By Abdul Kamara

The Bo Civic Day Series got off to an energetic start on Monday, 13th October 2025, at the De Wizard Hall along Dembala Road in Bo, drawing hundreds of students, teachers, and civic enthusiasts together to celebrate youth engagement and national pride.

Organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, the event showcased the talents of young people from different schools across Bo District in a spirited civic knowledge competition designed to promote patriotism and awareness of national values.

After a series of challenging rounds, Jestina Smith of Queens of the Rosary Secondary School (QRS) emerged as the overall champion, earning loud applause and cheers from the crowd. Tahiar Ahmadiyya Junior Secondary School took second place, while Christ the King’s College (CKC) student Mathew Kojor secured third position. Bo Commercial Junior Secondary School followed closely in fourth place.

The atmosphere in the hall was electric as students, parents, and community members rooted for their schools. Many commended the Ministry for creating a platform that allowed young people to express their understanding of civic responsibility and their role in nation-building.

Visibly emotional after her victory, Jestina thanked the Ministry and her school for their support. “This competition has opened my eyes to what it truly means to be a responsible citizen,” she said. “I’m grateful to my teachers and classmates for their encouragement.”

Officials from the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, along with education and local council representatives, attended the event. They praised the participants for their excellent performances and reiterated their commitment to promoting civic education across Sierra Leone.

A teacher from Christ the King’s College, Mr. Emmanuel Musa, described the competition as a valuable experience for students. “It’s not just about winning; it’s about learning how to contribute meaningfully to society,” he said.

Representing the Ministry, Madam Marian Magdalena Bangura expressed joy at the students’ enthusiasm and reaffirmed the government’s dedication to strengthening civic consciousness among young people. “When young citizens understand their civic duties, we lay the groundwork for unity, democracy, and progress,” she noted.

Parents and community leaders also praised the initiative, calling for similar programs in other districts. “It’s refreshing to see our young people this engaged in learning about their country,” said community leader Foday Mansaray.

The Bo Civic Day Series ended in celebration, with students and teachers posing for photos with the winners. Many attendees hoped the programme would become a yearly tradition, inspiring more young people to embrace civic responsibility and national pride.

Through initiatives like this, the Ministry of Information and Civic Education continues to strengthen civic learning and nurture a generation of informed and active Sierra Leoneans.