By Foday Moriba Conteh
In a remarkable demonstration of patriotism and philanthropy, Mrs. Catherine (Cathy) Okrafo-Smart, a Sierra Leonean residing in the United Kingdom, has successfully constructed and inaugurated a three-storey facility, the Peninsula Education Programme (PEP) Adult Literacy and Vocational Institute, at Grassfield, Lumley, Freetown.
The grand opening, held on Thursday, November 6, 2025, was officiated by the Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, marking a significant milestone in advancing adult education and skills empowerment in the country. The event also featured the consecration and dedication of the building by Bishop-Elect Mrs. Elizabeth Eleanor Wuya Sowa, Senior Pastor of Faith UBC Church, Lumley.
Established in 2015, the Peninsula Education Programme (PEP) has provided free adult literacy classes to hundreds of Sierra Leoneans, transforming lives through reading, writing and basic education. With the commissioning of this new three-floor institute, the program is now set to expand into vocational and computer skills training, equipping learners with the tools to improve their livelihoods and actively contribute to national development.
During the ceremony, four beneficiaries shared heartfelt testimonies of how PEP had changed their lives:
Mariama Bah: “I never attended school, but thanks to PEP, after just seven months I can now read and even write a list of what my boss wants me to buy in the market.”
Hassan Bangura: “Before joining PEP, I could not even write my own name. Now, I can read simple sentences and sign for myself at the bank.”
Mary Sandy: “Learning to read and write has given me confidence. I no longer feel left out when people are reading messages.”
Musa Koroma: “PEP has changed my life. I now dream of pursuing a computer course when the vocational institute starts, since cars are computerized. I want to become a mechanic and open my own workshop one day.”
Speaking at the inauguration, Catherine Okrafo-Smart expressed gratitude for God’s guidance and shared the inspiring story behind her journey:
“Life is a journey filled with twists and turns. When I retired in 2014, I knew my next chapter would be dedicated to addressing the high illiteracy rate in Sierra Leone. With the support of my children Rachel and Ralph, and friends from my Anglican Church in London, PEP was born in 2015.
Using my superannuation funds, I purchased land and built the first classrooms; every brick and every board came from my own resources. Despite the challenges, God’s blessings have guided and sustained this vision.
Today, we celebrate not just a building, but a beacon of hope and opportunity. I appeal to everyone, sponsor a learner, help someone gain a skill, transform a life and strengthen our nation.”
A member of the Rotary Club of Hampstead, London (District 1130), Catherine Okrafo-Smart is a Double Paul Harris Fellow, having served as both Secretary and President of her club, further evidence of her lifelong commitment to service above self.
Members of the PEP Board of Trustees presented a Citation of Honour to Catherine Okrafo-Smart for her dedication and commitment to giving back to Sierra Leone.
In her acknowledgments, she thanked the Board Chair, Olagbemide Brainerd and members Jenneh Amara-Bangali, Ambassador Ebun Aforo, Dr. (Mrs.) Nemata Majeks-Walker, Francis Charley, Mrs. Ebun James-Dekam and Mrs. Emma Simbo-Fraser for their wisdom, leadership and support. She also extended appreciation to YSLEEP Charity for donating a water well that now benefits both the institute and the surrounding community.
Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, visibly touched by the initiative, praised Catherine Okrafo-Smart’s generosity and vision, describing her as “an inspiring example of Sierra Leonean resilience and love for country.” He pledged to sponsor the first ten students to enroll at the institute.
Similarly, Haja Demu Sesay, Executive member of the Eminent Women Peace Mediators and the 50/50 Group, as well as Chairlady of the Ilmo Zikre Mosque, Hill Station, pledged to fund three additional students.
Located at 35H Grassfield, Lumley in Freetown, the new PEP Adult Literacy and Vocational Institute stands as a symbol of empowerment, compassion and private initiative in education. It embodies the spirit of giving back, fostering skills and promoting literacy as the foundation of national progress.
The Board of Trustees expressed profound gratitude to the Chief Minister for his participation and support, expressing hope that his office would help facilitate access to Government subvention for the sustainability of PEP’s literacy and vocational programs.
The Calabash Newspaper is Sierra Leone’s leading English‑language news platform—established in 2017 to deliver trusted coverage of politics, culture, health, and more to audiences both at home and abroad.
