By: Hajaratu S. Bangura
The Chairman of the National Council for Civic Education and Democracy (NaCCED), Joseph Munda Bindi, on Tuesday, 3rd February 2026, outlined the institution’s key priorities for civic education in 2026, emphasizing the need to strengthen patriotism, civic responsibility, and public participation across Sierra Leone.
Speaking at a special edition of the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MOICE) Weekly Press Conference held at the Bonthe City Council Hall, Chairman Bindi said civic education remains central to building a peaceful, democratic, and development-oriented society. He stressed that nurturing national values must begin early, particularly within schools and tertiary institutions.
“Civic education is about teaching our people patriotism, nationalism, and service to country,” Bindi said. “We must start civic education from schools so that young people grow up understanding their rights and responsibilities.”
As part of NaCCED’s 2026 strategy, the Chairman announced plans to establish civics clubs in schools and tertiary institutions, aimed at grooming young civic champions committed to national service and democratic values. He explained that these clubs would complement classroom learning by promoting active citizenship, leadership, and community engagement.
Chairman Bindi also highlighted the importance of civic education in relation to key national processes scheduled for 2026, including voting exercises, the national census, and discussions surrounding the amendment of the 1991 Constitution. According to him, public awareness and understanding are critical to ensuring transparency, credibility, and broad-based participation in these processes.
“The 2026 census, voting processes, and constitutional review require an informed and engaged public,” he noted, adding that effective civic education would enable citizens to make informed decisions and actively contribute to national development.
He further emphasized the ongoing collaboration between NaCCED and the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, noting that civic engagement initiatives must be tailored to local realities. He described Bonthe Island’s unique geographical and social characteristics as requiring customized civic education strategies to effectively reach communities.
Concluding his address, Chairman Bindi reaffirmed NaCCED’s commitment to strengthening democratic culture nationwide, stating that “civic education is the foundation for peace, good governance, and national development.”