By Politico Staff Writer
Gracing International Day of Education, President Julius Maada Bio has motivated school-going children to focus on their education, describing his school days and education journey with high standards and discipline.
The four-day celebration which started on the 22nd of January, 2024 officially opened on the theme: “Learning for lasting peace.”
In his statement, President Bio noted that since he became President of Sierra Leone in 2018, his administration embraced human capital development compounded with his vision of seeing Sierra Leonean children have access to education. He recalled his early school days at the Government Secondary School, saying he was not a troublemaker and always chose the path of peace even as a teenager.
He stated that with his high standard of conduct, he was selected as a prefect for discipline when in the sixth form before he later received the prestigious Principal’s friends for being the best-behaved boy in Bo School.
He said that last year Sierra Leone was ranked the most peaceful country in West Africa and the third most peaceful in Africa by the Global Peace Index, urging Sierra Leoneans to live together irrespective of differences.
The President affirmed that the communities had played a pivotal role in shaping society, adding that an educated society accepts diversity, opinion, and identity.
"As we reflect on our journey, let us remember that education is not merely a tool for individual advancement. I am building a society where every child is given the opportunity to learn," he ended.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Mayor of Bo City Council, Kobba Musa said the government has made commendable strides towards education in recent years, adding that the gathering symbolizes the importance placed on Education as a key driver for sustainable development and harmony. He stated that investing in free and quality education is to lay the foundation for a society where individuals are empowered with the skills, knowledge, and values needed to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
"Through the free and quality education, we have witnessed an upsurge in literacy rates, with more children than ever before, gaining the ability to read and write, think critically as well as passing public examination," he said.
He reiterated that education is no longer a privilege reserved for a few but a right granted to every eager mind.
Representing the development partners, Rahman from the World Bank said he was pleased to be part of the Celebration of the Education Week in Sierra Leone. He said he sees the government investment in education and that students should enhance the government’s efforts for access to quality education and training.
He disclosed that the World Bank is currently supporting two educational projects in the country.
The education week ends today, 26th January, 2024.
Copyright © 2024 Politico (26/01/24)
