By Mariama Bundu
In a vibrant display of intellect and patriotism, students from eight secondary schools in Bo District competed in an engaging Quiz and Debate Competition organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education on Monday, October 13, 2025. The event, which formed part of activities marking this year’s Civic Day Series, sought to promote civic consciousness, critical thinking, and youth engagement in national development.
The Bo District auditorium buzzed with excitement as young scholars demonstrated their knowledge of governance, civic duty, and current affairs. The initiative reflected the Ministry’s broader goal of nurturing responsible citizenship among young people — encouraging them to see themselves as active participants in Sierra Leone’s democratic and developmental processes.
Welcoming the participants, Resident Minister for the Southern Region, Mr. John Abu, lauded the Ministry for organizing such an intellectually stimulating program. He described it as an innovative approach to civic education that combines learning with competition, helping students not only understand their rights and responsibilities but also develop the confidence to articulate their views on national issues.
“This competition is more than a contest — it’s a platform for our young people to engage meaningfully with national development themes,” Mr. Abu stated. “It allows them to showcase their potential while deepening their understanding of civic values, governance, and leadership. These are the future leaders of Sierra Leone, and platforms like this help to shape their mindset toward national service.”
Eight prominent schools participated in the competition: Queen of the Rosary, St. Andrew Secondary School, SOS Hermann Gmeiner International School, Ahmadiyya Muslim Secondary School, Christ the King College, Bo Commercial Secondary School, Methodist High School, and Kate McGrath School.
The quiz segment tested students’ knowledge of civic education, national symbols, Sierra Leone’s constitution, and general current affairs. After two competitive rounds, Jestina Smith of Queen of the Rosary School emerged victorious with an impressive 9 points, earning the title of Quiz Champion 2025.
The debate session, however, proved to be the highlight of the event. Over three thrilling rounds, contestants passionately debated issues that mirror Sierra Leone’s real-life challenges and policy priorities. Topics included “The Importance of a New Constitution,” “Citizen Participation in the 2026 National Census,” and “The Role of Mobile Phones and Artificial Intelligence in Examinations.”
The grand finale tackled one of the most topical national discussions: “Should the Government Prioritize Free Quality Education or the Feed Salone Program?” — a debate that captured the audience’s full attention. Arguing for the prioritization of agriculture, Mustapha Fambulleh of Methodist High School delivered a persuasive presentation that earned him 29 points and the top prize. His runner-up, Haja Mariama Mansaray of Kate McGrath School, scored 27 points with an equally compelling argument in favor of education.
Judges praised the contestants for their eloquence, research depth, and ability to connect their arguments with Sierra Leone’s socio-economic realities. They also highlighted the competition’s role in cultivating leadership, public speaking, and analytical skills among young people.
At the close of the ceremony, the winners and runners-up received cash prizes and educational materials, including school bags and exercise books. The Ministry emphasized that such incentives are designed not only to reward excellence but also to motivate students to remain engaged in civic learning and community service.
The event also underscored the government’s commitment to advancing human capital development, one of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s flagship priorities. Through programs like Free Quality Education, Feed Salone, and continuous civic education initiatives, the government aims to equip young Sierra Leoneans with the skills and mindset necessary to build a progressive and self-reliant nation.
The Bo Civic Day Quiz and Debate ended on a celebratory note, with students, teachers, and community members applauding the Ministry of Information and Civic Education for bringing learning to life. For many, it was more than a competition — it was a reminder that civic knowledge is the foundation of good citizenship and that the voices of young people remain vital to Sierra Leone’s democratic journey.
