World Children’s Day Distribution Report

A Simple Tool That Opens Learning

On November 20th, thousands of students across Freetown received brand-new pencil pouches through Develop Africa’s Year of the Pencil campaign. Each pouch included 10 pencils and one sharpener, packed by volunteers and team members who spent days preparing supplies for all 20 schools.

For many children, this support removes a daily challenge. Teachers explained that some students arrive without a pencil and struggle to complete classwork. A single pouch now gives each child what they need to write, draw, spell, and participate fully.

How the Project Came Together

This effort was made possible through months of teamwork:

• The Sierra Leone team prepared 10,000 pouches by hand.
• All supplies were organized into labeled delivery bags for each school.
• Deliveries were made simultaneously across all 20 schools on World Children’s Day.
• The Freetown City Council supported the distribution and joined school visits.
• The Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation covered the event on the radio, sharing teacher and council comments.

Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation coverage of the Year of the Pencil 

What Schools and Teachers Shared

Head Teacher – Tamil Municipal School   
She explained that many children come to school without a pencil and often request one from teachers.   
With these new supplies, students can stay prepared, and teachers can focus on lessons.

Freetown City Council – Education Officer   
Council representatives stressed how early reading and writing strengthen long-term learning.   
Giving each child a pencil supports teachers who work hard to build these skills from the earliest grades.

Message From Our Team

Sylvester shared a brief update expressing gratitude to every donor, partner, and volunteer who helped reach the goal of 100,000 pencils delivered.   
He noted that these supplies put the right tools in children’s hands and support their learning journey.

Thank You for Making This Possible

Your support helped place essential tools into the hands of young learners across Sierra Leone.   
This project shows what we can achieve when we work together to strengthen education.

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