Music awards? TikTok awards? Yes. But has Sierra Leone ever had a reputable awarding event dedicated to recognizing individual and institutional excellence in education? The National Education Champions Award (NECA), scheduled for 7th February 2026, fills that gap.
Over the years, NECA has emphasized the importance of recognizing and valuing key players and contributors to the country’s education sector. The award was pioneered by Dr. Justice Ganawah, PhD, whose vision to celebrate excellence and impact across Sierra Leone’s academic landscape has made NECA the country’s leading education awards platform. Through his leadership, NECA has become synonymous with merit-based recognition, celebrating those shaping the nation’s academic future.
The third edition of NECA introduces the Resilience Award, honoring persons with disabilities who have academically excelled. With the 2026 theme, “Honouring Excellence, Inspiring Generation,” this new category underscores the award’s commitment to inclusivity while continuing its tradition of recognizing achievement.
Since its inception, NECA has consistently honored national figures whose contributions have shaped education in Sierra Leone. The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Professor Joe A. D. Alie in the first edition and to Professor Osman Alimamy Sankoh (Mallam O) in the second edition, highlighting the award’s dedication to celebrating lifelong impact.
The third edition maintains its established categories, recognizing excellence across learners, institutions, and the broader education ecosystem. Core award categories for 2026 include Best NPSE Candidate, Best BECE Candidate, Best WASSCE Candidate, and Best Graduating Students across public and private universities. Additional awards will honor organizations contributing to improved learning outcomes, access and inclusion, infrastructure development, and research.
The event will take place at Bintumani Hotel, Aberdeen, Freetown, starting at 5:30 PM, featuring a red carpet hosted by AYV, professional anchoring by Phebean Swill, live performances by the St. Edward’s Jazz Band, and premium hospitality. Attendance packages include: Table for 4 – SLE 15,000; Table for 6 – SLE 25,000; Platinum Ticket – SLE 5,000; Gold Ticket – SLE 2,500; Silver Ticket – SLE 1,500; and Bronze Ticket – SLE 750.
NECA 2026 is powered by the distinguished Mamie Mariama Justice Ganawah Education Foundation (MaMJGEF), a foundation committed to promoting educational excellence and inclusion across Sierra Leone. By attending, guests will celebrate the country’s brightest academic achievers, witness history with the introduction of inclusive awards, network with top educators and institutions, and experience a premium red carpet ceremony.
With its strong track record of merit-based recognition, NECA 2026 promises to honor excellence and inspire a new generation of learners, educators, and institutions across Sierra Leone.
Dr. Justice Ganawah Leads NECA 2026, Celebrating Sierra Leone’s Best
