By Hassan Gbassay Koroma
President Julius Maada Bio officially launched the Sierra Leone Civic Education Strategy for 2024-2030 on December 11th, calling on the nation’s citizens to prioritize the country’s interests above all else and work together towards national development.
Speaking at the Miatta Conference Hall, the President emphasized that the collective responsibility of all Sierra Leoneans is crucial in shaping the country’s future.
“We must always seek the overall interest of the country because the country is bigger than any individual,” President Bio said. He described the launch of the strategy not just as an event, but as a movement to foster national cohesion and promote a unified effort toward progress.
Highlighting the importance of civic education, he noted that it had laid the foundation for peace and national unity since 2018, with the goal of ensuring that all citizens could live in harmony.
The strategy, according to the President, underscores the need for national cohesion and peace, with civic education teaching citizens the impact of their actions, whether positive or negative.
“The government alone cannot do it. Together, as Sierra Leoneans, we can achieve development. We must embrace democracy and work towards a better, brighter future for the nation,” he stated. He urged citizens to become agents of change, peace, and development, emphasizing that national progress is built on unity, regardless of region, tribe, or culture.
Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, emphasized that peace, like war, is something that can be crafted. He noted that President Bio’s focus on civic education has led to the creation of institutions designed to enhance citizens’ understanding of their civic rights and responsibilities.
Bah outlined that the strategy aims to educate every Sierra Leonean about their civic duties, encourage national pride, and promote environmental cleanliness.
The Minister also discussed the development of a unified government communications strategy that will keep citizens informed about the government’s progress, its goals, and its efforts to reach out to the public.
Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis, highlighted her Ministry’s efforts to promote Sierra Leone’s rich cultural heritage and underscored the importance of preserving the nation’s traditions.
She emphasized that every citizen has a role to play in upholding the country’s culture and values.
Representing the UNDP, Tanzalia Sankoh noted that the Civic Education Strategy is a collaborative effort, developed in consultation with various segments of society, including youth, women, community leaders, and civil society organizations.
She explained that the strategy aims to educate citizens on their rights and responsibilities and prepare them to contribute actively to the country’s development.
“The strategy is a critical step towards a more inclusive and democratic Sierra Leone,” Sankoh said. “By focusing on pillars like Love Salone, Feed Salone, Clean Salone, Heal Salone, Digitize Salone, and Salone for We All, we are not just educating citizens but also empowering them to actively participate in civic life and contribute to the nation’s development.”
The launch of the Sierra Leone Civic Education Strategy marks a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to build a more engaged and informed citizenry, laying the groundwork for continued national progress.
