It supports both in-school and out-of-school girls, offering tuition assistance and vocational training in areas such as tailoring, soap-making, and cake-making.
The initiative aims to break cycles of poverty and exclusion by equipping beneficiaries with tools for leadership, innovation, and socio-economic advancement.
Executive Director Edmond Alim B. Fornah emphasized that the project goes beyond traditional scholarship models.
“We’re not just paying fees we’re building futures,” he said.
Beneficiaries will receive structured mentorship from accomplished women leaders, including members of the 50 Most Influential Women platform, to foster confidence and leadership.
A 13-member multi-stakeholder selection committee, chaired by gender activist and university lecturer Madam Fatu Taqi, will oversee the rigorous application review process. The committee includes representatives from Parliament, women’s forums, financial institutions, higher education, and the sports sector.
Initial funding of $20,000 was donated by Hon. Sidi Mohamed Tunis, former Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament. First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio has also pledged her support, with additional contributions expected from other partners.
Special guest Delicia Boyle-Kikulwe, a contestant in Housemates Salone Season 4, shared her personal journey as a university student and mother of three. She encouraged applicants to embrace education as a lifelong skill and a path to independence.
“Education is not just about grades it’s about confidence, critical thinking, and self-worth,” she said.
Madam Taqi called on communities to spread the word and support eligible girls in applying.
“This scholarship lights the path for girls who’ve been left in the shadows,” she noted. “It’s about visibility, opportunity, and lasting impact.”
Application Details
Eligibility Criteria
For In-School Girls:
Must be enrolled in tertiary education.
From a low-income or vulnerable household.
Demonstrates academic potential and leadership.
Faces financial or social barriers.
For Out-of-School Girls:
Aged 16 to 25.
Dropped out or never attended formal schooling.
Interested in returning to school.
From a disadvantaged background.
Application Period: October 24 – November 14, 2025
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