TSC Introduces Mandatory Teacher Licensing Fees in Line with AU Standards
By: Reginald Brian Ojukutu Sawyerr
The Sierra Leone Teaching Service Commission (SLTSC) on 26th March 2026 announced the introduction of mandatory licensing fees for teachers across the country, in a move aimed at strengthening professionalism within the education sector. The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Commission’s office on 7 Priscilla Street in Freetown, where key stakeholders outlined the purpose and implications of the new policy.
According to the press statement, which was delivered by the Secretary of the Commission, Sorie I. Turay, the new fee structure takes immediate effect and is in line with provisions in the TSC Act, 2011 and the Education Act, 2023.
He outlined the various categories of licensing fees, noting that teachers will now be required to pay Le300 for the licensing examination, while fees for issuance and renewal of licenses range from Le250 for new teachers to Le50 for distinguished teachers. He emphasized that the initiative forms part of the broader National Teacher Policy (2020), aimed at improving teaching standards and ensuring quality education nationwide.
Speaking at the press conference, Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Lans Kelfala, clarified that the new regulations are not intended to place additional burden on teachers. Instead, he noted that the move is necessary for Sierra Leone to align with African Union (AU) standards and best practices in the teaching profession.
He stressed that teacher licensing is now a mandatory requirement for all educators, both in public and private institutions, and that no teacher will be recruited into public service without successfully passing the licensing examination.
Public Relations Manager, Jamie Victory Sankoh, highlighted that the purpose of the press conference was to clearly inform teachers and the general public about the changes, address concerns, and ensure transparency in the implementation process. He added that the Commission has also introduced an online practice platform to support teachers in preparing for the licensing examinations, including mock tests and study materials.
The Commission further revealed that although three cohorts of teachers previously undertook the licensing exams free of charge under the Free Education Project between 2024 and 2025, the introduction of fees is necessary to ensure sustainability. Teachers who fail to meet the required 50 percent pass mark will be required to pay again to retake the examination.
The SLTSC assured teachers that at least one month’s notice will be given ahead of each examination, with clear guidelines on payment procedures, exam bookings, and venues across all 16 districts. Education stakeholders and the general public have been urged to support the initiative, which the Commission believes will significantly enhance the quality and credibility of the teaching profession in Sierra Leone.
The Commission concluded by reiterating its commitment to building a stronger education system under the guiding principle: “Better Teachers, Stronger Nation.”
