By: Mohamed Sahr
Dr. David Moinina Sengeh has assured of improving citizens’ engagement during the launch of the Draft National Civic Education Strategy and associated policies at a high-level dialogue held at the New Brookfields Hotel, Freetown.
Dr. Sengeh said the initiative aims to enhance citizens’ engagement through digital citizenship, media and information literacy and improved access to public services were centered on several key policies such as the National Information and Media Policy, the National Records and Archive Policy, and the National Film Policy.
He called for a transformative approach to civic education, adding that it brings a compelling need to unlearn outdated methods of teaching and engaging with civic matters. He said understanding and integrating the country’s history, culture, and traditions are crucial for advancing civic education in Sierra Leone.
Chief Minister said the strategies would be taken to cabinet inasmuch as it has the potential to shape some outdated laws such as the 1965 Archives Act that should not be in existence in this 21st century.
“When we discuss these strategies and policies, we must understand the privilege and opportunities. that are at hand for us to shape the future and most importantly the today of our country because change has to happen. Progress and modernization are not bad things, so I entreat you all so we can dialogue and engage around it,” he affrmed.
Dr. Sengeh encouraged Sierra Leoneans to protect the symbolism of cotton tree, noting that it relates to the nation’s history, storytelling and values the respective communities in Sierra Leone.
He mentioned that the aspect of radical inclusion which formed part of the strategy stating that radical inclusion prioritizes justice and equality irrespective of tribe and region.
Chief Minister expressed support for the new policies which align with the fundamental of the national development plan, as part of President Bio’s vision to strengthening justice and equality for Sierra Leoneans.
Chernor Bah, Minister of Information and Civic Education outlined the core pillars of the strategy during his presentation, highlighting objectives such as increased national participation and cohesion, food security (Feed Salone), climate awareness and justice (Clean Salone), health improvement (Heal Salone), and digital literacy (Digital Salone).
Minister Bah reflected his perceptions from research on civic education practices in countries like Turkey, China, Morocco, and Rwanda in order to ensure effective monitoring of the strategy.
He said the Ministry would establish a Steering Committee (SC) comprising youth, civil society representatives, religious leaders, and other key stakeholders. “The committee will oversee the implementation using a Monitoring Matrix and an activity tracker to monitor progress monthly,” he said.
Minister of Communication assured that an annual internal and public evaluation of the strategy would be conducted to expedite the process.
Professor Joe A. D. Alie outlined the need to reframe and understand Sierra Leone’s history independently of Western interpretations.
“We must reassess and adapt our historical narratives to fit our realities,” he said, stressing that a robust understanding of history is essential for national development.
Madam Kenyeh Barlay, Minister of Planning and Economic Development emphasized on the need for extending civic education beyond schools and colleges as it offers essential opportunity for Sierra Leoneans. She added that makes provision for the orientation of civic values, which enshrines into the country’s medium-term national development plan.
