By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a major step toward sustainable energy solutions at the school, the St. Joseph Secondary School Alumnae Association, Southeastern Chapter (USA), has officially donated a 20KVA solar power system and four streetlights including  two security lights equipped with cameras to their alma mater. The official handing-over ceremony, aimed at improving learning conditions and ensuring uninterrupted electricity, was held on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at the school premises on Brookfields in Freetown.

In her declaration of purpose, Emelia Lawson, Vice President II of the Association, underscored the initiative’s importance, describing it as a symbol of unity, commitment and dedication from former pupils to their alma mater.

"This donation is more than an act of generosity; it is a profound expression of love and loyalty that ex-pupils hold for St. Joseph Secondary School. It ensures that current and future students have a safe and conducive learning environment," Emelia Lawson stated.

The project was spearheaded by the Southeastern Chapter of the alumni association in the United States, whose contributions played a pivotal role in its success. According to Emelia Lawson, the solar-powered streetlights will enhance security on campus, allowing pupils and staff to move safely even after dark.

"As we officially hand over these solar lights today, let this moment remind us of what we can achieve when we come together with a shared purpose. May St. Joseph Secondary School continue to shine bright, just as this light will illuminate its pathways," Emelia Lawson concluded.

June Driscol, President of the St. Joseph Alumnae Association, Southeastern Chapter USA, emphasized the significance of the project in fostering academic excellence.

“This solar project demonstrates our strong desire to improve the quality of education and teaching at our alma mater. Access to electricity is a crucial factor in the success and development of any school community. By equipping St. Joseph Secondary School with a reliable solar energy system, we are laying the foundation for quality education, digital learning and a more conducive environment for pupils and teachers,” she stated.

The 20KVA solar system comprises four all-in-one 5KVA solar generators, capable of powering the entire school, including classrooms, laboratories, the library and administrative offices. In addition, four solar streetlights, two of which are equipped with security cameras, were installed to enhance safety and security on the school premises.

The project was fully funded by the Southeastern Chapter USA, with funds raised through extensive alumni contributions and sponsorships. The implementation was carried out by Mimi Solar, LLC, a Sierra Leonean-owned solar technology company. June Driscol acknowledged the contributions of Francis Thomas, Co-founder and CFO of Mimi Solar and his team for their expertise in installing the system.

Addressing the school’s pupils and staff, June Driscol urged them to take ownership of the project and ensure its proper maintenance. “We want you to take care of the system as if it is your own. While our alumnae association will continue to provide financial support for maintenance, it is your responsibility to protect and preserve this invaluable asset,” she said.

She further stressed that the solar system has eliminated the school’s dependence on the national power grid, ensuring uninterrupted power supply. “The frequent power cuts have hindered the school's progress. As former students, we are determined to see St. Joseph's rise again as a beacon of education in Sierra Leone,” June Driscol added.

On his part, Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, reiterated the Government’s commitment to creating a safe and conducive learning environment for pupils.

He commended the Ex-Pupils Association for their unwavering support in enhancing the school’s infrastructure, emphasizing that quality education extends beyond access to learning, stating that a secure school environment fosters confidence among pupils, encourages attendance and ensures that teaching and learning take place without disruption.

“This initiative aligns with the Government’s vision for education, where schools are not only centers of academic excellence but also safe spaces for every child,” he said. “By providing solar-powered security lights, the Ex-Pupils Association is not just illuminating the physical environment of St. Joseph’s Secondary School but also lighting the path for future generations to learn in safety and security.”

Francis Thomas, Co-Founder and Chief Financial Officer of Mimi Solar, underscored the company’s commitment to combating energy poverty. “Our goal is simple: cure energy poverty. When you cure energy poverty, you have gone a long way in curing overall poverty,” Francis Thomas underscored.

Founded and operated by Sierra Leoneans both locally and in the diaspora, Mimi Solar has been a leader in developing tailored solar energy solutions. Francis Thomas shared the personal story behind the company’s name, explaining that it was inspired by Miata, nicknamed Mimi, the niece of Mimi Solar’s CEO and Co-Founder. He recounted how a power outage during a visit to Pujehun in 2010 inspired the CEO to develop a solar generator prototype, which later became the foundation for Mimi Solar’s mission.

“Mimi’s cry for her father to fix the power issue stuck with us,” Francis Thomas said. “That experience led to the design of a solar generator prototype, which we later developed into a full-fledged solar power solution.”

Since its establishment, Mimi Solar has expanded its reach, manufacturing its own products and installing systems in various locations, including Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Liberia and Guinea etc. “All Mimi Solar products must have our name on them. We design, manufacture, install and, most importantly, we maintain. Maintenance is key to ensuring that valuable assets do not dwindle,” Francis Thomas revealed.

The newly installed streetlights at St. Joseph Secondary School include two security lights equipped with cameras, strategically placed to monitor high-risk areas on campus. “Bad people do not like light,” Francis Thomas remarked, emphasizing the role of lighting in enhancing security.

His Grace Bishop Edward Jamba Charles, the Archbishop of Freetown, commended the St. Joseph Ex-Pupils Association for their commitment to the development of their alma mater.

“This is a moment of grace that I cannot thank God enough for,” said Archbishop Charles. “On behalf of the Archdiocese of Freetown and the Board of Governors, I extend my sincere gratitude to June Driscol, President of the Southeastern Chapter of the St. Joseph Ex-Pupils Alumni Association and her entire membership for this invaluable contribution.”

The Archbishop acknowledged the pressing issue of power outages in Freetown and beyond, emphasizing how this solar installation will provide security and a reliable electricity supply for pupils and teachers.

“This project could not have come at a better time when our city is experiencing power outages,” he noted. “With this complete solar energy system, St. Joseph Secondary School now has 24-hour uninterrupted lighting, setting a positive example for other institutions.”

The event concluded with the formal handover of the solar system to Archbishop Edward Tamba Charles, marking a new milestone in the school’s transition to sustainable energy.