By Foday Moriba Conteh

UK-based Sierra Leonean philanthropist, Catherine Okrafo-Smart (née Aubee) ,is set to commission the newly completed Peninsula Education Project Institute on Thursday, November 6, 2025, in what is being hailed as a major milestone in her decade-long mission to combat illiteracy and empower communities along the Peninsula.

Founded in 2015, the Peninsula Education Programme (PEP) began as a modest adult literacy project with two classrooms built from Catherine Okrafo-Smart’s personal savings and pension funds. That humble effort grew into a state-of-the-art educational and vocational training centre featuring a community hall and six vocational skills workshops all fully financed by her personal resources and charitable support from partners in the United Kingdom.

Speaking exclusively to this medium ahead of the commissioning ceremony, Mrs. Catherine Okrafo-Smart reflected on her journey of purpose and perseverance.

“When I retired in 2014, I knew I wanted to give back to my homeland by addressing the high illiteracy rate,” she said. “Every brick, every structure here was built from my own resources and faith in God. I believe that education is the foundation for independence, dignity and sustainable development.”

She expressed gratitude to her daughter Rachel, her London Anglican Church community and the Board of Trustees including Dr. Nemata Majeks-Walker, Ambassador Ebun Aforo, Jenneh Amara-Bangali and Olagbemide Brainerd for their guidance and commitment. She also commended the YSLEEP Charity for donating a water well that now benefits the institute and the wider community.

In preparation for the commissioning, a high-powered delegation from the Board, led by Dr. Nemata Majeks-Walker, paid a courtesy visit to the Chief Minister, Dr. Moinina David Sengeh, who played a key role in supporting the project’s early development during his tenure as Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education.

The Chief Minister, who will deliver the Keynote Address at Thursday’s commissioning, described Mrs. Okrafo-Smart’s contribution as a “powerful demonstration of radical inclusion and citizen-led development.”

“Catherine’s story is one of vision, sacrifice and national pride,” he said. “Her work shows how one person’s determination can transform entire communities.”

The commissioning ceremony is expected to attract Government officials, community leaders, educators and residents from across the Peninsula. The new institute will serve as a hub for adult literacy, vocational training and community development, providing free education and practical skills that promote self-reliance and economic growth.

Mrs. Okrafo-Smart concluded by urging others to join the cause:

“Please sponsor a learner. Help someone gain a skill, transform their lives and contribute to a stronger Sierra Leone. Together, we can build a nation where education is truly for all.” https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/uk-based-philanthropist-catherine-okrafo-smart-to-commission-new-peninsula-education-project-institute/