Bright Light Projects Sierra Leone (BLP-SL) proudly celebrated the graduation of participants from the April–May 2026 Free Basic Computer Skills Training Program during a Certificate Presentation Ceremony held at the BLP office in Makeni.
Organized in partnership with Youth Action for Sustainable Development Sierra Leone (YAD-SL), the training forms part of Digital Futures Sierra Leone (DFSL), Bright Light Projects’ flagship initiative dedicated to promoting digital inclusion, strengthening digital literacy, and preparing young people with the skills needed to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world.
The April–May cohort enrolled 20 participants, with 17 successfully completing the training and 15 meeting all graduation requirements to receive certificates. The graduating class comprised 4 women and 11 men, reflecting BLP’s continued commitment to expanding opportunities for youth through practical digital education.
This latest cohort builds on the success of BLP’s first Free Basic Computer Skills Training Program conducted in Kamabai, Bombali District, in 2025, where 88 participants received introductory digital skills training. Together, these initiatives demonstrate Bright Light Projects’ growing investment in equipping communities across Northern Sierra Leone with the knowledge and confidence to participate in the digital economy.
During the one-month training, participants received practical instruction in:
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Publisher
- Internet and Email Applications
- Essential Digital Literacy Skills
Closing the Digital Skills Gap
Speaking during the ceremony, Samuel Alpha Thoronka, Bright Light Projects Sierra Leone’s Country Coordinator, emphasized that many students, teachers, and young people continue to face significant barriers in accessing practical digital skills.
He noted that Digital Futures Sierra Leone was established to help close this gap by providing free, community-based computer training that equips participants with skills essential for education, employment, entrepreneurship, and lifelong learning.
“Digital literacy is no longer a luxury—it is a necessity. By investing in digital skills today, we are investing in the future of our young people and the future development of Sierra Leone.”
A Graduate’s Perspective
For many participants, the training has already made a tangible difference.
Kaba Mansaray, a student at Ernest Bai Koroma University, described the program as a “game changer,” explaining that the practical computer skills he acquired will significantly support his academic work, particularly as he completes his university thesis.
His experience reflects the growing demand among students for practical digital competencies that extend beyond the classroom and prepare them for higher education and future careers.
Government Support
The ceremony was also attended by Mr. Alex Koroma, Deputy Assistant Director at the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE), Bombali District, who commended Bright Light Projects for investing in digital education.
He underscored the importance of digital literacy in today’s world, noting that technology skills have become a gateway to educational success, employment, innovation, and national development. He encouraged young people to continue developing their digital competencies as Sierra Leone advances its digital transformation agenda.
Building Sierra Leone’s Digital Future
Through Digital Futures Sierra Leone, Bright Light Projects is helping bridge the digital divide by providing free, community-based digital education that improves educational outcomes, enhances employability, encourages entrepreneurship, and supports the objectives of Sierra Leone’s National Digital Learning Strategy (2025–2030).
As Bright Light Projects prepares future cohorts, DFSL will continue expanding opportunities for students, teachers, job seekers, and aspiring entrepreneurs across Bombali District and other underserved communities.
Program at a Glance
| Indicator | Result |
| Participants Enrolled | 20 |
| Successfully Completed Training | 17 |
| Graduated and Certified | 15 |
| Female Graduates | 4 |
| Male Graduates | 11 |
| Previous DFSL Training (Kamabai, 2025) | 88 Participants |
| Training Duration | 1 Month |
| Implementing Organization | Bright Light Projects Sierra Leone |
| Partner | Youth Action for Sustainable Development Sierra Leone (YAD-SL) |
About Digital Futures Sierra Leone (DFSL)
Digital Futures Sierra Leone (DFSL) is Bright Light Projects’ flagship digital inclusion initiative in Sierra Leone. The program equips students, teachers, job seekers, and underserved communities with practical digital skills, promotes innovation and entrepreneurship, and expands access to technology as a pathway to education, employment, and sustainable development.
