Challenges of Teaching English Language as a Second Language in Sierra Leon

Purpose: English language is not the Language of anyone and no one owns proprietary right over English language not even Britain neither America. The Language has today gained global relevance and it is by far the most widely used Language in the world. The teaching and learning of English are important in Sierra Leone due to its status. English in Sierra Leone is a Second language and it is our official language. It is the Language of the Government, Parliament and the Court. It is the Language that is used in our schools, colleges and universities. It is the Language of instruction in academic institutions. It is a compulsory discipline for secondary education in Sierra Leone. It is compulsory in the first- and second-year levels of tertiary education according to the Tertiary Education Commission policy in the Country. However, the standard of teaching English in Sierra Leone has fallen drastically and the need to examine the challenges of teaching English language as a second language is eminent. Materials and Methods: The Research adopted a mixed method. The use of this methodology plays out in maintaining the validity and reliability of the Research. Findings: The Research shows that the lack of teaching proficiency by the teachers is the most relevant challenge that faces the teaching of English in Sierra Leone. This was seconded by lack of structured department and thereafter the negligence of the Government of Sierra Leone. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Research recommends that the Government should encourage citizens to study and master the Discipline at tertiary levels through the provision of scholarships and other facilities. Besides, the Government and other stakeholders in education need to invest in the teaching of English language through professional training, provision of learning materials amongst others.